Face acid, a game-changer that you could use in your skincare routine. Though it sounds intimidating, it could be one of the most beneficial ingredients for your skin when it is used correctly. There are a variety of acids available for your skin. For instance, Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid, Mandelic acid, and ferulic acid. You can spot acids in different forms of products like cleansers, toners, serums, and even face masks.
What is AHA?
So what is AHA exactly? AHA stands for alpha-hydroxy acids. They are water-soluble and derived from plants or animals. AHA works as a chemical exfoliant that will promote new skin cell regeneration. This explains why AHA is the star ingredient to improve aging signs. Other benefits include improving skin texture, brightening your complexion, reducing lines and wrinkles, and more.
Types of AHA
According to medical news, here are some examples of acids in the AHA family.
- glycolic acid, derived from sugarcane
- lactic acid, derived from dairy and fermented vegetables
- mandelic acid, derived from bitter almonds.
- tartaric acid, derived from fruits
- malic acid, derived from apples
- citric acid, derived from citrus fruits
Among all of the acids, glycolic acid and lactic acid are the most common acids found in skincare products.
Common Side Effects when Using AHA products
- peeling
- itching
- redness
- sun sensitivity
Unfortunately using AHA products could show some side effects, especially on dry skin. It depends on your skin type, but mild skin irritation is common. Side effects like redness, itching, peeling are common, especially for first-time users.
No matter what acids you are trying to incorporate into your skincare, always do a patch test to be safe. Other than that, you should always start with a low concentration of AHA to minimize the risk of getting irritation on your skin. Lastly, you can try to take breaks in between when you first started using face acid. You can use it twice weekly then slowly work your way up to build up your skin toleration.
Moisturizers that Pair Well with AHA products
We hand-picked the products below according to the common side effects of using AHA products. These products are excellent in moisturizing, calming, or repairing your skin from skin damage. All of the products below do not contain AHA or BHA to minimize the risk of further irritation.
Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream
Aestura might not be a well-known brand in the US but it is actually quite popular in Korea. This product claims to relieve dry skin and strengthen your skin barrier at the same time. It comes in tube packaging and contains 80ml of products in it. Even though the texture of the cream is slightly thick but it blends on your skin very well.
Aestura Atobarrier 365 cream is perfect for you if your skin is constantly experiencing peeling, redness, and itching. It contains a number of beneficial ingredients such as glycerin, squalane, Tocopherol, and Allantoin. Glycerin is a humectant that will draw water to the skin while squalane act as an emollient to retain the moisture in the skin. On top of that, Allantoin and Tocopherol reduce inflammation and protect skin from further damage.
Melvita Calendula Oil
Melvita has one of the best formulas when it comes to face oil (IMO). All of their ingredients are from Organic Farming. Calendula has been used as a medicine traditionally to treat menstrual cramps, ulcers, and sore throats. Thanks to their strong anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, they are excellent use to calm and soothe redness and itchiness on the skin too.
This product only contains two ingredients which are Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil and Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract. Soybean Oil offers deep and long-lasting moisture to your skin. On the other hand, calendula extract will soothe your skin and promotes healing.
This oil has a light texture that will absorb quickly into your skin. Apply 1-2 pumps on your fingertips and gently massage them into your skin. You can use it on your body and neck area too.
Etude House SoonJung Hydro Barrier Cream
Etude House SoonJung Hydro Barrier Cream is formulated with 92.2% plant-based ingredients and is free of 10 addictives. That being said, it is recommended for anyone that has irritated skin, sensitive skin, or weak skin.
It contains multiple skin soothing ingredients such as Panthenol, Allantoin, Madecassoside, and Camellia Sinensis leaf extract. All of the ingredients above accelerate wound healing and soothe sensitive skin. Moreover, it also contains glycerin and Propanediol that will boost skin hydration and keep skin moisturized even in the wintertime.
Always Use a Sunscreen
Sun sensitivity, also known as photosensitivity means increased skin sensitivity when your skin is exposed to UV rays. Using AHA products could increase skin’s sun sensitivity as they gently exfoliate your skin and speeds up skin cells regeneration which makes your skin more vulnerable to the sun. In other words, AHA products could reduce your skin’s natural defense and increase your risk of getting sun damage. Make sure you use sunscreen when using any AHA products to avoid burns.
Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30
We recommend this umbra sheer sunscreen from Drunk Elephant for everyday use. This sheer sunscreen does not contain harsh chemicals which makes it a perfect sunscreen to use when your skin is irritated.
In addition, this sunscreen contains a host of good ingredients including Sunflower Shoot Extract, Raspberry Seed Oil and Aloe Vera Leaf Extract that keep your skin moisturized and healthy while protecting you from harmful rays.
Source:
MedicalNews: Understanding AHA & BHA
Healthline: Everything about AHA
Skincancer: Photosensitivity & Your Skin
