Definition: AHA= Alpha Hydroxy Acid, a chemical exfoliating agent.
What it does: AHAs accelerate the rate at which dead skin sheds from the skin’s surface.
What are the benefits of using AHAs?
Due to it’s exfoliating nature, AHAs can help improve overall skin texture & tone. Thus, AHAs can certainly assist with hyperpigmentation of the skin including melasma and pesky resistant acne scars. AHA body lotions may also be a staple in the routine of individuals suffering from KP (Keratosis Pilaris) or those with unwanted spots due to sun damage.
Common side effects experienced by many: skin flushing & sensitivity, tingling/burning/itching sensation upon application that typically goes away within a few minutes.
Some individuals can be more sensitive to chemical exfoliants than others, and the percentage used with or without other actives or ingredients can also be a factor. Often, it’s best to start low and slow, minimize the use of other active ingredients (such as Retin-A/Retinols) in combination with your AHA, and begin by using it 1-2 times a week as tolerated. Rinse off masks or AHA cleansers are also often better tolerated by sensitive skin individuals due to the reduced contact time on the skin.
Keep in mind this information is based off my own personal research and experience using AHAs in my own routine, as someone with fairly sensitive and reactive skin. However, it is by no means a substitute for personalized advice from a board-certified dermatologist.
Here’s a few great videos by dermatologists on AHAs:
Dr. Maren Locke aka “The Budget Dermatologist”
Dr. Sam Ellis Explains Keratosis Pilaris (KP)
Dr. Dray on why you should use AHAs
I always encourage using a product that will both fit into your standing skincare routine & relevant to your skins sensitivity level.
Here’s some solid AHAs products I’ve used and enjoyed:
Disclaimer: Some products are affiliate links, when purchased I make a small commission at no cost to the buyer. I never recommend or promote any product I have not used & enjoyed, and all opinions are my own.
Masks:
Paul’s Choice 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel
Versed Doctor’s Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask
Cleansers:
L’Oreal Paris Skincare Revitalift Derm Intensives Gel Cleanser
Leave on Treatments:
Naturium Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Gel 10%
Drmtlgy L.A. Refining Serum (AHA & PHA)
Tingl by Drmtlgy (AHA, BHA, Lactic acid combination)
Disclaimer: I am not a physician. All articles are for informational purposes and based off personal experiences regarding the topic. Articles are not intended to treat or diagnose any conditions nor should they be taken as medical recommendations. Please consult your Doctor/Dermatologist for diagnosis or treatment. Individuals will experience treatments, procedures, and medications differently and your Doctor will determine if a treatment is right for you. Posts may contain affiliate links, for which I may receive a small compensation at no additional cost to the reader when a product is purchased. All opinions on products, treatments, and procedures are my own and based off personal experience. Photos used on the website and all social media accounts for femininefacets.com are either free for use stock images or taken by me unless otherwise stated. All content is written by me unless otherwise stated.