What are Skin Care Acids?

When people think of acids, they often think of harmful or dangerous chemicals that can burn and damage the skin. But there is more to acids than that! Many of today's beauty products contain beneficial skin care acids that help heal and rejuvenate the skin. In precisely measured, controlled amounts, these acids help loosen the cells that hold the upper layers of skin together, allowing dead cells to fall off, revealing the new, healthy skin below. 

 What are Skincare Acids?

Skincare acids are an ingredient frequently used in exfoliation products. There are two basic categories of acids; alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). Some acids are stronger than others, and therefore, their use leads to quicker and more visible results.

AHAs are water-soluble acids that work primarily at the surface of the skin. They are an excellent option for addressing dull, rough skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines. Conversely, BHAs penetrate deep into clogged pores, making them a preferable ingredient in acne treatments. Some of the most common skincare acids include familiar products such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a well-known exfoliating acid. It can also help clear clogged pores, reducing the frequency of acne breakouts. Salicylic acid is found in cleansers, serums, and spot treatments to treat acne breakouts. Salicylic acid can be used as a peeling agent to treat acne scars, acne, sun damage, age spots, and melasma in higher concentrations. These stronger peels are safest for your skin and most effective when performed by a skilled skincare professional at Upkeep Med Spa.

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is the most popular alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) found in skin care products. Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and has the smallest molecule size of any other AHA products making it the most effective at entering the pores. Glycolic acid is an excellent exfoliant. It can also reduce the appearance, prevent acne, and even out skin tone and texture. Glycolic acid is used in higher concentrations in skin peels in a professional setting. Glycolic acid peels are sometimes performed in conjunction with microneedling or microdermabrasion to enhance the results of both procedures.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is found naturally in human skin. It helps the skin retain water, keeping your skin hydrated and plump. Like collagen and elastin, the amount of hyaluronic acid naturally occurring in the body decreases with age. Hyaluronic acid is found in many anti-aging skin care products, including serums, creams, masks, and peels. It is essential to keep in mind that hyaluronic acid does not work well with low pH acids, such as glycolic acid, as they tend to cancel each other out.

Choosing products that contain the “right” skincare acids for your skin may seem challenging as there are many on the market. The first step is to decide what you are trying to achieve with skincare treatments. A member of our experienced, professional team at Upkeep Med Spa can work with you to determine which products and treatments are best for your skin. Many of our facials and chemical peel treatments contain skin-improving skincare acids. To learn more about these treatments or any of our other aesthetic, injection, or body contouring procedures, contact us today to schedule a consultation.