Exfoliants
Beauty and skincare products often contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). These are chemical exfoliants that remove dead skin cells from your skin’s surface, potentially offering benefits like smoother skin and improved texture. However, they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
To identify products with AHAs or BHAs, check the ingredient list. Common AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and others. BHAs include salicylic acid and related ingredients.
Benefits of AHAs and BHAs include addressing fine lines, wrinkles, discolored skin, age spots, enlarged pores (for AHAs), and sun-damaged skin, and acne (for BHAs).
However, products with these ingredients can irritate your skin, causing redness and increasing the risk of sunburn for up to a week after discontinuation. It’s advisable to consult a dermatologist before using over-the-counter products with AHAs or BHAs to ensure safety and compatibility with any medications.
The concentration of AHAs should ideally be 10% or lower, and BHAs between 1% to 2% to reduce risks.To use AHAs or BHAs safely, apply a small amount to a small skin area first. Follow product instructions strictly and avoid using on babies or children. Daily application of broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 8% zinc oxide and SPF 30 is crucial.
Your doctor or dermatologist should determine if chemical exfoliation is suitable for your skin type and advise on the frequency. Mild chemical exfoliants are suitable for dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, while stronger ones are better for oily, thicker skin.
Avoid strong exfoliants if you have darker skin or have experienced dark spots after burns, bug bites, or acne, as they may worsen discoloration.When using a home chemical exfoliation product, apply it gently in small circular motions for about 30 seconds and rinse with lukewarm water. Apply moisturizer immediately to prevent skin dryness. Do not exfoliate areas with sunburns, open cut or wounds. When incorporating AHA and BHA products into your skincare routine, it’s important to choose complementary products to enhance their effectiveness and minimize the risk of irritation. Here are some products that pair well with AHA and BHA:
Hydrating Moisturizer:
AHA and BHA exfoliants can sometimes be drying, so a moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin can help maintain skin moisture balance.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3):
Niacinamide is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be beneficial when used alongside AHA and BHA, helping to reduce redness and irritation.
Antioxidant-rich Products:
Antioxidants such as green tea extract, resveratrol, or chamomile can provide additional protection against environmental damage and help soothe the skin.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum:
Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating ingredient that can be beneficial for maintaining skin moisture levels, especially when using exfoliating acids.
Ceramides:
Ceramides help strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. They can be particularly beneficial when using exfoliating acids to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Peptides:
Peptides support collagen production and can contribute to the overall firmness and elasticity of the skin. They work well in combination with AHA and BHA for anti-aging benefits.
Vitamin E:
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can work synergistically with other antioxidants to protect the skin from environmental damage.
Kojic Acid:
Kojic acid can be beneficial for addressing uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation, working alongside AHA and BHA to promote a brighter.
Some Great Exfoliants:
