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Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s) are naturally occurring acids, derived from the sugars in particular plants. Several examples are Glycolic Acid (Sugar Cane), Lactic Acid (Milk), Citric Acid (Citrus Fruits), Tartaric Acid (Grapes), Malic Acid (apples) and Mandelic Acid (Bitter Almonds). These acids work to improve the skin, penetrating the outer (horny) layer of the skin and reaching the lower (dermis) layer. Alpha Hydroxy Acids also work by dissolving the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together, increasing cellular turnover, and sloughing off dull and rough skin on the surface.

Use of AHA products and medically-supervised chemical peels results in softer, smoother skin, faded wrinkles, lightened age spots, and decreased blemishes. AHA also improves the skins ability to retain moisture. Most of the skin’s moisture is lost through cracks of the dead skin cells on the outer layer. By removing the dead skin, moisture is retained more easily. Studies have also shown that AHA’s improve the skin’s barrier functions, helping to keep out unwanted substances such as dirt and pollutants.

There has been no proof that AHA’s increase sun sensitivity, but we recommend a sunblock with an SPF 15 or greater to help prevent further sun-related damage.

Beta Hydroxy Acids

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA’s) are a group of naturally occurring acids whose skin treatment properties are being rediscovered. Several common forms of BHA’s are salicylic acid, benzoic acid, and butyric acid. These acids work to exfoliate the skin, leaving behind fresh skin that is also smoother and softer than before. BHA’s work to increase cellular turnover. They also dissolve the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together in the top layers, allowing fresh skin cells beneath to emerge. BHA’s are known to improve age-related skin problems such as wrinkles, acne, age spots, blemishes, and skin unevenness. When used on a regular basis, they refresh the skin and clear away the dirt and oils that often cause acne eruptions.

Again, as with AHA’s, we recommend a sunblock with an SPF15 or greater when using products or treatments that contain BHA’s.

Structurally, Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids are similar in appearance. Their activities as well are similar; both are exfoliants. BHA’s, however, are believed to be less irritating to the skin than AHA’s. They are also more effective in preventing acne eruptions and smoothing the skin.

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