The Benefits Of Aha For The Face

Alpha hydroxy acids, also known as AHAs, are natural acids derived from fruits like oranges and lemons, according to the Harvard Medical School. In facial skincare products, the acids are often listed as sugar cane extract, glycolic acid, malic acid, triple fruit acid or lactic acid. For the best results, the school recommends using a product with AHAs in concentrated levels of 10 percent or less. Since the acids make your skin more susceptible to the sun, wear a sunscreen whenever you use AHA-boosted creams or serums.

Exfoliation

Alpha hydroxy acids are chemical exfoliants, reports Harvard Medical School, and help to loosen and get rid of the dead skin cells on your skin's surface. The school says the acids' ability to exfoliate your cells is more effective than abrasive exfoliants like scrubs and cloths. Regular exfoliating helps keep your complexion naturally bright by preventing a build-up of dead skin cells which may dull your skin.

Skin Lightening

Sun damage, scars and other health problems can lead to hyperpigmentation and skin discolorations on your face. Although a cosmetic concealer can camouflage the discolorations, that doesn't correct your actual skin tone. Skincare expert Paula Begoun says alpha hydroxy acids can help to "inhibit melanin formation." This makes them a "formidable" method of removing discolorations that leave your skin tone dark, according to Begoun.

Improved Skincare Absorption

Surface debris and dead skin inhibit your skin's ability to absorb the maximum amount of active ingredients found in your skincare creams and serums. Since alpha hydroxy acids remove such surface deposits to expose the underlying cells, they can optimize your skin's absorption levels so you get the maximum results from your favorite skincare products.

Fewer Wrinkles

Alpha hydroxy acids can reduce the severity of surface lines and wrinkles for several reasons, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. First, the acids take off the top, damaged layer of skin, revealing less-damaged skin beneath and allowing for the regrowth of new skin cells. Second, the acids may enhance your body's production of collagen, the protein that plumps and firms the skin surface.