Over time, collagen and elastin fibers that give your skin its structure and firmness begin to break down. Smoking, sun exposure and other lifestyle habits can increase the rate at which these fibers break down---ultimately resulting in the development of wrinkles. In order to reduce the appearance of these skin folds and stimulate collagen growth, acids may be applied to the skin.
Function
Although different types of acids used to treat wrinkles exist, they all take on a similar function when applied to the skin. Their small molecules penetrate the pores and stimulate collagen growth, according to LaraChem. Also, they break down the chemical bonds that can bind dead skin cells to the skin, which can make wrinkles appear deeper than they are.
Types
A variety of acids can be applied in varying concentrations in order to stimulate collagen growth. Examples of acids used to treat wrinkles include tricholacetic acid, which penetrates the skin deeply to treat surface wrinkles, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Phenol is an acid applied only in clinical settings, but can treat deep facial wrinkles. Milder acid peels may involve the application of glycolic, lactic, salicylic or fruit acids, all of which belong to a category known as alpha hydroxy acids, according to Doc Shop.
Applications
Alpha hydroxy acids can be sold over-the-counter as an active ingredient in face washes, moisturizers and medicated pads, according to the Mayo Clinic. When applied over time, they work to fight wrinkles and encourage skin exfoliation. Higher concentrations of alpha hydroxy acids can be applied as a chemical peel, which should be performed at a dermatologist or esthetician's office. Chemical peels can also remove the outer layers of the skin in order to encourage new skin growth and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Phenol and trichloracetic acids are typically applied only as chemical peels because they penetrate so deeply, according to Doc Shop.
Considerations
Because applying acids to treat wrinkles exposes new and fresh skin, you may be more susceptible to sunburns, according to the Mayo Clinic. To combat this, you should wear a sunscreen while using these products and limit sun exposure to avoid irritating or damaging the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is especially true for phenol peels, which may temporarily reduce the skin's ability to tan as a protective way to absorb ultraviolet rays, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Also, remember that several applications may be required in order to see a reduction of wrinkles.
Side Effects
When applied as a daily cream, acids used to treat wrinkles can cause redness and irritation, according to the Mayo Clinic. Moisturizing the skin often can minimize these effects. For mild chemical peels, side effects may include redness, stinging and crusting, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Deeper chemical peels can result in crusting, flaking, scarring, pigment discoloration and infection. Discuss these effects carefully with your physician and take steps to minimize them.
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