AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
A family of water-soluble exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic and mandelic acid that work on the skin's surface to loosen dead cells and smooth texture.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a family of water-soluble exfoliating acids derived from foods like sugar cane, milk, and fruit. Because they are water-soluble, they work mainly on the skin's surface, loosening the bonds between dead surface cells so they shed more evenly. The result is a smoother-looking, brighter-feeling surface over time.
The most common AHAs differ mostly by molecule size. Glycolic acid is the smallest and most penetrating; lactic acid is a little gentler and also helps skin hold water; and mandelic acid has the largest molecule, so it works more slowly and tends to suit sensitive or reactive skin. You'll find AHAs in cleansers, toners, serums, and treatment pads, usually at lower strengths for daily-style use and higher strengths for professional treatments.
AHAs are worth understanding if your skin looks dull, feels rough, or has uneven texture. They pair well with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which help offset any dryness. Because freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to the sun, a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day is essential and it's wise to patch test and start with one lower-strength product a few times a week.
Honest limits: more exfoliation is not better. Over-doing acids can disrupt your skin barrier, leading to tightness, stinging, or redness most people only need to exfoliate one to three times a week. Avoid stacking several strong actives at once. If your skin feels raw, or a concern isn't settling with gentle, consistent care, it's worth speaking to a skincare professional.
The most common AHAs differ mostly by molecule size. Glycolic acid is the smallest and most penetrating; lactic acid is a little gentler and also helps skin hold water; and mandelic acid has the largest molecule, so it works more slowly and tends to suit sensitive or reactive skin. You'll find AHAs in cleansers, toners, serums, and treatment pads, usually at lower strengths for daily-style use and higher strengths for professional treatments.
AHAs are worth understanding if your skin looks dull, feels rough, or has uneven texture. They pair well with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which help offset any dryness. Because freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to the sun, a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day is essential and it's wise to patch test and start with one lower-strength product a few times a week.
Honest limits: more exfoliation is not better. Over-doing acids can disrupt your skin barrier, leading to tightness, stinging, or redness most people only need to exfoliate one to three times a week. Avoid stacking several strong actives at once. If your skin feels raw, or a concern isn't settling with gentle, consistent care, it's worth speaking to a skincare professional.
