Acids in facial care are not a new trend - this type of treatments have been offered by beauty salons for a long time. What is new are acids in the cosmetics we use at home. Although the name "acid" itself sounds a bit scary, you should not be afraid of this type of products, and in fact it is worth trying them. A properly selected acid treatment will be good for basically every type of skin - oily skin, with imperfections and discolorations, but also mature skin with wrinkles will definitely benefit from it. However, before you buy a tonic, serum or cream, check what you need to know about acids!
WHAT ARE ACIDS AND HOW DO THEY WORK?
First, some basic information that will help you better understand why acids are good for the skin. Acids are compounds that weaken the bonds between skin cells, leading to exfoliation of its upper layers, thanks to which:
- The skin better absorbs beneficial ingredients from other cosmetics
- It starts repair processes - it begins to produce more collagen and elastin
- Scars and discolorations lighten
- Pores are unblocked - blackheads and blackheads are reduced
- Sebum secretion is reduced - the skin remains fresh longer
Of course, acid is different from acid to acid and the effects of the treatment ultimately depend on several factors, including its type, so...
WHAT TYPES OF ACIDS DO WE HAVE?
There are 3 types of acids: AHA, BHA and PHA, and each of these groups has slightly different characteristics. So check which one!
AHA ACIDS
That is alpha -hydroxy acids soluble in water . Recommended especially for mature, combination skin and those struggling with pigmentation changes. AHA acids include:
- GLYCOLIC ACID – because it has small particles, it can deeply penetrate the skin structure. This makes it especially useful for reducing discolorations and scars - including acne scars. The most visible effects will, of course, be obtained by undergoing professional treatments during which this acid is used in very high concentrations (up to 70%), but it is really worth using products containing lower concentrations because they not only maintain the effect, but also increase skin hydration and slow down the aging process. . It is the most frequently used acid in cosmetics, also because it is well tolerated. This acid is what you will find in our newest HALO tonic.
- MANDELIC ACID - a very delicate acid, which is one of the few that can also be used in spring and summer. It works well both in mature people - it reduces wrinkles, firms and smoothes, and in adolescents. Because it has antibacterial properties, it is recommended for acne skin.
WHEN TO USE: NIGHT/DURING THE WINTER AND AUTUMN PERIOD
BHA ACIDS
That is, acids beta -hydroxyl, especially helpful in the care of oily skin with imperfections. Because they are fat-soluble they can penetrate the sebaceous layer of the skin, thanks to which they effectively cleanse pores. BHA acids include:
- SALICYLIC ACID – very popular in cosmetics for acne, not only for teenagers. It regulates sebum secretion by penetrating the hair follicles adjacent to the sebaceous glands, prevents pimples and inflammation, and lightens discolorations and scars. Salicylic acid is also used in hair care preparations, and more specifically for the scalp and its diseases, e.g. dandruff. It is a rather mild acid, but it is worth remembering to always combine anti-acne treatment with moisturizing cosmetics to prevent excessive drying and irritation of the skin.
WHEN TO USE: NIGHT/DURING THE WINTER AND AUTUMN PERIOD
PHA ACIDS
That is, acids poly -hydroxyl, highly soluble in water. Acids from this group are the mildest, so they can also be used in the summer season in combination with an appropriate filter. It is a good choice for people with sensitive, irritated and vascular skin. PHA acids include:
- LACTOBIONIC ACID – has anti-inflammatory and slightly exfoliating properties. It is used to treat rosacea, and because it affects the condition of blood vessels, it is also used in cosmetics intended for vascular skin.
- GLUCONOLACTONE – cleanses the skin, but its action is not as intense as, for example, glycolic acid. This is a good solution for people who want to smooth and even out their skin tone, but have very sensitive skin. In addition, gluconolactone moisturizes and firms.
WHEN TO USE: SUITABLE FOR USE ALL YEAR ROUND
ACID LONE?
Yes! There is a type of acid that does not belong to any of the above groups. It is azelaic acid, which forms a separate group of dicarboxylic acids. Interestingly, this acid is obtained from cereal grains: barley, rye and wheat. It has a wide range of applications: from soothing inflammation and reducing imperfections, through brightening discolorations, to anti-wrinkle effects. It can be used all year round, and because it is very delicate, it is suitable even for sensitive skin.
WHEN TO USE: SUITABLE FOR USE ALL YEAR ROUND
HOW TO USE COSMETICS WITH ACIDS?
Although the concentration of acids in home products is usually not high, they are still compounds that exfoliate the skin and interfere with its structure. To minimize the risk of a red, sensitive face, there are several rules that should be followed:
- ALWAYS follow the rules given on the packaging - we know what we are writing and we do it in your best interest. It is not without reason that we include information on how to use a given cosmetic on the label.
- Accustom your skin to the use of acids, at first apply them to your skin every second or third day. Not only those with stronger effects, but also those considered mild. Check how your skin reacts to them. Over time, you can use them more and more often.
- Use them at night, on a dry face - very important information. Moreover, remember to always apply high SPF (!) to your face the next day.
- Support the acid treatment with good moisturizing products - hyaluronic acid ( DRIP Serum ), aloe water, pre- and probiotics ( DASH Tonic ) will soothe the skin and strengthen its protective barrier.
IMPORTANT! Do not combine AHA and BHA acids with retinoids, as you will weaken the effect of both and will not achieve the desired effect.
A little knowledge, properly selected cosmetics and you can act. The upcoming fall and winter season is the perfect time to include the selected acid in your daily care!
