Let’s talk Gylcolic, Salicylic, Hyaluronic, L-ascorbic ACID!
Acids are actually some of the most beneficial skincare ingredients.
Acids. It may sound like a scary ingredient that you wouldn’t put near your skin, but in actual fact acids are actually some of the most beneficial skincare ingredients.
When included as part of a regular skincare regime, Glycolic Acid (AHA), Salicylic Acid (BHA), Hyaluronic Acid and L-asorbic Acid are used to treat acne, ageing, scarring, uneven skin tone and more. But where to start? We break it down.
Glycolic Acid (AHA)
The most popular alpha hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane, that holds dead skin cells together to effectively exfoliate skin, prevent acne, fade dark spots, increase skin thickness, and even out skin tone and texture to give a smoother and brighter appearance. Its low molecular weight means it can deeply penetrate skin and help stimulate collagen production, too.
Glycolic Acid is also used in peels for treating acne and pigmentation. Take extra care with sun protection as this ingredient increases sun sensitivity.
Suitable for: All skin types particularly those prone to hyperpigmentation, ageing and acne prone.
Product recommendations containing Glycolic Acid:
O Cosmedics: Multi-Functional Peel, Corrective Cleanser and Peel, 3 in 1 Fruit Peel, Potent Clearing Serum. Dp Dermaceuticals: Micro Derm Exfoliant. Ginger&ME: AHA Milk-Gel Cleanser and Power Exfoliant Mask.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
The most common BHA used in skincare. Well known for exfoliating abilities to keep blackheads and pimples away which helps to reduce acne. Being oil-soluble gives this ingredient the ability to delve deep into pores and clear them.
Salicylic Acid, can be used in peels to treat acne, sun damage and melasma.
Suitable for: Normal to oily skin, acne prone
Product recommendations containing Salicylic Acid:
O Cosmedics: Pure C + BHA, Corrective Cleanser & Peel, Potent Clearing Serum. Dp Dermaceuticals: CLR Foam Cleanser, CLR Lotion.
Hyaluronic Acid
A sugar molecule which is naturally present in the skin. It boosts skins moisture content and minimises water loss. It can amazingly hold up to x1000 its weight in water, and helps to penetrate water deeper into the skin for intense hydration. It’s one ingredient that works for mostly all skin types.
Suitable for: All Skin types even sensitive or acne prone
Product recommendations containing Hyaluronic Acid:
O Cosmedics: Hyaluronic Serum. Dp Dermaceuticals: Hyla Active. Ginger&ME: Quinoa Lift and Hydrate Eye Cream
L-asorbic Acid
Also known as the purest form of Vitamin C which comes from natural sources such as oranges. This ingredient penetrates the skin tissue and are more active in collagen production. This results in powerful antioxidant benefits that help to protect the skin from environmental damage while improving the visible signs of ageing. This ingredient can also reduce photo-damage from the sun and as a rejuvenating ingredient playing a major role in skin brightness, firmness and overall repair.
Suitable for: For normal or oily skin types not suitable for sensitive skin or rosacea.
Product recommendations containing L-asorbic Acid:
O Cosmedics: Vitamin C Hemp Seed Oil, Eye Fusion, 3 in 1 Fruit Peel, B3 Plus, Pure C+BHA, Immortal Cream, Dp Dermaceuticals: Antioxidant Cocktail, Brite Lite, Retinal Active, Cover Recover. Ginger&ME: Vitamin Infusion Booster, Flash White Even Booster, Regenerative Nourishing Cream.
With all these products its best to come see us in the clinic, to receive a customised skincare plan and we can prescribe the best products based on your skincare needs and goals.