The Fundamental Guide to Skincare Acids
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Ferulic Acid
What’s it known for?
- Brightening skin
- Smoothing fine lines and wrinkles
- Antioxidant protection
- Stabilizing other antioxidants
“Ferulic acid is another antioxidant found naturally in fruit seeds, vegetables and nuts. Like all other antioxidants, it fights the damaging effects of free radicals.”
Glycolic Acid (AHA)
What’s it known for?
- Exfoliating dead skin cells
- Evening skin tone
- Minimizing pores
- Fighting acne
“Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is one of the smallest molecules in the AHA family. Being small and water-soluble helps it penetrate skin more deeply than the average AHA.”
Hyaluronic Acid
What’s it known for?
- Hydration, hydration, hydration!
- Effectively plumping skin for a more youthful appearance
“Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a humectant derived from sugar. Hyaluronic acid’s magic trick is that it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which is exceptionally beneficial for skin health. It not only draws in moisture, but is able to retain it for a smoother, fresher appearance.”
Kojic Acid
What’s it known for?
- Brightening skin
“Interestingly enough, kojic acid is a byproduct in the fermentation of rice used for making sake. It’s produced by several fungi, most commonly Aspergillus oryzae, whose common name in Japanese is koji. It’s used in food as a natural preservative. In cosmetics, kojic acid is regarded as a skin-lightening agent, much like hydroquinone. Unlike hydroquinone, however, kojic acid has not been found to have negative effects on skin health.”
Lactic Acid (AHA)
What’s it known for?
- Exfoliating dead skin cells
- Hydrating
“Lactic acid is another popular AHA. It’s made up of large, water-soluble molecules that are limited to the outer layers of skin. As its name implies, lactic acid is commonly derived from lactose found in milk, though it can also come from fruit sugars. Because of its molecular structure, lactic acid is able to effectively remove dead skin cells while also providing moisture to those outer layers.”
Lactobionic Acid (PHA)
What’s it known for?
- Hydrating skin cells
- Firming and thickening skin
- Antioxidant protection
“Lactobionic is the second most common PHA, next to gluconolactone. It comes from oxidized milk sugar – usually that found in cow’s milk. Lactobionic acid is a strong humectant and antioxidant.”
Citric Acid (AHA)
What’s it known for?
- Antioxidant protection
- Improving texture and appearance
“Not surprisingly, citric acid is an AHA derived from citrus fruits. Hence its potent antioxidant properties. Like other AHAs, citric acid exfoliates the top layers of skin and encourages cell turnover.”
Citric Acid (AHA)
What’s it known for?
- Antioxidant protection, particularly against UV radiation
“This is another notable mention. L-ascorbic acid is the most commonly used, synthetic form of vitamin C. Between its highly researched antioxidant benefits and key role in collagen production, vitamin C is a must-have for healthy skin.”
