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Skin care with Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Nowadays skin care and anti aging products added with Alpha Hydroxy Acids are in great demand. Many people purchase products with AHAs, because they state to reduce wrinkles, spots, sun-damaged skin, and other signs of aging.

AHA or Alpha Hydroxy Acids are used from ancient times. Alpha-hydroxy acids, sometimes called AHAs, are a group of ingredients used to exfoliate the surface of the skin. It is found in many beauty products. AHAs are used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, treating blackheads and other acne, and creating even skin tone. The acids that belong to the alpha-hydroxy acid family are lactic, malic, tartaric, glycolic and citric.

Alpha hydroxy acids are water-soluble so they do not penetrate well beneath the skin's surface. They are perfect for use on skin that is not prone to breakouts.

What are AHA molecules?

Alpha hydroxy acids are resulting from fruit and milk. They include:

• glycolic acid, derived from sugar cane
• lactic acid, derived from milk
• mandelic acid, derived from bitter almonds
• tartaric acid, derived from grapes
• malic acid, derived from apples and pears amongst others.

How AHA works?
Cells in the top layers of skin are bound together by inter-cellular fluid. As one ages this glue-like substance unites the skin cells tighter and denser. Dead skin layers increase and unlike young skin, natural exfoliation becomes difficult. This group of natural acids has the capability to loosen this inter-cellular fluid and allows the top layer of dead skin to remove easily. Thus, AHA products help in exfoliation or shedding of the skin surface. The degree of exfoliation depends on the type and concentration of the AHA, its pH (acidity) and other ingredients in the product. Most skin care cosmetics sold to customers contain AHA at levels up to 10 percent.

They are mainly useful in dry skin and may help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Studies have shown that AHAs may also help to encourage collagen production. There is evidence that they can improve the appearance of sun damage skin. They are often a significant component of any skin-lightening regimen.

Side effects of AHA
Side effects from AHA containing products can involve burns, itching, pain and possibly scarring. The level of acidity (the pH) of the product also can affect irritation.

AHA products:
AHAs are mostly used in gels, creams or lotions to allow the product to deliver benefits. Some experts recommend that people should buy products with AHA concentrations of 10% or less and a pH of 3.5 or higher (the higher the pH the lower the acidity). If any unfavorable effects occur, then the use should be stopped immediately. In any case, people are suggested to keep away from sunlight or use proper protection when using them.

The best way to use AHA products would be to use the product for some time and see the difference in skin. Stay away from sunlight exposure while using AHA products and look out for any side effects. You are recommended to consult your dermatologist before using these products.