AHA

The choice depends on your skin type and concerns. The glycolic acid is often considered the most effective for exfoliating and improving skin texture, while the lactic acid offers a gentler exfoliation coupled with hydration.

AHAs can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and should therefore preferably be used in the evening. Adequate sun protection is then essential the following day.

By stimulating cellular turnover, AHAs improve the skin’s appearance and can help reduce the signs of skin ageing.

Most AHAs are too irritating for sensitive skin. Nevertheless, thanks to its high molecular weight, lactic acid is considered a mild AHA that can be used on sensitive skin.

Depending on their concentration, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) may be used daily if the skin tolerates them well. However, it is recommended to begin with intermittent applications to minimise irritation and assess skin tolerance.

AHAs can help reduce superficial spots by accelerating the removal of pigmented cells, but results require several weeks of regular use.

In cosmetics, concentrations typically range from 5% to 10% depending on the active ingredients and the products. Beyond that, they more commonly involve aesthetic treatments performed in beauty salons or dermatology clinics.

Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid and citric acid are among the most commonly used AHAs.

That depends on the AHAs. Lactic acid, for example, which also has humectant properties, may be particularly suitable for exfoliating dry skin.