If you’re a beginner getting into skincare, and trying to establish a skincare routine, knowing your acids is very important. The moment we hear acids, everyone gets a little sceptical about how on earth anyone would recommend to put them on anybody’s face.
We associate acids with highly flammable, toxic substances. However, there are mild acids for every type of skin concern, and they are extremely helpful in maintaining smooth, clear, even skin. Understanding how each acid works with your skin type is absolutely crucial before you get on board with a skincare routine.
Glycolic Acid
This is a very gentle chemic exfoliator which falls into the family of Alpha Hydroxy Acids better known as AHA. Chemical exfoliators are definitely preferred over scrubs and manual exfoliators as they destroy the skin barrier and opens up your pores. This acid helps with giving a radiant glow to your skin.
It is a very mild acid that’s suitable for any type of skin, including sensitive skin. It helps with hyper pigmentation, reducing blemishes and helps with evening out your skin tone. This acid lowers the pH level which helps stimulate cellular activity that helps with the skin’s natural renewal and repair process.
Hyaluronic Acid
This acid is one of the best moisturizing agents. It helps with glowy hydrated skin and retaining the natural moisture our skin produces. The fact that it attracts a lot of moisture, and retains it, helps with maintaining a thick skin barrier, which protects our skin from acne etc. Hydrated skin always looks healthy and plump. The texture of the substance ensures that it doesn’t clog pores and is also ideal for oily skin as it doesn’t appear oily. For smooth, even, glowing skin, you can include a serum or cream that has hyaluronic acid as an ingredient.
Salicylic Acid
This is one of the most recommended ingredients for acne prone skin. This acid has a Beta Hydroxy Acid mostly known as BHA that can extract any impurities our skin has instead of just drying them. Usually for acne prone skin, the dryness is a massive side effect, and salicylic acids reduce it.
It is a brilliant chemical exfoliator that helps rejuvenate and give a visible glow after the usage. However, since the skin becomes sensitive, it is always recommended to use sunscreen after the use to protect your skin. It is always used in very small concentrations and is not advisable for very dry skin or older skin.
Lactic Acid
This is another mild alpha hydroxy acid then helps with scars. This is also a very gentle acid that helps rejuvenate skin, and increase the turnover of cells. It’s gentle exfoliating properties ensure our skin constantly regenerates cells to maintain a smooth, clear texture. It is mostly used for sensitive skin, and works well to drive hydration. This acid doesn’t thin out the skin’s natural barrier and is advisable to use during the mornings and evenings both.
When using acids, it is always advised to use sunscreen after the usage. Especially if you use them in your morning skincare routine. Thorough research is absolutely important before you start the usage of all these chemicals.
