Alpha Hydroxy Acid Benefits for Wrinkles
Alpha hydroxy acids (or AHAs) refer to a large group of different acids that all have similar effects on the body. Alpha hydroxy acids are frequently used in health and cosmetic products, with various uses, purposes and results, depending on dosage and usage. Overall, alpha hydroxy acids have been found beneficial to general health, particularly in the skin.
What are Different Kinds of Alpha Hydroxy Acid
As mentioned before, an alpha hydroxy acid can be one of many different acids, many of which are found in food including:
• Citric acid (found in citrus fruits)
• Glycolic acid (found in sugarcane)
• Lactic acid (found in milk)
• Malic acid (found in apples)
• Tartaric acid (found in grapes and bananas)
How are AHAs Used?
The most common cosmetic use of alpha hydroxy acids is in over the counter wrinkle creams. These acids are also prevalent in higher concentrations in chemical (or derma) peel procedures performed in dermatologists’ offices.
Wrinkle creams are said to smooth out and lessen the appearance of wrinkles on the face. Chemical peels are often successful in reducing acne and acne scarring, wrinkles, liver spots, discoloration, rough, scaly and sun-damaged skin.
Home chemical peel kits are also available for purchase. They are much more expensive than regular wrinkle creams, are also more effective than wrinkle creams, but not as effective as a chemical peel performed by a dermatologist.
How Does Alpha Hydroxy Acid work?
In wrinkle creams and chemical peels alike, the alpha hydroxyl acid penetrates the outer layers of skin, causing the dead skin cells and outer layers of skin to peel off, exposing the younger and less damaged skin beneath.
Alpha hydroxyl acids are made up of small chemical compounds. This gives the acid what is called bioavailability, because the molecules can more easily enter the skin cells in the top layers of the skin.
At lower concentrations (5-10%) such as in wrinkle creams, glycolic acid (a type of alpha hydroxyl acid) is very useful in loosening the skin cells on the outer layers of skin. This dosage is very light, which makes the results very temporary. More lasting results, the cream must be applied to the face regularly. At 10-50% concentration, AHA has a more lasting effect. The facial home kits that include AHA of this concentration are great for semi-temporary skin rejuvenation, and also as a primer for a real chemical peel procedure. The higher concentrations of AHA (50-70%) are where the lasting results come from. Chemical peels shouldn’t be performed more often than every couple of months, or as often as advised by your dermatologist.
What are the Side Effects of Alpha Hydroxy Acid Use?
The more invasive chemical procedures that involve alpha hydroxyl acid sometimes have side effects. The most common side effects are skin sensitivity to the sun, and skin irritation. These conditions are indicated through such symptoms as itching, redness, burning, possible scarring and some pain, all of which usually go away within hours or days of the procedure. Depending on the condition of your skin, results may vary. Chemical peels aren’t for everyone.
Is Alpha Hydroxy Acid Safe?
AHAs are found in the foods that you eat every day. They are safe and smart to eat. They are natural and healthy for you. In regards to applying these acids on your face, we’d advise you do so in moderation. Use wrinkle creams as a daily, temporary facial revamp. Always consult a dermatologist if you are interested in getting a chemical peal, or another treatment or product that involves a high concentration of alpha hydroxyl acid.