The Beauty of AHAs

AHA's - or alpha hydroxyacids - are commonly found in skin care products. AHA is a group of acids often referred to as "fruit acids." While there are many types, they all are generally used to treat hyperpigmentation, damaged skin and acne.

The beauty of AHAs is that they improve your skin with little effort needed on your part! They exfoliate dead skin which in turn helps to unclog pores, keep skin smooth and clear, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles (yes please!). Further, there is the added bonus that in doing so - they actually help to improve skin's hydration. They have natural moisturizing properties and activate your skin's own hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid then is able to retain more moisture in your skin.

Some typical AHA's include:

Glycolic Acid (found in At Long Last, Break Free and Nature Nurture) which is sourced from sugar cane juice
Lactic Acid (found in Break Free) which is sourced from milk
Malic Acid (found in Nature Nurture) which is found in apples
Tartaric Acid which comes from grapes and wine
Citric Acid (found in Nature Nurture) which comes from lemons, limes, pineapples, oranges and other fruits
Pyruvic Acid (found in Break Free) is derived from tartaric acid

Glycolic and Lactic acids are thought to be the most effective for use in skincare and can be safely used in cosmetic products at a rate of no higher than 10%. Generally, AHA's can be safe for all skin types, but people with sensitive skin should test the products on their skin before they use them.

So go ahead - embrace those AHAs. Your skin will look and feel smoother and softer.