Skincare Acids 101: How To Pick The Right One For You

Written by Sanya HamdaniSep 16, 2023
Skincare acids 101: How to pick the right one for you

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the terms AHA’s, BHA’s and PHA’s we get it. The skincare world can be quite confusing, more so for a skincare novice who has just started learning about skincare acids. For starters if the thought of applying acids on your face scares you then we’re about to change that. Incorporating the right acids into your beauty routine can address a number of skin concerns and lead you to the skin of your dreams.

Skincare acids can be used by everyone, however picking the right one is of utmost importance, read on to find out which one is best for your skin.

 

Salicylic acid

Kojic acid

Salicylic acid or beta hydroxyl acid (BHA) contains anti-bacterial properties and work wonders on smoothing out hormonal breakouts, reduce breakouts and prevent pore clogging. BHAs penetrate deeper into the skin compared to AHAs and are therefore recommended for oily and acne-prone skin. Those with sensitive skin should be extremely careful with salicylic acid as it can dry out the skin.

 

Glycolic acid

Kojic acid

Glycolic acid is the smallest of alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA), which easily seeps into the top layer of the skin by breaking down damaged surface cells. Derived from sugar-laden fruits such as papaya and pineapple, glycolic acid gives skin a mild peeling and exfoliating effect. This results in fewer blemishes, reduced wrinkles and brighter complexion. This acid is recommended to mature, dull and hyper-pigmented skin. If your skin gets easily irritated we suggest you don’t use glycolic acid.

 

Hyaluronic acid

Kojic acid

Hyaluronic acid is one of the most hyped acids in skincare and for all the right reasons. While its basic function is to hydrate and lump the skin, it does more than just that. This acid tightens skin cells at the epidermis level giving an instant lift to the skin. It can be used by any skin type to get youthful, supple and smooth skin.

 

Kojic acid

Kojic acid

Kojic acid has similar effects on skin as vitamin C, it inhibits pigment formation and brightens irregular or uneven skin tone. Although safe for most skin types it can have allergic reactions in those with sensitive skin. We suggest doing a patch test before moving forward with a product that contains kojic acid.

Sanya Hamdani

Written by

Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.

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