Do you know your Hydroxy Acids?
Acid toners are a popular way to exfoliate the skin and get that glow. But do you know your Hydroxy Acids?
Desquamation is the natural process of shedding skin cells, but this process becomes less efficient as we age. Chemical exfoliation with an acid toner can help by sloughing away the top layer of dead skin cells and revealing more radiant skin.
But a word of caution! Over-use of harsh acid toners, formulated with high percentages of glycolic acid for example, can potentially damage your skin barrier and is one of the main reasons why dermatologists are seeing an increase in skin issues.
So, be sure to choose your exfoliatant carefully and make sure that it is well-balanced with active ingredients which will not only gently resurface your skin but moisturise and protect it too.
Let’s take a look at the main classes of Hydroxy acids.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHA’s are mild resurfacing acids, which can be plant or animal based and include acids such as glycolic, lactic acid, mandelic and citric acid. Whilst they are primarily exfoliating acids, they also have other benefits, such as;
- Positive effects on collagen and procollagen production
- Correct discolouration from scars and age spots
- Improve the appearance of surface lines and wrinkles
- Improve skin texture
- Prevent acne breakouts
- Brighten your complexion
But all Alpha hydroxy Acids are acidic and not all are equal. Lactic acid occurs naturally in the skin and is a much larger molecule than glycolic acid. For this reason, it does not penetrate as deeply into the skin as glycolic acid and is gentler and less irritating to the skin, whilst still an effective resurfacing acid. It also has brightening benefits. 5% Lactic acid is the sweet spot for sensitive skin.
Note - AHA toners can increase sun-sensitivity, so use your AHA toner in your evening skincare routine.
Beta Hydroxy Acids
Beta Hydroxy Acids, like AHA’s are exfoliating acids but with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Salicylic is the most commonly used BHA in skincare. Salicylic acid helps to clear out debris in pores, making it an effective acne treatment. BHAs can also increase the skin’s resistance to ultra-violet light.
Poly Hydroxy Acids
Poly Hydroxy Acids are the new kid on the block. PHA’s are second generation AHA’s and include gluconolactone and lactobionic acid. Poly Hydroxy acids, like AHA, help to exfoliate dead skin cells but they also hugely moisturising for the skin. PHA’s also fight glycation. Glycation is the process of sugar molecules binding with collagen in the skin to form Advance Glycation Age products or A.G.E for short. Glycated collagen can lead to loss of elasticity and sagging skin. PHA’s are also rich in antioxidants and stimulate epidermal growth and repair.
Maysama ABP11 Green Rooibos Gentle Resufacing Toner
So, now you know your Hydroxy Acids, you will understand that the ABP in Maysama ABP11 Green Rooibos Gentle Resurfacing Toner stands for Alpha, Beta and Poly hydroxy acids at a total of 11%. Combining Lactic Acid [AHA] at 5%, Salicylic acid [BHA] at 1% and Gluconolactone [PHA] at 5% to exfoliate, moisturise and brighten.
Maysama’s well-balanced formulation provides effective exfoliation, whilst protecting the skin barrier.
And it doesn’t stop there! Fortified with 1% Kombucha for its probiotic and brightening benefits and 1% Green Rooibos Extract for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, our ABP11 toner will exfoliate, moisturise, brighten and soothe your skin. So you can be assured of the best glow with healthy, happy skin!
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