What is Hydroxy Acid and Why is it Included in Skin Care Products?

Hydroxy acids refer to naturally occuring organic acids either natural or synthetic that promote exfoliation and skin cell turnover.

Alpha-Hydroxy-Acid (AHA) is the best known member of this groups and comes in a variety of forms including acids from fruits, grains, nuts, and dairy products.

Beta-Hydroxy-Acid (BHA) also known as salicylic acid is found in willow bark as well as fruits and vegetables.

Polyhydroxy Bionic Acids (PHAs) offer similar benefits to AHAs without increasing the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation like some AHAs can.

Hydroxy Acids promote skin cell turnover which can decline as we mature. This can lead to the appearance of smoother skin and improved skin tone.

AHAs also offer humectant or moisturizing effects.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) can leave the skin more vulnerable to UV radiation. As a formulator you will want to keep AHAs at safe limits and as a consumer be sure to read product labels for any sun safety warning.

I use an ingredient known as fruit acid complex (FAC) (Water (and) Bilberry Extract (and) Sugar Cane Extract (and) Sugar Maple Extract (and) Orange Extract (and) Lemon Extract) in our Be Fresh Face Wash to support skin health.

(ngredients: Distilled water, Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultane, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Lauroaphoacetate, Lauric Acid**, Cocamidopropyl Betaine**, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf juice*, glycerin, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) flower extract, xanthum gum, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil and Iron Oxides, Citrus paradisi (grapefruit)*, Melaluca alternafolia (tea tree)* OR Thymus vulgaris ct linalool (thyme ct. linalool)* essential oils, Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (and) Sorbic Acid *organic or wildcrafted **gentle surfactants)

FAC contains several naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acids. According to my ingredient suppliers, alpha hydroxy acids have been shown to promote smoother, younger looking skin by increasing the rate of cell renewal.

I personally love our face wash and use it daily and it is a client favorite (although the new gel to milk mask cleanser I'm testing is becoming one of my favorites, but more on that in another post).

Likewise the goat milk in our Goat Milk Face Cream contains lactic acid and supports rejuvenated, healthy, moisturized skin. Personally this is the best face cream I've ever used -- yes I'm biased, I made it. But I'm very picky. You have no idea how many products I formulate and am frustrated that they aren't yet quite perfect.

The Goat Milk Face Cream -- I'm happy with and taking to new levels with hyaluronic acid.

Hopefully you learned a bit about hydroxy acids in skin care in this brief overview. Of course if you have more questions feel free to ask or comment.

Do you use products with hydroxy acids? What is your experience?

Aromatic blessings my friends,

Tricia