Unlocking Radiance: The A to Z Guide on Types of Skincare Acids for Glowing Skin
- Anagha Kolanu
- Jan 7, 2024
- 2 min read
By: Anagha Kolanu
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Using acids in skincare is crucial for achieving that radiant, supple glow—no, not the trippy kind like LSD, just the skin-friendly kind! These acids work as exfoliants, acting like a reset button for your skin, giving it a fresh start, much like rebooting your laptop. They boost skin cell turnover, bringing new cells to the surface, just like restarting your laptop clears out unnecessary tabs for better efficiency (no more annoying airplane noises!). There are three main types of skincare acids: AHAs, BHAs, and LHAs. It might look like alphabet soup now, but by the end of this post, you'll know how to use them for a better skincare routine!
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→ IMPORTANT: Remember to use a different towel to dry your face instead of the towel you used in the shower to decrease the chance of bacteria transfer! It'll help decrease future breakouts and clogged pores.
AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids):
Examples: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid
Characteristics: AHAs, being water-soluble acids, predominantly exfoliate the skin's surface. They contribute to the removal of dead skin cells, enhancement of skin texture, and addressing concerns such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and dullness.
Applicability: Generally suitable for normal to dry skin types. Notably, glycolic acid has smaller molecules, enabling deeper penetration.
My favorite AHAs:
COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid
I really liked this one because it was easier to layer with my other skincare products and didn't cause them to "pill". Pilling is when you layer your skincare products but they all breakdown when you rub it in due to the ingredients not interacting properly (it almost looks like little white flakes). It also didn't cause any irritation and made my skin feel so smooth after a couple uses. I really liked pairing this with hyaluronic acid because the consistency of both left my skin feeling so hydrated and supple. This product is great for people of all skin types!
AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
Okay, I LOVE this one because it calmed down any redness I had whenever I had breakouts and also diminished the size of my cystic acne after only a couple uses. It is also so lightweight and easy to apply on the skin! I wash my face, apply toner, and then apply this product. This product is great for all skin types.
BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids):
Example: Salicylic acid
Characteristics: BHAs, as oil-soluble acids, can penetrate into pores effectively. They excel in unclogging pores, making them suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid, with its anti-inflammatory properties, is beneficial for addressing acne and blackheads.
Applicability: Ideal for those with oily and acne-prone skin, as well as individuals dealing with blackheads and enlarged pores.
My favorite BHAs:
ANUA Heartleaf 77 Toner Pads
I always use these as the first step in my skincare routine before adding hyaluronic acid and other skincare serums because it not only clears away any impurities on my skin, but it leaves my skin looking so glowy after. I like using toner pads before starting my routine because it helps your skin to act almost like a blank canvas to absorb all the serums you're going to put after. I always notice that my serums always go on so smoothly when I exfoliate with a toner pad before starting my routine. This product is also great for those with any skin type.
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
This exfoliant literally cleared the most stubborn breakout I had during finals week in 2 days. It is a little harsh so it is not recommended for those with dry skin, but rather those with oily or combination skin. I use this product right after washing my face when it is still dry. I leave it on for 5 minutes before adding any other serums on my face.
The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleaner
This is one of the first cleaners I've ever used on my skin and it honestly does a pretty decent job. It isn't harsh and I didn't break out when I used it. It is also a great price so if anyone is interested in purchasing a basic cleanser that'll get rid of impurities - this one is for you!
LHAs (Lipo Hydroxy Acids):
Example: Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, benzoyl peroxide
Characteristics: LHAs, considered derivatives of salicylic acid, share similarities with BHAs but are typically formulated to be gentler. LHAs provide exfoliation and assist in unclogging pores with reduced potential for irritation compared to some stronger BHAs.
Applicability: LHAs are suitable for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin who desire the benefits of exfoliation. While LHAs share characteristics with BHAs, they are typically considered milder and can be a good option for those who want the benefits of exfoliation without the potential for excessive irritation. Whenever my skin is feeling dry or flaky but I need to exfoliate, I opt for an LHA as I notice that it leaves my skin feeling nice and smooth without the irritation of a stronger acid.
My favorite LHAs:
La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment with 5.5% Benzoyl Peroxide
This product is not only my holy grail for my hormonal acne, but it also cleared my dark spots with consistent use. I apply it on dry skin right after washing my skin and wait 2-3 minutes before applying any other skincare product. It gets rid of any pimples I have after using it for a couple days and significantly reduces the size of any painful cystic acne I have under the skin. For my oily to combo skin girlies, this product is amazing for you! For those with dry skin, I recommend using it only 3 times a week to allow for your skin barrier to heal.
Thanks for reading !!! Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for a new post next week !
Wonderful article
Great article, thank you for sharing.
Great article, big fan of Paula’s Choice exfoliant and 30 day miracle toner pads!
So insightful thank u for sharing!