When I first heard about acids in skin care I immediately thought “no way! I’m not putting ACID on my skin!” but I didn’t actually know what acids were.
Products containing AHA and BHA can make a HUGE difference in the appearance of your skin and they are a great way too exfoliate without having to scrub and tug at your skin. AHA and BHA are perfect for getting rid of acne and blackheads, treating fine lines, oiliness and dullness. We all want glowing skin right?
AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acid. These types of acids stem from fruits or milk sugars and are water-soluble. These acids have endless benefits including; buffing away dead skin cells, brightening and making the skin tone more even, reducing discolouration after acne scarring, reducing fine lines and giving hydration. My favourite AHA is Glycolic and my go-to is Pixi Glow Tonic.
BHA stands for Beta Hydroxyl Acid. BHA’s are oil-soluble and because of this the BHA will be able to get deeper into your skin than the AHA and clear out your clogged pores. It is perfect for reducing inflammation within your skin to reduce break out as well as clear up textured skin. Our Microdermbrasion Mask will change your skin!
Using both AHA and BHA correctly can transform your skin!
Please do your research based on your skin as to the percentage of acids to use. The image shows a before and after of 3 months (left picture I have a tan) I have used a combination of Pixi Glow Tonic 5% Glycolic and Elixir by Saarah Microdermabrasion Mask 2% Salycilic.
I used the Pixi Glow Tonic on a cotton pad morning and evening and the Microdermabrasion Mask 3 times a week.
Be aware of…
Sunscreen when using AHA is an absolute must as they are photosensitive which means your skin will be extra sensitive to sun exposure, even when it is cloudy! My favourite SPF is the Heliocare SPF50 Gel.
Skin purge. When beginning a new skincare regimen, you may experience breakouts or irritation within the first few days of product use. it’s possible you could be experiencing what’s known as skin purging. A skin purge is simply a “skin detox.”
Using acids can lead to initial skin purging as they will sink deep into your pores, flushing out any toxins under the surface of your skin. When dead skin cells, oil, or dirt clog a pore, the pore forms a microcomedone, AKA a sticky plug under the skin that will eventually become break out.
Products that physically or chemically exfoliate your skin like our Microdermabrasion mask or Bamboo Cleansing Oil speed up the cell turnover process, meaning they speed up the process of a microcomedone manifesting as a pimple.
The good news, however, is that the purging effect on skin is temporary. Once these pimples have cleared up, your skin will look healthier and clearer than ever.
Tip: use a hot cloth with your cleanser.
BUT A skin reaction is different from normal breakouts because it will come as a direct result of using a certain product or ingredient. Unlike skin purging a skin reaction means your skin is sensitive or allergic to ingredients in the product you’re using. If your skin looks red and irritated beyond “normal blemishes or pimples ,you are likely having a skin reaction and should stop using the product immediately. Have a look at the table to decide which acid suits your skin!