Hydroxy Acids: What They Can Do For Your Skin

Written By Jennifer Raskin / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

Go check your bathroom vanity and you’re bound to find hydroxy acids in your skincare products. Each one has special benefits to the skin with some being better than others for your particular skin type. Choosing them wisely will have the best benefits.

You’ll notice there are two varieties of hydroxy acids. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can dissolve in water. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble. Both are natural derivatives of food and plant sources.

But are they safe? Yes, more or less. It depends on the concentration of them and how well you protect your skin. They’re said to expose your skin to more harmful damage from the sun but this can be resolved by wearing SPF, you know, like you should be doing anyway!

Not sure which hydroxy acid will help your skin out the most? Here are the most popular ones!

Glycolic Acid for your skin

Glycolic acid is an AHA that comes from sugarcane. It goes down to the dermis and assists with collagen production. So, if you have deep-set wrinkles, this is a good one to try.

Salicylic Acid for your skin

Salicylic acid is a BHA that is created from willow bark. Ideal for clearing out pores, you’ll find this BHA in many skincare formulations for blemish-prone skin. The willow bark also makes it very soothing and calms inflammation to help control skin problems.

Citric Acid for your skin

As you may have guessed, citric acid comes from fruits of the citrus variety. It smells naturally citrusy and uplifting. Often used in acne treatments, it works great though if you also want to get rid of the signs of aging or dark spots, another hydroxy acid might be a better choice.

Mandelic Acid for your skin

Mandelic acid is a versatile AHA that can be used to treat the signs of aging and acne too. Plus, you can use it on sensitive skin. If you have breakouts, fine lines, saggy skin, or discoloration, mandelic acid is the one you want.

Lactic Acid for your skin

Lactic acid is an AHA that’s very similar to glycolic acid. It exfoliates and boosts moisture to help keep skin from drying out.

It works great to lighten skin though tends to be gentler than glycolic acid. Additionally, it’s a match for sensitive skin since it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles while making cell turnover speed up for refined skin texture and tone.

No matter which hydroxy acid formulation you choose, make protecting your skin a priority when you go outdoors. This will prevent future damages from arising while reaping the many benefits of hydroxy acids!

Looking for 100% chemical-free, all-natural nourishing face and body oils? Check out Earth & Elm Nourishing Face Oil and Earth & Elm Nourishing Body Oil. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Written By:

Jennifer Raskin is a freelance writer, wife and mom that loves cold weather despite her location in Florida, cooking, reading, watching ‘80s movies, weight-lifting, and wine tasting.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.

Photo by Alexandra Tran on Unsplash