Should you consider chemical peels? Dropping acid on your skin may sound like the worst possible thing you can do, but the acids in your lotions and potions are stellar multi-tasking heroes that can tackle any skincare woe.
Whether you're dealing with acne, dullness or sun damage, there's an acid that can save the day and give you the flawless and glowy complexion of your dreams (and without the burning too!).
Here are the best acids of the bunch and how they can take you to skincare heaven:
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Glycolic Acid
What it is:
A naturally occurring Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from plants and vegetables rich in sugar, such as sugarcane and beets.
What it does:
It exfoliates skin, hydrates it and boosts collagen production.
Why it works:
It dissolves the “glue” that holds skin cells together, so they can easily slough off and reveal the brighter, smoother and more even-toned skin underneath. Plus, it's able to attract moisture from the air into the skin, keeping it well hydrated.
Oh, there's more. Its small size (it's the smallest of all the AHAs) allows it to easily penetrate deep into the skin, where it can stimulate the cells to produce more skin-firming collagen.
Who should use it:
Anyone with dry skin who could use some extra moisture. Anyone with sun-damaged skin who wants to reduce wrinkles and dark spots.
Who should avoid it:
Its small size is a double-edged sword: it allows it to get deeper into the skin, but that also makes it more irritating than other AHAs. That's why those with sensitive skin don't always tolerate it well.
Found in: 35% Professional Strength Glycolic Acid Peel
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Lactic Acid
What it is:
An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) usually derived from the fermentation of milk.
What it does:
Like Glycolic Acid, it exfoliates and hydrates skin.
Why it works:
Same as Glycolic. It dissolves the “glue” that keeps dead skin cells attached to the surface and infuses skin with the moisture it steals from the environment.
Who should use it:
Lactic acid is the gentlest of all AHAs, so it's perfect for sensitive skin.
Who should avoid it:
Everyone can use it. But if you're dealing with sun damage or acne, you may find other acids more beneficial. Found in: 40% Lactic Acid Peel Professional Strength
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Salicylic Acid
What it is:
A naturally occurring Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) derived from willow bark (the same plant that gives us aspirin).
What it does:
It exfoliates both the skin and the pores, getting rid of blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.
Why it works:
This acid has a dual exfoliating action: dissolves the “glue” that holds skin cells together on the surface of the skin and penetrates inside the pores, unclogging them from within. That's why it's so good at treating and preventing breakouts and blemishes. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the redness that always comes along with pimples.
Who should use it:
Anyone with oily and acne-prone skin who wants to clear up and prevent breakouts.
Who should avoid it:
May be slightly drying for people with dry and sensitive skin types.
Found in: 30% Salicylic Acid Peel Professional Strength, 2% Salicylic Acid Gel
What Else You Need To Know
Acids are pretty powerful stuff. They can do wonders for the skin, but you need to use them with care:
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Start small: At first, use small concentrations (7-12%) to give your skin time to get used to them and increase them gradually (our professional peels can all be diluted).
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Don't overdo it: Peels aren't for daily use. Once or twice a week is more than enough (if you have sensitive skin, stick to one). You can always increase frequency later on if you really need to.
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Wear sunscreen: Peels can make skin more susceptible to sun damage, so always apply sunscreen afterwards (yes, even in winter!).
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If you experience redness and irritation: You're either using a concentration that's too high for your skin to tolerate or using it too often. Take a step back and use a smaller dose less often.
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If you're pregnant: Talk with your doctor before adding acids to your skincare routine. Some acids are not recommended for use during pregnancy and nursing.