The word “acid” can sound a little intimidating and can conjure up thoughts of scary chemical burns. But when used at the right concentrations, acids are actually some of the most beneficial ingredients available in skin care.There are different acids for different skin issues and they can be used to fight acne, wrinkles, age spots, scarring, and uneven skin tone. But with so many acids on the market, it can seem overwhelming to work out which products to buy for your specific skin type. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular acids and their uses:
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it effective in the treatment of skin conditions like acne and rosacea. The acid can prevent future outbreaks and clean bacteria from your pores that causes acne. REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic is a cult-status tonic, containing azelaic acid, that exfoliates, brightens, tightens and hydrates for a smooth, even and energised complexion that’s all glow without the irritation.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is derived from several different types of fungi or through the fermentation process of Japanese rice wine. Kojic acid is widely used by dermatologists as a powerful topical skin lightening agent for treating hyperpigmentation (sun spots, age spots, and dark spots) and melasma. SkinCeuticals Discolouration Defence Serum is a layerable, daily-use dark spot corrector serum containing kojic acid, which is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of key types of skin discolouration, including stubborn brown patches and post-blemish scars.
Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid is one of the best-regarded anti-ageing ingredients in the world of skincare. It works to accelerate cell turnover by dissolving the tiny bonds that hold skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin on the surface that can lead to dull complexions, as well as fine lines. It also strengthens collagen, one of the building blocks of the skin’s support network that gives it youthful firmness. Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel and Reset is a resurfacing peel, containing mandelic acid, that instantly improves radiance, texture and clarity whilst supporting skin with nourishing hydration.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid works by speeding up cell turnover as it dissolves the bonds that hold skin cells together. In effect, your skin is able to shed dead skin cells more quickly than it would on its own.This process smooths and brightens your skin, keeps your pores clean, and prevents ingrown hairs and acne. Murad Vita-C Glycolic Brightening Serum contains gold-stabilised vitamin C and glycolic acid serum for dramatically brighter, healthier-looking skin.
Salicylic Acid
Perhaps the most well-known of all facial acids, salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps promote the skin’s natural exfoliation process. Originally derived from the bark of white willow and wintergreen leaf, this ingredient has long been used to target various concerns, including rough and bumpy skin (also known as keratosis pilaris), clogged pores, and skin conditions like psoriasis. Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil is a high-performance night oil combining retinol and salicylic acid into one skin-soothing formula that helps reduce visible signs of premature skin ageing and clear breakouts.