The Clueless Beauties Guide to Acids
Acids are an incredible ingredient to add to your skincare routine. They target acne, anti-aging, dehydrated skin, blackheads.. basically a lot. Educating yourself on the correct one to use can help tackle a number of skincare concerns.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
What is it? An exfoliant - without the abrasive sandy parts (scrubs) - the only AHA acids you need to care about are Glycolic and Lactic.
What does it do? Removes dead, dull skin cells from the surface of your skin - buildup of dead skin cells leads to dull, rough, uneven skin.
Benefits?
Smooths uneven skin
Improves dull skin
Who’s it for? Normal to dry skin with sun damage - but everyone can benefit.
Try,
NIP + Fab Glycolic Fix Cleansing Pads
PIXIE Glow Tonic
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA or Salicylic Acid)
What is it? The holy grail of skin care. Another exfoliant with incredible efficiency.
What does it do?
Exfoliates inside the pores i.e. as it’s oil based it penetrates into the pore and clears it out as well as the surface of the skin
Calms the skin
Benefits
Reduces breakouts - blackheads/whiteheads
Targets acne
Good for sensitive skin
Rosacea
Who’s it for? Everyone although specifically those with acne, blemishes, blackheads, clogged pores, overly sensitive skin or post acne scarring.
Try,
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
What is it? A natural ingredient that we produce in our skin that keeps it youthful and hydrated - HOWEVER, through aging and sun damage (tanning/burning - it’s all damage) it begins to decline. Therefore, it is important to increase it again with HA products.
How does it work? It holds moisture and promotes hydration in our skin - VITAL.
Who is it for? Everyone - it’s a key acid to use.
Benefits:
Hydrates skin through moisture production
Plumps skin
Try,
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid
The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
What is it? Vitamin C basically, we naturally produce this in our skin.
How does it work? It has antioxidant properties i.e. it protects your skin from external toxins that weaken the skins surface and cause our skin to age.
Who is it for? Everyone, especially if you live in London (pollution)
Benefits?
Anti-aging
Brightens Skin
Protects against pollution and sun damage
Try,
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Serum
Dr Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten + Firm Vitamin C Serum