AHA exfoliants rely on the action of natural acids – alpha-hydroxy acids to be specific – to help gently remove dead skin cells and reveal your bright, smooth skin underneath. Two key AHAs are glycolic acid and lactic acid and are a great starting point for anyone starting out with chemical exfoliation (visit here for more about chemical versus physical exfoliation).
Glycolic acid is the simplest and smallest AHA exfoliant. It works on two levels to help shed dead skin cells on the outer-most layer of your skin while its small molecular size means it can also penetrate the skin easier and get to work at a deeper level. Glycolic acid helps stimulate fibroblasts (the active cells in your connective tissue) to produce collagen to help firm and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
A second exfoliant in the AHA family, lactic acid, is the super gentle cousin of glycolic acid. It’s perfect for dry or sensitive skin as it’s more hydrating and less irritating than glycolic acid. Like other AHAs, lactic acid helps to dissolve the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together, releasing them to reveal the brighter new skin underneath! If your skin is new to AHA exfoliants, lactic acid is the perfect one to start with before building up to more intense treatments.
Our Women’s Daily AHA Exfoliant contains a gentle combination of lactic acid and glycolic acid, designed for leaving on your skin overnight. It gets to work while you sleep, and in the morning, you wash your face as usual and enjoy a smoother, renewed complexion. We recommend slowly adding an AHA exfoliant to your skincare routine, starting with a couple times per week and working your way up to everyday use depending on your skin type. It can take a few weeks to start seeing results since our skin cell regeneration cycle is around a month long.
With all AHA exfoliants, there’s a chance your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight. Be sure to apply (and reapply) your favourite high SPF sunscreen and wear protective clothing while using AHA products and for at least a week after stopping use.
Pro tip: Nourish your skin from the inside out by pairing with our Women’s Daily dietary supplement. Containing our signature EnrichMe+ blend of natural botanicals, powerful antioxidants, and active nutrients for a holistic Skin&Within approach. Unlocking your best tomorrow.®