Azadi Times: Most people are not aware of how to keep their skin healthy. When it comes to women, they are very sensitive about their skin and are ready to follow any advice in this regard.
In such a case, the question arises that what is the right way to achieve healthy skin?
If we look at the science of skin, we find that two types of acids play an important role in healthy skin, one is alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and the other is beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). These two types of acids, although different from each other, are very important for human skin. One of these acids cannot be preferred over the other as they fulfill different needs to keep the skin healthy. Although you will see these acids on the labels of many beauty products available in the market, no one knows how these acids make the skin healthier and brighter.
What are AHAs?
These acids are a class of chemical compounds that occur naturally in the skin and can also be obtained from external sources. AHAs can be obtained from many sources, but the best sources are sugarcane and milk. It can also be obtained from plants, which are included in the Fruit Acid class. Sugarcane contains Glycolic Acid. Scientifically, the AHA in sugarcane has the smallest molecular size and is the type most commonly used in skin care products. This is because, due to its small molecular size, it absorbs into the skin very effectively.
Benefits of AHAs
These are beneficial for the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis (Epidermis) and the deeper layer (Dermis). Research shows that dead skin cells often settle on the outer layer of the skin, which AHAs remove with their exfoliative effects. They also increase the production of collagen in the skin, which keeps the skin fresh and wrinkles away. AHAs keep the outer layer of the skin smooth and clear while removing the effects of harsh chemical soaps, face washes and lotions on the skin. It also removes wrinkles, dark spots and acne scars from the skin. The glycolic acid in AHAs is especially effective on oily and acne-prone skin.
Individuals with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation from AHAs, so such individuals should use products with lower concentrations (around 4 percent).
AHAs are found in face washes, masks, serums, creams and pills.
What are BHAs?
They are also called sialic acid and they are obtained from aspirin. Science suggests that BHAs are organic carboxylic acids and differ from AHAs in that a hydroxyl group is attached to the beta position of the carboxyl group. This one property makes it different from AHAs, as both acids are otherwise similar in structure.
Benefits of BHAs
The most common example is salicylic acid (SA), used against acne. The special feature of this acid is that it has the ability to absorb fats and oils into the skin, so it is very effective on oily skin. Salicylic acid is widely used in over-the-counter (OTC) acne products because of these properties. It has a natural ability to cleanse the sebum and dirt that accumulate in the pores. In this way, it neutralizes the bacteria generated in the pores and does not leave scars on the skin. Otherwise, these bacteria can go on to cause skin damage and premature wrinkles.
Salicylic acid also builds immunity against bacteria and is very effective in treating stubborn skin areas. Products with high levels of this acid are useful in treating warts.
BHAs improve the skin’s natural thickness, the skin’s immune system and collagen production.
People with any type of allergy to aspirin should use it with caution. BHAs should be used in small amounts and intermittently at first and then gradually increased to daily use, so that the skin becomes accustomed to absorbing its effects.
From cleansers to masks, every skin care product contains these two acids. Similarly, use a face wash that contains salicylic acid. Massage the face with such a face wash for several minutes, so that it has time to show its effect on the skin. Take care of your skin and always look beautiful.
