Facial Serum Acids

 The other day, I took time to read all the bottles of serums I have for my face and noted that many have a variety of “acids” I’m unfamiliar with, so I’m  sharing the information  so when you see it, you’ll know what it is.  

Let’s start with glycolic acid.  Glycolic acid is actually a water soluble form of AHA or alpha hydroxy acid which is made from sugar cane.  Due to it’s super tiny size, it penetrates a person’s skin quite well and it’s size also allows it to exfoliate the skin better. In addition, glycolic exfoliates a person’s skin while reducing fine line, helps with dark spots and hyperpigmentation and improves an uneven skin tone.  It works on all skin types.  

It also helps increase cell turnover by dissolving the bonds that hold cells together so cells can fall off.  Furthermore, it encourages collagen production which makes your skin look plumper, and firmer.  One great thing is that Glycolic acid helps fight sun damage which many of us experience during the summer. It is often found in acne treatments because it helps keep pores cleaner.

Next is salicylic acid which is a beta hydroxy acid derived from the willow tree.  It is great because it exfoliates the skin while helping to clear pores, and treating breakouts.  Salicylic acid is good for combination, oily skins or someone with acne.  It works well to clear mild acne and help prevent blackheads.  It works by penetrating the skin to dissolve any dead cells that clog your pores.  

You’ll find Hyaluronic acid in so many preparations.  Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by your body as a clear gooey substance known as hyaluronan.  About half of the naturally produced hyaluronan is found in your skin where it helps to bind water thus retaining moisture.  Hyaluronic acid is another substance that our bodies produce less of as we grow older.  It is recommended for all types of skin but is best for dry or acne-prone skin requiring an oil-free option.

L-Ascorbic acid also known as vitamin C. It is a water soluble ingredient found in some fruits and vegetables but when used in facial serums, it can stimulate the production of collagen, prevent UV damage, brighten your skin tone and enhance your skin.  When you apply Vitamin C directly to your skin, you receive the most benefits but don’t just squeeze the juice out of an orange and apply it.

Vitamin C needs to be properly processed so it has been chemically altered so it is absorbed better by your skin. It is best to use a vitamin C serum in the morning and at night after the toner but before the moisturiser and sunscreen.  Furthermore vitamin C is great at protecting our skins from car exhaust, cigarette smoke, alcohol, over processed foods and certain chemicals.  

Then there is ferulic acid which is a plant based antioxidant found in anti aging products.    It is good at fighting free radicals which helps slow down the aging process. It is often used with other ingredients such as vitamin C to help stabilize it while boosting its ability to protect skin. It also enhances retinols, helps prevent sun damage while protecting collagen, and promotes healthy skin and is good for all types of skin.

Finally there is citric acid which is a type of AHA that speeds up cell renewal while balancing the pH of your skin.  It has been found to exfoliate the upper level of dead skin cells and helps clean pores.  It also reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and helps skin tone.