What are AHAs and Why Are They in Alpha-H Products?
I've been in the beauty industry for 4+ years now, although my background is originally in fine arts. In between researching and publishing our guides, I’m usually snacking and making spontaneous (and somewhat chaotic) choices about what to do with my hair.
If you’ve ever read the labels of skincare products, you’d be forgiven for wanting a dictionary to come with them.
Loaded with scientific names and acronyms, it can seem like a whole other language!
You may have heard of one of the most common, AHA, so let’s put it under the spotlight here…
What is AHA?
Short for Alpha-Hydroxy Acid, it’s derived from fruit, dairy and sugar cane. There are different types, including glycolic acid, lactic, acid, malic acid and citric acid.
What do AHAs Do?
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids are designed to dislodge and remove dead skin cells. Without interfering with the skin’s natural moisture barrier, AHAs loosen the ‘glue’ that holds old cells onto the face, letting the new ones shine through. This sort of chemical exfoliation helps to:
- Even out texture, including acne scars
- Improve pigmentation
- Reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Add vibrancy and illumination to dull skin
- Stimulate collagen production
- Add firmness and lift to the face
How to Use AHAs in Alpha-H
AHAs are most commonly found in cleansers, masks and serums. More of a treatment product, they’re nothing to shy away from, but should be used with a bit of caution.
Best to apply 1-3 times a week depending on your skin type, we recommend first of all doing a patch test to ensure that you don’t have reactions.
AHAs can be quite strong, so it pays to slowly build up your complexion’s resistance if you want the best results.
When Can I Expect to See Results from AHAs?
As a rule of thumb, it takes about four to six weeks to fully see results from skincare. This is because our skin-cell turnover cycle lasts about that long, meaning the complete benefits won’t be visible until this has taken place.
The good news is that, unlike other skincare products, there are some instant effects from using AHAs – you’ll find your skin looking more radiant, better hydrated and feeling a bit plumper.
The Best AHA Products from Alpha-H
- Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment 100mlBoosts radiance, evens tone and softens.
- Alpha-H Midnight Reboot Serum 50mlRejuvenates and plumps the skin.
- Alpha-H Micro Super Scrub with 12% Glycolic Acid 100mlExfoliates away dead skin cells and impurities.
- Alpha-H Beauty Sleep Power Peel (50ml)Brightens, smooths, and plumps the skin.
- Alpha-H Liquid Gold Firming Eye Cream Helps reveal bright, radiant, youthful eyes.
Hot Tip: Don't Use Before a Special Event
You may experience a bit of tingling upon applying a product with AHAs. This is completely normal, although discontinue use if it’s very strong.
Reddening may occur after use, as well, and you might notice your skin flaking over the following few days.
Again, it’s nothing to worry about as it just means that all those dead skin cells are coming off and your skin will return to normal in no time. As a result, we don’t recommend using AHAs right before an important event!
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
