Chemical Exfoliants
Welcome to Part 3 of the Skincare series. Today we discuss the types & effects of chemical exfoliants.
When people hear "chemical exfoliants", they fear that it will damage the skin, which can be true if used carelessly. But if you do your research well, and find the right product, with the perfect amount of chemical or acid, it can do wonders for your skin. You should always check the ingredients. Also make sure to note how to use it and how long can you keep it on your skin, as some chemical exfoliants should not be left more than 15 minutes. As exfoliants make the skin sensitive to the sun, always use SPF.
Below mentioned are 3 types of chemical exfoliants :
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
Suitable for combination, acne prone, normal to dry skin. They work on the surface of the skin to improve its texture, acne marks, unclog pores, remove dead cells and hyperpigmentation. Beginners should start with using just 5% AHA concentration. It makes skin sensitive to sun so avoid going out. Always moisturize after application. Hyaluronic acid is great for soothing, after using AHA.
They tend to come from fruits, but can also be produced synthetically. Well known types of AHAs are citric, glycolic, and lactic acid. These help to treat :
*Citric - Acne, dark spots, mature, oily, sun damage.
*Glycolic - Acne, dark spots, dry, ingrown hair, mature, oily, sun damage and scarring.
*Lactic - dark spots, dry, ingrown hair, mature, sensitive, sun damage.
Avoid using with Retinol, Vitamin C, Niacinamide.
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)
It is suitable for oily, acne prone and combination skin. BHA goes deeper into the pores, clearing all the dead skin and excess sebum, that further forms acne. Salicylic acid is one of the famous known BHA. 1 to 2 percent BHA is effective for skin. It can be used twice a week. It can leave the skin to be dry, so moisturize well.
Effects of BHA - reduces acne, dark spots, ingrown hair, scarring, and oily skin.
Do not mix BHA with Retinoids and Vitamin C.
PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid)
It is a gentle exfoliant which is suitable for all skin types. PHAs exfoliate dead skin cells from the surface of the skin which makes the skin smoother, more hydrated and firm. It can be used regularly. PHA is a gentler cousin of AHA and BHA. It is best for those who are just getting started with acid exfoliation. They are perfect for acne prone skin.
Below are few well known types of PHAs and their effects :
*gluconolactone/galactosen - to treat dry, mature, sensitive skin.
* lactobionic acid - treats dark spots, dry mature, oily, sensitive skin.
Avoid using PHA with Vitamin C and Retinol.
Read more of the Skincare series :
Bonus Skincare for on the Go
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Main Write up by Shreya Acharekar
Edited by Abigail D'cruz
Hope you guys found this helpful. In the next blog, the final post of the series, we discuss three more types of chemical exfoliants. Comment below what do you think about chemical exfoliants. Share with your friends, & make sure to follow for more amazing reads.
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