Your skin has a natural barrier known as the stratum corneum. Its job is to keep moisture in and infectious agents out. But to do its job properly it needs to grow new basal cells (skin cells).
AHAs are believed to stimulate the skin’s collagen production, and in turn, enhance the naturally occlusive, protective skin barrier.
New skin growth pushes out the old, dry cells through exfoliation, leaving behind fresh skin that feels smooth and elastic.
But did you know that AHAs also do so much more for your skin? But many of their amazing qualities are clouded in misconceptions and myths.
You should know about your skin, and you should know about the reason you find an ingredient in your skincare products. Ready to know the truth?
Let's bust some myths:
Myth 1: AHAs make your skin thinner. Fact: Nope, they actually thicken it by promoting collagen and making it plumper.
Myth 2: Don’t use products with AHAs, they will make your skin burn when exposed to the sun. Fact: When used properly, along with proper sunscreen, your skin should be fine. It is also important to consider the product’s pH, AHA chemical peels done by aestheticians or medical professionals have much lower pH levels than retail products increasing the importance of protecting your skin after treatments. Any products that contain over 5% AHA are required by law to put a sunscreen warning. Products with 15% or more AHA may cause your skin to become sensitive. At Dermal Therapy, the highest AHA amount of AHA you’ll find in our products is 10%. It is also important to consider the product’s pH, our products have neutral pH levels making them safer and gentler on your skin.
Myth 3: Salicylic Acid or scrubs are the same as AHAs. Fact: AHAs go deeper, working on collagen and structure, while salicylic acid and scrubs do a great job at surface cleansing.
Myth 4: AHAs just exfoliate for softer skin. Fact: They actually thicken your skin and promote new collagen to fight wrinkles.
Myth 5: AHAs just make skin look smoother due to inflammation. Fact: Not true! They make skin plump and better even after you stop using them.
In a nutshell, AHAs are like the smart architects of your skin, building it up and making it look amazing!