One of the most crucial components of a successful at-home clear skin routine is the acids that are selected.
In today’s blog, the Clear Skin Solutions team outlines 5 of the best acids for skin care… and why we recommend them!
First Things First: Why Incorporate Acids Into Your Skin Routine? What Concerns Can They Treat?
It is well-documented that chemical exfoliation is beneficial for myriad skin types and concerns: whether it be in-spa or within the comfort of your own home, chemical exfoliation can work to speed up cellular renewal, which is the process of accelerating essential cell turnover to bring forth healthy new cells, while simultaneously sloughing away the dead skin cells to prevent clogged pores and foster a long-term healthy glow.
Due to their variety of ingredients and strengths, facial acids are one of the best ways to consistently and effectively integrate chemical exfoliation into your existing skin care routine.
Facial acids can treat:
- Dullness
- Acne
- Rosacea
- Dark spots
- Oiliness
- Ingrown hairs
- Dryness
…And so much more.
Without further ado, let’s delve into 5 of the best acids for skin care based on your skin type and concerns.
Acid #1: Multi-Tasking Mandelic Acid for Sensitive Skin
A staple of our skin care, mandelic acid is a multi-tasking saving grace for sensitive skin.
Mandelic acid:
- Is a melanin-inhibitor, granting it the power to prevent dark spots from forming (and fading existing spots!)
- Is packed with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a go-to for preventing and managing acne
- Is popular for its ability to reduce rosacea and hyperpigmentation, while simultaneously working to brighten and firm the skin
- Is slowly absorbed into the skin due to its large molecular structure; because of this, it is particularly suitable for sensitive skin types
Products starring mandelic acid include the Renewal Serum Mandelic, the L-Mandelic Acid 10% Exfoliation Pads, and the Mandelic Cleanser.
Acid #2: Rejuvenating Glycolic Acid for Dull Skin
Best suited to dull, oily, and/or combination skin, glycolic acid is one of the most powerful facial acids available on the market.
Glycolic acid:
- Quickly and consistently promotes cell turnover due to its small molecular structure
- Bolsters collagen and elastin
- Penetrates past the first layer of skin to deeply and thoroughly exfoliate dead skin cells
- Packs anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to decongest skin and foster a long-term glow
Products here at Clear Skin Solutions that feature glycolic acid include the Brighten & Renew – Advanced Glycolic Serum. (Warning: due to its strength, this facial acid is not recommended for use on sensitive skin types!)
Acid #3: Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid for Dehydrated Skin
Hyaluronic acid is a non-negotiable for dry, dehydrated skin: acting as a powerful humectant moisturizer (meaning that it draws and locks in topical hydration long-term), hyaluronic acid is found in our skin naturally and packs a powerful moisture-retention punch due to its ability to hold up to 1000x its weight in water.
Hyaluronic acid:
- Soothes both dry and oily skin types due to its lightweight nature
- Replenishes the skin’s natural moisture and hydration levels
- Softens visible fine lines and wrinkles due to plumping the skin
- Quickens wound healing
Some of our favourite hyaluronic acid-based products include the Balanced Hydration, the HA Complex, the Hydration Basics Kit, and the Hydration Toner.
Acid #4: Pore-Clearing Salicylic Acid for Acneic Skin
As a beta-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid strips cellular debris from pores to eliminate acne-triggers at the source.
Salicylic acid:
- Is oil-soluble, meaning that it has the ability to penetrate deeply into the pores to target bacteria, oil, and debris
- Is anti-inflammatory, making it a go-to for those looking to reduce visible redness, minimize fine lines, and manage sebum production
- Is keratolytic, meaning that it breaks down keratin (the main protein found in your skin’s natural barrier) to thoroughly exfoliate and shed the build-up of dead skin cells
- Is a go-to treatment for blackheads and whiteheads
Looking to incorporate salicylic acid into your existing skin care routine? We would recommend the Salicylic Toner and the Illuminating Serum – Pigment Perfecting.
Acid #5: Brightening Lactic Acid for Mature Skin
One of the mildest alpha hydroxy acids available, lactic acid is popular due to its ability to make skin smooth, soft, and hydrated. It is frequently combined with other acids to create a well-rounded skin care routine.
Lactic acid:
- Like hyaluronic acid, is a humectant, meaning that is balances moisturizing and exfoliating the skin
- Softens rough, dry patches and fosters an even skin tone
- Hydrates and plumps skin long-term
- Provides a gentle chemical exfoliation that is suited for sensitive and/or mature skin types
Add lactic acid to your skin care routine today by mixing in our Lactic Cleanse, Brightening Skin Pads, and RevitA Level 1; additionally, of our Renewal Serums feature lactic acid.
Ask Your Skin Therapist About the Best Acids for Skin Care Today
Of course, general knowledge is no substitute for the in-depth, personalized approach to skin care our Skin Therapists can provide. Contact us today to learn which of these acids we would recommend for your specific skin type, skin concerns, and skin goals!