The Basics On Alpha Hydroxy Acid
What is Alpha Hydroxy Acid?
A class of chemical compounds that consist of a carboxylic acid substituted with a hydroxyl group.
What are other names for Alpha Hydroxy Acid?
ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS
What is Alpha Hydroxy Acid used for?
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (also known as AHAs), often referred to as fruit acids, are a common ingredient found in many cosmeceutical products. In chemical terms, AHAs are carboxylic acids with one hydroxyl group attached to the α-position of the carboxyl group1. AHAs are naturally occurring acids whose range of application extends from skin moisturizing, wrinkle reduction to deep chemical peeling of the skin2. They act by inducing exfoliation in our skin and accelerating the natural skin cell rejuvenation cycle.
How Alpha Hydroxy Acid is classified
Exfoliant
Recommendations for using Alpha Hydroxy Acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid
Alpha Hydroxy Acid During Pregnancy
What we know about using Alpha Hydroxy Acid while pregnant or breastfeeding
Limited information available.
N/A
General safety info about Alpha Hydroxy Acid from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Coming soon!
Products where you might find Alpha Hydroxy Acid
Paula’s Choice RESIST Daily Smoothing Treatment with 5% Alpha Hydroxy Acid;SkinCeuticals Conditioning Toner;Credentials Renewal System Glycolic Facial Tonic;Rejuvi k Facial Cleanser;DERMAdoctor KP “Double” Duty Dermatologist AHA Moisturizing Therapy for Dry Skin Dual Pack; Alpha-H Liquid Gold Ultimate Perfecting Mask with Glycolic, Ferulic and Lactic Acids;Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel;Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Mini;The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA;Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel for Sensitive Skin
List of References
General sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/
1. Kornhauser A, Coelho S, Hearing V. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2010;3:135-142. [PubMed] 2. Babilas P, Knie U, Abels C. Cosmetic and dermatologic use of alpha hydroxy acids. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2012;10(7):488-491. [PubMed] 3. Kessler E, Flanagan K, Chia C, Rogers C, Glaser D. Comparison of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid chemical peels in the treatment of mild to moderately severe facial acne vulgaris. Dermatol Surg. 2008;34(1):45-50; discussion 51. [PubMed] 4. Wang X. A theory for the mechanism of action of the alpha-hydroxy acids applied to the skin. Med Hypotheses. 1999;53(5):380-382. [PubMed]
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
