The Basics On Aha
What is Aha?
Also known as alpha hydroxy acid, a type of acid used to exfoliate skin and improves signs of aging, dry skin and an uneven skin tone.
What are other names for Aha?
ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS
What is Aha 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. Examples of AHAs used in skincare include1: Citric acid – from citrus fruits Glycolic acid – from sugar cane, grapes and beets Lactic acid – from dairy products Mandelic acid – from bitter almond Malic acid – from fruits such as cherries and apples Phytic acid – from rice Tartaric acid – from grapes AHAs are effective anti-aging agents but often cause skin irritation through use due to their acidic nature3. For example, a typical home-based treatment may use a solution of 70% AHA at a pH of 2 or lower2.
How Aha is classified
Exfoliant
Recommendations for using Aha during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid
Aha During Pregnancy
What we know about using Aha while pregnant or breastfeeding
Limited information available.
N/A
General safety info about Aha from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Coming soon!
Products where you might find Aha
Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant, Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic; The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial 25% AHA + 2% BHA Mask, Farmacy HONEYMOON GLOW AHA Resurfacing Night Serum with Hydrating Honey + Gentle Flower Acids
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.
