The Basics On Polyhydroxy Acid
What is Polyhydroxy Acid?
The second generation of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are chemical exfoliants; examples include gluconolactone and lactobionic acid.
What are other names for Polyhydroxy Acid?
12-HYDROXYSTEARIC ACID ESTOLIDE, OCTADECANOIC ACID, 12HYDROXY, HOMOPOLYMER, POLYHYDROXYOCTADECANOIC ACID, and POLYHYDROXYSTEARIC ACID
What is Polyhydroxy Acid used for?
It has been reported that Poly-Hydroxy Acids provide similar effects for our skin as AHAs but do not cause the sensory irritation responses2. Such responses can limit the use of classical AHAs. In addition, it was found that PHAs provide the following skin benefits2: Sensitive Skin Care PHAs have been found to be compatible with clinically sensitive skin, including rosacea and atopic dermatitis, and can be used after cosmetic procedures Humectant and Moisturisation Properties PHAs provide additional humectant and moisturization properties compared with AHAs and can enhance stratum corneum barrier function, therefore increasing the skin’s resistance to chemical challenge. Antioxidant Properties Most PHAs also possess antioxidant properties Acne Treatment PHA-containing products were used in combination with retinoic acid in treating adult facial acne and were found to be well tolerated Anti-aging Properties PHAs plus retinyl acetate (pro-vitamin A) in a cream base exhibited significant antiaging skin benefits such as skin smoothing and plumping Skin Lightening Properties PHAs plus hydroquinone showed excellent improvement in anti-aging and skin lightening parameters Broad Application PHA-containing products were shown to be compatible with African American, Caucasian, and Hispanic/Asian skin and provided significant improvements in photoaging in these populations.
How Polyhydroxy Acid is classified
Exfoliant
Recommendations for using Polyhydroxy Acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Limited data suggests no known risk
Polyhydroxy Acid During Pregnancy
What we know about using Polyhydroxy Acid while pregnant or breastfeeding
Limited information available.
N/A
General safety info about Polyhydroxy Acid from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Products where you might find Polyhydroxy Acid
Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Face Mask, The INKEY List Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) Gentle Exfoliating Toner, OLEHENRIKSEN PHAT Glow Facial Mask
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. Green B, Yu R, Van S. Clinical and cosmeceutical uses of hydroxyacids. Clin Dermatol. 2009;27(5):495-501. [PubMed] 2. Grimes P, Green B, Wildnauer R, Edison B. The use of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in photoaged skin. Cutis. 2004;73(2 Suppl):3-13. [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.
