Although the world of skincare acids may seem confusing at first glance, knowledge is key to achieving skin care results. These ingredients have many benefits that can be applied to different skin types. Once you are familiar with them, your skin will look healthier. This is your guide to the most common Acids SkinCeuticals and the products you can find.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic Acid is naturally derived from sugarcane and often synthesized in a laboratory. It is one of the most well-known skin care oils. Glycolic Acid is an exfoliating agent that reduces the amount of glue that binds dead skin cells together and promotes their natural shedding. Glycolic Acid is a natural exfoliating ingredient that helps to eliminate dead cells. It improves the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, and uneven skin tone.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is a Beta hydroxy acid with exfoliating properties. This ingredient is particularly effective for those with acne-prone skin. It helps to shed dead skin cells that can clog pores, causing breakouts. It is oil-soluble, which can dissolve oil and sebum within pores. Salicylic Acid’s exfoliating properties can improve the visibility of pores, dullness, texture, uneven skin tone, and dark spots.
L-ascorbic acid
L-ascorbic, the purest form of vitamin C has been extensively studied and shown to have multiple skin benefits. It’s an antioxidant that protects skin from environmental damage. SkinCeuticals founder Dr. Sheldon Pinnell first identified the formula parameters for a vitamin C serum. L-ascorbic acids can also improve visible signs of skin aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines and uneven skin tone.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic Acid is a less-known skincare ingredient, but it deserves a spotlight. Although it can be naturally extracted from wheat, barley, and rye, it is usually synthesized in a laboratory for skin care purposes. It does not have an alpha or beta-hydroxy acids, but it does have exfoliating and antioxidant properties. Azelaic Acid has additional skin benefits such as reducing skin discoloration, scarring, and improved skin clarity. It is also non-comedogenic so that it won’t cause clogged pores.
Hyaluronic Acid
The most well-known and effective hydrating ingredient is, but it’s not an acid. Hyaluronic Acid, a sugar molecule found naturally in the skin, plays a part in maintaining skin hydration. It attracts moisture to the skin and helps the skin retain it. This ingredient is safe for all skin types and is not comedogenic. Hyaluronic acid serums can be used alone or with creams and lotions to provide extra hydration.
