Protect skin from sun when using alpha hydroxy acids

As you may know, alpha hydroxy acids are natural exfoliants. Derived from various natural sources (such as fruits), alpha hydroxy acids are used to promote skin shedding and turnover.

This increased shedding reveals healthy, new skin underneath. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's) can be used at home in concentrations up to 10%.

At concentrations higher than this, treatment must be performed by a licensed professional. At the stronger strengths, alpha hydroxy acids work well for salon "mini-peels".

There is a danger associated with regular use of AHA's, and that danger relates to increased sun sensitivity, especially to the UVA component of sunlight.

Products containing alpha hydroxy acids are used to improve skin texture and tone, to open and clean pores, and to improve oily skin and reduce acne.

They are also used to diminish fine lines and surface wrinkles. They are not recommended for use on children or infants.

If you use any products which may contain AHA's, it is wise to use adequate sunscreen as well. This will protect your skin from irritation, stinging, blistering or burning due to increased UV sensitivity.

What if you're not sure whether your skin care products contain AHA's? One way to figure this out would be by reading the product label. The most common types of alpha hydroxy acids are lactic acid (made from milk) and glycolic acid (made from sugar cane). However, products may also contain AHA's such as:

• sugar cane extract
• malic acid
• hydroxycaprylic acid
• citric acid
• glycolic acid + ammonium glycolate
• triple fruit acid
• alpha-hydroxycaprylic acid
• mixed fruit acid
• tri-alpha hydroxy fruit acids
• alpha-hydroxyoctanoic acid
• alpha hydroxy and botanical complex
• L-alpha hydroxy acid
• glycomer in crosslinked fatty acids alpha nutrium
• alpha-hydroxyethanoic acid + ammonium alpha-hydroxyethanoate

If your skin care or cosmetic products contain any of these ingredients (or others identified as alpha hydroxy acids), please do use sunscreen regularly. Not only will this keep your skin from reacting negatively to the sun, it will also help prevent wrinkles from developing, too!

Learn more about alpha hydroxy acids