How do Alpha Hydroxy acids work?

A. Alpha Hydroxy acids work as exfoliants. By speeding up the skins own natural shedding process (which slows down as we get older), they encourage the skin to shed its surface coating of dead cells and replace them with new ones at a faster rate. Alpha Hydroxy acids are discriminatory exfoliaters, as they remove only the cells that are already dead and allow the live, healthy ones to remain. The difference between physical exfoliants, such as scrubs or loofahs and chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy acids), is that the former apply force to physically remove the dead cells from the skins surface, while the latter exfoliates by breaking up the intercellular glue that causes skin cells to stick together.  more

Alpha Hydroxy Acids work as exfoliants by speeding up the skins own natural shedding process (which slows down as we get older), thereby encouraging the skin to shed its surface coating of dead cells and replacing them with new ones at a faster rate. AHAs effectively moisturizes dry and severely dry skin.  more

Alpha hydroxy acids work mainly as exfoliants, causing dead skin cells in the epidermis or skin’s top layer, to separate from one another. The result is skin that sloughs off and can be removed easily allowing new skin cells to resurface. Studies have shown that alpha hydroxy acids may also encourage elastin and collagen production, two components that contribute to firm, smooth and toned skin. Skin benefits associated with alpha hydroxy acids include an improvement in wrinkles, skin roughness, skin discoloration and sun damage. Though benefits will be noticeable soon after use, best results are obtained over the course of several months. Studies have shown alpha hydroxy acids to be most effective at concentrations above 8%. Concentrations above 15 – 20% are generally best left to be administered by qualified specialists because of side effects that may be associated with their use. And, they should also be formulated at a low ph in order for them to exert beneficial effect. ...  more

Alpha hydroxy acids act as exfoliants, allowing for the removal of dead skin cells in the skin's top layer or epidermis. They exert this action by helping skin cells to separate from one another, thereby expediting the process. This allows for new skin cells to come to the surface giving skin a glowing appearance. There is also evidence to show that alpha hydroxy acids can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin production which decline as a result of aging. The benefits are many: smoother, firmer skin with an even tone. Alpha hydroxy acids are used to improve skin wrinkling, skin roughness, skin discoloration and sun damage. Results will be noticeable soon after use, with maximum results noticed after several months of use. Usage should be continued to enjoy benefits. Concentrations above 8% tend to deliver best results with higher concentrations, certainly those above 15 - 20%, best left in the hands of qualified skin care professionals due to potential for side effects. ...  more

Alpha Hydroxy acids work as exfoliants. By speeding up the skins own natural shedding process (which slows down as we get older), they encourage the skin to shed its surface coating of dead cells and replace them with new ones at a faster rate. Alpha Hydroxy acids are discriminatory exfoliaters, as they remove only the cells that are already dead and allow the live, healthy ones to remain. The difference between physical exfoliants, such as scrubs or loofahs and chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy acids), is that the former applies force to physically remove the dead cells from the skins surface, while the latter exfoliates by breaking up the intercellular glue that causes skin cells to stick together. Glycolic acid is the AHA of choice.  more