Acids Are Your Answer to Common Skin Issues
Which skin care acids are good for what? Let this primer help you get clear, healthy skin.
If you’re having concerns with your skin, about acne or dryness or the damage from aging—meaning, if you're essentially a human who wants to look good—then you want to add some acid to your grooming regimen. Acids are seemingly everywhere in skin care these days. And for good reason. They work by helping you get new, healthy skin quicker through a process dermatologists call “turnover.” After all, fresh new skin will always be better than old, dead skin, right? But acids can be intimidating. Especially when so many of us associate the stuff with bubbling chemical burns. But in reality, these highly effective acids are safe but you should know how to use them. To help you target your concern, we've outlined the most popular acids below, along the with recommended products to try.
Breakouts &
Solution
Solution
Salicylic Acid
A man's skin has more active oil glands (and thus larger pores) than a woman's, so breakouts, blackheads and other blockages can happen more frequently. Salicylic acid is good at penetrating deep into the pores and loosening dead skin cells that would otherwise clog pores. A face wash with salicylic acid will help dissolve dead skin, while drying out excess oil and minimizing the appearance of large pores. When you have a zit, its anti-inflammatory properties (especially when combined with bacteria-killing tea tree oil and calming rosemary) will help shrink and heal it fast.
Issue
Issue
Dry skin
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Solution
Hyaluronic Acid
Unlike the other acids that dissolve dead skin, hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant found in the human body that cushions and lubricates skin. We're born with a high amount of hyaluronic acid and the amount in our bodies continues to decrease as we age. Able to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, it hydrates and plumps skin by pulling water into the skin from the atmosphere. It's an effective way to moisturize your skin without glopping on a lot of heavy lotions. In fact, one of the best isn't a cream at all, it's a lightweight gel. And because it's so good at plumping fine lines, hyaluronic acid is ideal for eye creams.
Hydro Boost water gel,
$26.99 / $14.40 by Neutrogena
Hyaluronic eye cream,
$20 by Mario Badescu
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Issue
Issue
Dull, sallow complexion
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Glycolic Acid
By far, the most popular alpha hydroxy acid, it's most recommended by dermatologists because it's so well-received and shows the quickest results. This is because it's the smallest acid in size, meaning the molecules can get deep into the skin. Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is very effective in breaking down skin cells and removing dead particles. The removal of waste and dead skin naturally boosts collagen and elastin production, resulting in smoother skin texture and a brighter complexion. Look for a glycolic toner, which is applied to the skin right after cleansing, allowing it to sink in and get to work.
Glycolic acid toning solution,
$13 by The Ordinary
Glycolic exfoliating and resurfacing wipes, $25 by Anthony
Issue
Issue
Redness, inflammation & acne scarring
Solution
Solution
Lactic Acid
Another alpha hydroxy acid, this is essentially a milder version of glycolic that's the rare acid that's actually a moisturizing exfoliant. A naturally occurring acid—in fact, it's the same molecule responsible for the burn you feel in your muscles—it helps speed up cell renewal and turnover. Because it's so mild, dermatologists recommend it to those with sensitive skin or irritation from acne who want to smooth out rough texture or even out skin-tone. Try a gentle exfoliating cleanser like this one designed to "quell redness and blemishes" or a toner that blends lactic acid with aloe to further calm skin.
A note on results:
A note on results:
Acids will noticeably smooth and even out your skin. You’ll begin to notice the texture improve and pigmentation like freckling lessen—over time. You shouldn’t feel anything and the results aren’t immediate. It takes regular use and a maybe a week or two to see improvement. Skin care pros warn that more product doesn’t make it work faster. And you’ll notice when you’ve overused acids because the skin will become irritated, itchy and red. If this happens, take a break for a few days to let your skin reset.
