Stocksy
Hearing the words acid and skincare in the same sentence can be intimidating, especially if you re new to the world of alpha, beta, and poly-hydroxy acids better known as AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. And if you have melanin-rich skin like myself, I m betting you re even more selective about the acids that you choose to use. Fact is, darker complexions are hyper-sensitive and prone to irritation, which can lead to lingering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Yikes!
What do skincare acids do?
Don t know where to start? Here s a primer: You ve got a laundry list of exfoliating ingredients like glycolic and lactic acids (both AHAs) as well as salicylic acid (BHA) to tackle texture, uneven skin tone, clogged pores, breakouts, and wrinkles. You also have hydrating heroes like hyaluronic acid, which addresses dryness and skin elasticity. And then there are PHAs considered newer cousins to AHAs such as gluconolactone and lactobionic acids, which gently exfoliate and boast antio
← Use Arrow Keys → The Best Exfoliating Acids to Use If You Have Sensitive Skin (and Exactly How to Use Them)
From pore-cleaning salicylic acid to line-smoothing retinol, some of the most effective ingredients in our skin-care routines are acids. Used excessively or incorrectly, however, acids can also cause irritation, redness, and inflammation, which means if you ve got sensitive skin, chances are you ve probably ruled them off already.
actually improve skin sensitivities over time. Understanding which ingredients to choose, how frequently to use them, and, more specifically, the formula best suited for your sensitivity, tends to be where the confusion lies. To find out more, we spoke to leading dermatologists about how to incorporate acids into your routine safely and effectively, as well as the best formulas designed specifically for sensitive skin.