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Herbal Luxuries uses alpha hydroxy (AHA) from fruits and natural sources and beta hydroxy (BHA) acids like Salicylic acid in our skin care products. Fruit acids are weak organic acids and are derived from various sources such as, grapes, apples, sugar cane, maple, pineapple, papaya, willow bark, lemon, lime, sour milk, blackberries, yogurt and cider. Fruit acids are natural exfoliants that perform a number of functions at the level of the stratum corneum on the skins surface. They loosen and dissolve dead cells from the skins surface and help to regenerate new skin cells, aid in the control of acne, smooth rough dry skin, improve the texture of sun-damaged and aging skin and retain moisture which leaves your skin healthy and vibrant.
The most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids are glycolic, lactic, malic, citric and tartaric acids. Lactic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin and is produced by our muscles when we work out. Lactic acid build up is in fact what gives muscles cramping when they are over exerted. The most common acids used in skin care are lactic and glycolic acids. Those people who are allergic to the more commonly found glycolic acids should do very well with lactic acid products because they are a naturally occurring substance in the skin.
All of the alpha hydroxy acids (fruit acids) serve to exfoliate the skin and leave your skin with a better appearance. They should not be used too often at high concentrations because they can leave the skin quite dry and in some cases irritated. At least one alpha hydroxy acid product should be a part of everyone's regular skin care regimen.
Beta Hydroxy and Special Benefits
Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy (BHA) acid derived from the bark of the willow tree. Beta hydroxy acids have a larger molecule than their cousin, alpha hydroxy acids. The larger molecule size keeps the beta hydroxy acid on the surface of the skin allowing it to more effectively penetrate and exfoliate within the pore. This action within the pores make it an ideal exfoliant for use on acne and acne-prone skin. The larger molecule size of salicylic acid produces less irritation than alpha hydroxy acids, making it a welcome alternative for those with sensitive skin.
Salicylic Acid is best on acne-prone and sensitive skin types. The pore-cleansing properties of salicylic acid make it a more effective comedone fighter. Those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate alpha hydroxy acids may find that they are able to use salicylic acid with good results. However, alpha hydroxy acid's penetration into the deeper layers of the skin produce better anti-wrinkle and anti-aging benefits.
Look for concentrations of 1-2% in any salicylic acid product to assure an effective concentration. A 1% concentration would be better for sensitive skin types and a 2% concentration would be useful on stubborn acne. Salicylic Acid has not been tested on pregnant women, so safety during pregnancy is not known. However to be safe it should not be used by persons who are pregnant, breast-feeding, or allergic to aspirin.
As an exfoliant, salicylic acid can actually increase the benefits of other therapies used in conjunction with it. However, care should be taken to watch for signs of excess irritation. If irritation occurs, then it would not be a good idea to continue combining therapies. For acne prone skin, retinol makes a good adjunct therapy for salicylic acid.
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. |
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