Learn About Hydroxy Acids

Hydroxy Acids

There are three types of hydroxy acids commonly used in skincare:  alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and polyhydroxy acid (PHA). Each family of acid works in a slightly different fashion, but all of them offer foundational benefits to our skin. Alpha Hydroxy Acids are water soluble and work to exfoliate the surface layers of our skin. In the AHA family, glycolic acid and lactic acids are most commonly used due to their extensive history of effectiveness and tolerance across all skin types. Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil soluble acids that are particularly effective at clearing pores, treating breakouts,  preventing future breakouts, and cleansing oily skin types. Salicylic acid is the most commonly used BHA in over-the-counter skincare products.

 

Hydroxy Acids Used in Joieuse Cleansers

Our clarifying cleanser uses a combination of 3 hydroxy acids from the alpha and beta hydroxy acid families:

 

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Glycolic Acid – Glycolic acid is a water-soluble exfoliator that breaks down pore clogging dead skin cells, resulting in clearer skin and a radiant, revitalized complexion. Glycolic acid also helps minimize fine lines, wrinkles, texture irregularities and discoloration.

Lactic Acid – A powerful anti-aging ingredient, lactic acid acts as both an exfoliant and a humectant, helping to brighten overall complexion and maintain our skin's natural moisture. While lactic acid can be derived from milk, ours is synthetic and therefore considered vegan-friendly.

 

Beta Hydroxy Acids

Salicylic acid – Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that deep cleans troubled skin. It reduces the appearance of imperfections and refines pores by exfoliating dead skin, oil buildup, and impurities.

  

Why We Love Hydroxy Acids

  • Alpha and Hydroxy Acids are the gold standard for exfoliation, and offer a number of benefits when added to a skincare regimen:
    • Stimulates collagen production
    • Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Brightens overall complexion
    • Evens skin tone and reduce discoloration from scars or age spots
    • Keeps pores clean and clear to treat blemishes and prevent future breakouts
  • Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids are naturally occurring ingredients that can be completely derived from plants
  • A combination product using both alpha and beta hydroxy acids is safe and effective for all skin types including sensitive skin and oily or blemish prone skin

 

How Hydroxy Acids Fit in Your Skincare Regimen

  • Hydroxy acids are most commonly found in cleansers and serve as an effective foundation for any skincare regimen
  • If you're new to hydroxy acids, start with occasional use, 2-3 times a week, working up to twice daily use
  • Hydroxy acid use will increase sun sensitivity and it's imperative to finish your morning skincare regimen with a daily sunscreen