AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids are water-soluble compounds that are derived from plant sources and are commonly known as ‘fruit acids’ because of the same reason. From repairing sun-damaged skin to reducing the signs of aging, AHAs can really do it all for you. While glycolic acid is one of the most commonly used AHA in skincare products, there are others like malic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, etc. that are also good in treating certain issues. What's common for all AHAs is that they're all great exfoliators and do not harm the skin at all as scrubs do. We are not saying that all the scrubs are harmful but it's a matter of fact that AHAs are anytime better than scrubs. Here are a few facts that might help you in understanding why AHAs are better for your skin.
- AHAs and BHAs do not irritate your skin as most scrubs do. Scrubs contain abrasive ingredients that might leave tear marks on your skin while damaging it in the longer term. AHAs are comparatively gentle and mild on the skin.
- Scrubs are known to refine the outer surface of the skin for proper cleansing while AHA/BHA exfoliants remove thick, deeper dead skin cells to make it look hydrated, smoother, and younger.
- Our skin's natural pH is acidic hence using an AHA/BHA exfoliant helps in getting better results for skin than a scrub. They're gentler and work in a more effective way.
- A leave-on AHA exfoliant is better than scrub as you can include it in your skincare routine and use other beneficial products along with it.
- A scrub might cause your skin to become flaky and dry but an AHA/BHA exfoliant would never do that. It removes the dead skin cells gently and helps in unclogging pores.
- An AHA/BHA exfoliator can be used even when your skin isn't really dry or dull. It would just improve the quality of your skin and make it look younger, softer, and brighter.
- AHAs combined with other good ingredients like retinol, niacinamide, etc. can prevent your skin from aging and can even improve the appearance of aged/sun-damaged skin.
Here are a few products from Model Off Duty Beauty loaded with the goodness of AHAs you can consider adding to your skincare regimen.
Youth Power + Repair Night Cream
Here are some wonderful non harsh scrubs