Slightly confused about what you should use when it comes to skincare? We wouldn’t blame you. There are a whole lot of options out there, depending on everything from your skin type, to concerns and sensitivities, as well as budget and personal preferences.
But then it can get even more confusing when you throw acids into the mix.
So, to break everything down and make it super simple, we’re going to go through what they are, who should use acids and how to use them, with the help of Pamela, our Senior Skincare Expert.
Why even use acids? According to Pamela, face acids are miracle ingredients to fight different skin concerns such as uneven skin tone, breakouts, dryness, pigmentation, scarring and premature ageing. Face acids can be found in various products such as cleansers, serums, and masks. So what does what?
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic Acid is an AHA water-soluble ingredient. When used, it sheds dead skin cells and reveals the newer, brighter layer. It has several benefits like smoother skin, more radiant skin and minimising fine lines. Always approach with caution if you have sensitive skin. If you feel tingling on your skin, just add water.
Lactic Acid
Lactic Acid removes dead skin cells, lightens dark spots and improves fine fines, it speeds up cell
turnover and stimulates cell turnover. As a result of this, skin is brighter & skin is smoother. Lactic Acid is more gentle compared to other acids, it helps improves the skin's natural moisture
factor. It's less drying and more moisturising.
Salicylic Acid
Salicyclic Acid has many benefits such as exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogging pores, allows for deeper penetration of products. When it penetrates the skin it dissolves skin debris and oils so it treats blackheads and whiteheads really well. If you are battling against breakouts, Salicylic Acid is a breakout’s worse nightmare!
Ferulic Acid
Ferulic Acid is a powerful antioxidant that is commonly used in conjunction with Vitamin
C and E. This trio together is well known for its ability to protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals generated by UV radiation. Its benefits include neutralising free radicals, reducing the formation of brown spots and boosting the effects of Vitamins C and E.
But to make things even more simple, for those with problematic skin, opt for salicylic, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or azelaic acid.
Concerned about premature ageing? Glycolic acid, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, or ferulic acid will be your best friend.
If you have pigmented skin, then kojic acid, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, or ferulic acid is for you.
Last but not least, for those with sensitive skin, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, or kojic acid is for you.
Ready for Pamela’s top picks? Look no further!
IMAGE Clear Cell Clarifying Gel Cleanser
A Salicylic based gel that gently removes makeup and eliminates excess oil from the skin to leave it smooth, soft and shine-free. Shop here.
SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight
A daily cleanser that exfoliates and gently removes make-up & tones for ultimate skin balance. Suitable for normal/combination skintypes. Shop here.
Environ Focus Care Moisture+ Alpha Hydroxy Night Cream
To be used only in your evening routine, Environ Focus Care uses glycolic and lactic acids to aid the natural cell turnover of the skin. Helps to retexturise the skin giving a more radiant and refreshed look. Shop here.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
C E Ferulic is ideal for reducing lines and wrinkles, as well as boosting skin firmness and brightening the complexion. Shop here.
