Best Acids for Chemical Exfoliation According to a Dermatologist

Our skin is a multi-layered structure which can be divided into 3 main categories based on their location

• The outermost epidermis
• The dermis
• Subcutaneous fat

The epidermis is our first line of defence against external factors and is comprises of 5 sub-layers. The stratum corneum is the topmost layer of the epidermis. The epidermis is composed of specialized cells and keratin, which makes it very resilient.

The primary cell types found in the epidermis is known as keratinocytes which are manufactures in the basal layer and then pushed to the top. Once they reach the stratum corneum, they develop a thicker cell envelope to become corneocytes.

A healthy stratum corneum shed one layer of corneocytes every day. However, this shedding mechanism is impacted by age, skin type, skin conditions and even the weather.

If corneocytes keep building up, it veils the smooth, plump & bright skin cells lying underneath. This is when exfoliation comes to the rescue.

Types of exfoliation 

Mechanical: These involve physical exfoliates which take off the top dead cell or corneocyte layer. Micro-dermabrasion and the dreaded physical scrubs are examples of mechanical exfoliation.

Chemical: Chemical exfoliation makes used of skin-friendly acids to dissolve the bonds between the dead skin cells, so they slough off effortlessly. It is a gentler alternative and my preferred way of exfoliating.

Types of exfoliating acids 

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA): Usually extracted from plant-based sources, AHA’s are water-soluble so it can work best in the surface level and cannot penetrate through the fatty layers of the skin.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA): Unlike AHA’s, BHA’s are fat-soluble, so they can penetrate deeper into the pores and give deep exfoliation to the skin.

Five acids for Chemical Exfoliation 

1. Glycolic Acid (AHA)

It is usually extracted from sugar cane or other sugar crops and happens to be one of the most studied and researched acid in skincare. Since it has a small molecular size, it is easier for it to permeate through the skin and do its job.

2. Lactic Acid (AHA)

Lactic acid has a humongous molecular size which makes it a very superficial exfoliating agent. It is one of the least irritating acids in skincare because it is unable to go too deep into the skin. Lactic acid is hygroscopic, meaning; it can pull moisture from the surrounding and use it efficiently to hydrate your skin. Although mild, it is still very effective at treating superficial pigmentation and fine lines.

Thus, this acid is a fabulous choice to exfoliate dry skin, sensitive skin and even acne-prone skin which is also dry. It is also a great acid for those who are just dappling into chemical exfoliation.