How to Pick The Right Skin Acids for Your Skincare Concerns

Using the right skin acids can make a difference in your skincare routine. Skin acids, also known as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), are powerful ingredients that can help address various skin concerns like acne, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, dullness and dehydrated skin.

However, with so many acids available, such as glycolic, salicylic, lactic, and more, knowing which one will work best for your skin type and condition can get confusing. This blog breaks down the commonly used skin acids, their benefits, and how to choose the right acid to target your particular skin goals.

Best Acids for Skin

Here are some of the best skin acids that you should consider for your skincare routine:

• Salicylic AcidSalicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates and unclogs pores, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. It penetrates deep into the skin and clears away dead skin cells, dirt, debris, and bacteria that cause acne and breakouts. And if you're wondering f salicylic acid is good for acne, it also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling.

• Glycolic AcidGlycolic acid is the most popular alpha hydroxy acid known for its versatility. It exfoliates the top layer of the skin to reveal newer cells underneath. Using skincare products containing glycolic acid can give smooth, radiant, and even-toned skin. Glycolic is great for treating acne, pigmentation, fine lines, dull skin, and clogged pores. It even pairs great with different actives – like using glycolic acid and niacinamide together can tackle hyperpigmentation and acne – making it a powerhouse combination.

• Lactic AcidLactic acid is an AHA derived from milk. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin types. It can help remove dead skin cells and increase cell turnover to give brighter, plumper-looking skin. Skincare products containing lactic acid can help boost collagen production to reduce signs of ageing. Lactic acid also has hydrating benefits to combat dryness.

• Hyaluronic AcidHyaluronic acid is not an exfoliating acid but attracts and binds moisture to the skin to give intense hydration. It plumps skin cells with water, making the skin look dewy, smooth and youthful. Hyaluronic acid can help reduce the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration.

• Tranexamic AcidA newer skin acid, tranexamic acid, can help lighten dark spots and melasma caused by sun exposure and hormones. When used regularly, it prevents pigment from forming and evens out the skin tone for a flawless complexion. The Pink Foundry's Dark Spot & Hyperpigmentation Correcting Power Serum can help reduce the appearance of dark marks, improve brightness, and minimise the recurrence of discolouration.

• Mandelic AcidMandelic acid has larger molecules that penetrate skin slower and gently, making it well-suited for sensitive or dry skin. It provides light exfoliation to improve skin texture, unclog pores, fade pigmentation and reduce fine lines with minimal irritation.

Skin Acids for Different Skin Concerns

Here is a quick guide on choosing the right skin acid as per your skin type and concern:

Best Acid for Acne-Prone Skin: Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid, an oil-soluble BHA, is the gold standard for clearing acne and breakouts fast. It can help keep pores clean and prevent future blemishes. One can start with a 2% salicylic every alternate night. The Pink Foundry's Acne & Oil Control Intense Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid can treat and prevent acne with a time-released formulation.

Best Acid for Hyperpigmentation: Tranexamic, Glycolic and Lactic Acids

These three acids synergistically inhibit melanin production and exfoliate pigmented skin cells. For best results against stubborn sun spots and melasma, consult a dermatologist before using them together.

Best Acid for Fine Lines and Wrinkles: AHAs like Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid can help boost collagen, plump skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A 5-8% glycolic acid serum or cream can ease into daily use.

Best Acid for Dry or Dehydrated Skin: Hyaluronic Acid

Try skincare products containing hyaluronic acid if you have dry, flaky skin. Look for serums with 1-2% hyaluronic acid and use them twice daily after applying a toner. Follow with a rich moisturiser to lock in hydration. The Pink Foundry's Waterlight Gel Moisturiser 72-Hour Hydration is designed to give instant supple, soft, and hydrated skin.

Best Acid for Sensitive Skin: Mandelic acid and lactic acid

Gentler skin acids, like mandelic and lactic acids, are less likely to cause redness or irritation on sensitive skin. They provide light exfoliation to improve texture without disrupting the skin's protective barrier.

How to Choose the Right Acid for Your Skin

With myriad skin acids available, one needs an informed approach to pick the right acid for your skin. Here are some tips to consider:

• Understand your skin type and concerns (e.g., oily, dry, combination, sensitive) to pick the best acid.

• Start with a lower concentration (2-5%) and patch test to prevent irritation.

• Incorporate acids slowly (1-2 times a week) into your skincare routine to avoid over-exfoliation.

• Use additional hydration and SPF 30 sunscreen during the day when using acids.

Conclusion

Skin acids are active ingredients that should be chosen carefully based on one's skin goals. Using the right acids, like glycolic for anti-ageing, salicylic for acne or hyaluronic acid for dry skin, can lead to visible skin texture and appearance improvement over time.

If you have sensitive skin or specific skin issues, consult a dermatologist to determine which acids will benefit your skin without causing damage. It is crucial to be diligent with SPF protection when using acids in skincare.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section explores the most frequently asked questions on acids in skincare:

What is the best acid for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid is the best for clearing up acne and preventing future breakouts. This BHA can help exfoliate the pores from the inside to keep them unclogged.

Can I use glycolic acid every day?

It's best to use glycolic acid once or twice a week before increasing the frequency to avoid over-exfoliation. Once skin builds tolerance, one can use it once or twice daily based on their skin's needs.

Which acid is best for ageing skin?

Experts highlight that Glycolic acid is a good anti-ageing ingredient. It can help smooth out wrinkles and fine lines and boost collagen better than most alpha hydroxy acids.

Are there any acids for sensitive skin?

Lactic acid and mandelic acid offer gentle exfoliation for sensitive or dry skin without causing redness or irritation. One should start by applying skincare products containing these acids 1-2 times a week.