PHA

PHA has emerged as a gentler alternative to the relatively harsher skincare acid treatments, the AHAs and the BHAs. Who isn’t scared of the dreadful irritation that accompanies skin treatments?

While the AHAs and the BHAs are intense, the PHAs provide seamless resurfacing and skin-clarifying benefits with far less irritation. The underlying biochemistry of the polyhydroxy acids makes them gentler on the skin. This article will uncover how PHA is the go-to remedy for people wanting smooth, glowing skin.

What is PHA?

Polyhydroxy acid, or PHA, is a star ingredient in skincare products developed for sensitive skin. Its fantastic combination of exfoliation and hydration properties has made PHA a buzzword in the industry.

Unlike the alpha and the beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs), the larger molecular design of the PHAs prevents extensive intrusion inside the skin. The result is mild but effective shedding dead skin cells without the typical inflammation and irritation associated with such derma care products.

Notably, the humectant properties of PHAs make moisture retention in the skin easier. Hydrophilic in nature, PHAs bind water molecules to give you the plump and youthful appearance that you constantly desire.

So, if you’re looking for the best skin care product with PHA, try the Pore Refining & Soothing Clay Mask by The Pink Foundry. It contains Cica extract, which includes 2% PHA. This gentle yet effective concentration of PHA works to exfoliate and brighten the skin while providing hydration benefits lightly.

What are the types of PHAs?

Let us have a look at the best types of PHAs.

• Lactobionic Acid

It is an oxidised form of milk. Lactobionic acid works as an exfoliator and a humectant, helping your skin retain moisture.

• Galactose

As the name suggests, it is a sugar in milk. Although less known than the other types of PHAs, it works well to exfoliate your skin gently.

• Gluconolactone

It is one of the most well-known types of PHA because it offers added benefits in addition to exfoliating your skin. Gluconolactone offers hydration and antioxidant benefits to the skin.

What does polyhydroxy acid do in skincare products?

PHAs have a relatively larger molecular structure than other hydroxy acids. They dissolve the existing bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. This lifting off of dead skin cells mitigates signs of sun skin damage, such as dark spots and uneven pigmentation.

As great exfoliators as they are, PHAs also have humectant properties. They help the skin retain water and get a plump and glowing appearance. The exfoliation and hydration properties of the PHAs encourage new cell turnover and production of collagen.

How are PHAs different from AHAs and BHAs?

PHA, or polyhydroxy acid, is a fruity acid. It is one of the most preferred ingredients for sensitive skin care products. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are the other types of hydroxy acids used extensively in skincare products.

All three are used to reverse conditions such as sun damage and the appearance of wrinkles and make the skin look more toned and hydrated. Like lactic and glycolic acids, AHAs can be added to skin care products to cure acne, dark spots, and ageing. They can result in skin swelling and burning sensations.

BHAs, like salicylic acid, are mostly suggested for oily and acne-prone skin. They possess an anti-inflammatory nature. While BHAs are less irritating than AHAs, most studies highlight that PHAs are much less likely to irritate the skin than other hydroxy acids.

PHA benefits in skincare

Top Benefits of using PHAs for skincare are:

1. Daily Exfoliation

The molecular design of the PHAs allows them to dissolve the binding glue between the dead skin cells lightly. This skims away the debris and reveals bright, smooth, and shining skin.

2. Hydration Boost

Their humectant properties bind moisture in the skin cells. Their hydrophilicity replaces dryness with bouncy suppleness.

3. Removal of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Regular use of PHAs has been shown to stimulate collagen production in the skin. It ramps up elasticity and the arrangement of structural skin proteins. The work of PHAs in improving overall firmness and softening fine lines and wrinkles is no magic, but nothing less.

4. Repairing Sun Damage

PHAs remove the top dull layer of derma cells. They enhance cell turnover to clear up dark spots, uneven pigmentation, and other signs of skin damage. The renewed growth of cells helps restore skin clarity and tonality.

Precautions while using polyhydroxy acid

Here are some precautions you could consider while using skincare products based on PHAs.

• You could start with a skincare product with a PHA concentration of 5% or less and gradually increase the concentration if needed.

• Follow the directions on the product package. Some PHA products can be left overnight, while others need to be rinsed off after a certain time.

• You should discontinue using PHAs if you experience stinging, burning, redness, or peeling. These are the signs of exfoliation. Allow your skin to heal and rebegin use at a lower concentration.

• Overusing skin care products based on PHAs can lead to overexfoliation. To avoid over-exfoliation, consider using PHA-based products only once or twice weekly.

Conclusion

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are a class of fruity acids used extensively in skincare products. Their mild action on sensitive skin has made PHAs a buzzword in the industry. This article shows how PHAs have emerged as a game-changing alternative to the harsher AHAs and BHAs. The anti-ageing effects and smooth and glowing skin results accompanying PHAs are worth the try.