Stocksy
Hearing the words acid and skincare in the same sentence can be intimidating, especially if you re new to the world of alpha, beta, and poly-hydroxy acids better known as AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. And if you have melanin-rich skin like myself, I m betting you re even more selective about the acids that you choose to use. Fact is, darker complexions are hyper-sensitive and prone to irritation, which can lead to lingering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Yikes!
What do skincare acids do?
Don t know where to start? Here s a primer: You ve got a laundry list of exfoliating ingredients like glycolic and lactic acids (both AHAs) as well as salicylic acid (BHA) to tackle texture, uneven skin tone, clogged pores, breakouts, and wrinkles. You also have hydrating heroes like hyaluronic acid, which addresses dryness and skin elasticity. And then there are PHAs considered newer cousins to AHAs such as gluconolactone and lactobionic acids, which gently exfoliate and boast antio