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Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are the new and improved cousins of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). They work as chemical exfoliants, and are therefore useful in skincare. They work slowly, which makes them fairly mild. People with sensitive skin can use PHAs without any problem.
PHAs remove dead skin cells from the uppermost layers of skin to reveal soft, bright skin. If you have dull, tired-looking skin, PHAs are the right ingredient for you. They also have antioxidants that protect the skin from UV damage, and make the skin’s barrier stronger. PHA protects collagen from breaking down, which keeps your skin looking younger for longer.
They are mild, so they work slowly – which may not be what you want. PHAs are exfoliants, so be careful when you start using them, especially if your skin is sensitive or damaged. Skin that reacts to new products may find PHAs irritating, mild as they are. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people with skin infections or open wounds should avoid using PHAs.
Dark spots on your skin is known as hyperpigmentation, age spots, or liver spots. There are several reasons you might experience hyperpigmentation, but those we are referring to today are those that are caused by acne scarring or sun exposure. Dark spots are most common on the face, the shoulders, and the back. There are some dark spots that might appear as a side effect of certain medications. Dark spots are typically harmless, but we always recommend conferring with your dermatologist if you’re experiencing a larger-than-usual area of dark spots, or if they are changing in color, thickness, or appearance in any way.
Hydroquinone, an exfoliator that increases cell turnover to reveal newer skin such as retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, a melanogenesis inhibitor that stops melanosomes from transferring newly produced melanin to other skin cells (such as vitamin C), and vitamin E. (Vitamin E is an antioxidant well known for soothing properties, helping protect from damaging sun while moisturizing and healing skin cells).
PHA may be effective for dark spots, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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