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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.
Sunspots are rather common. They are also called liver spots or solar lentigines. Anyone can have sunspots; however, those who are more fair-skinned, or older than 40-years-old are more susceptible to sunspots. Sunspots tend to be pretty harmless, and it is more of a personal preference if you choose to treat them. The most predictable areas for sunspots to appear are on the back of the hands, the face, your shoulders, and forearms. They are easy to identify, as they are flat brown spots that develop to sun exposure. Real sunspots are harmless and are noncancerous. However, if you see change in your spots or new ones appearing, it is always recommended to have your dermatologist examine your skin for good health.
Vitamin E, vitamin C, and ferulic acid work well to not only lighten the sunspots but to help maintain the elasticity of your skin. Vitamin E protects the skin against the damaging affects of the sun, which can make more sunspots or make the ones you already have appear darker. Combining vitamin E and vitamin C can also help lighten existing sunspots.
PHA may be effective for sun 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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