AHA lotion aka Alpha Hydroxy Acid lotion is known as one of the best and safest skincare products to retain proper moisture and hydration.
Due to the high acid concentration in these lotions, the surface of the skin is gently exfoliated and new cells are formed. So, with regular use, you will be able to achieve a healthier texture and brighter complexion along with treating numerous other skin concerns.
What makes AHA lotions different from regular moisturizers is that they are enriched with plant-based and nutrient-rich ingredients like Vitamin A, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and various Antioxidants.
Altogether, these make AHA lotions some of the most effective remedies to treat dry patches, flaky skin, acne, wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, ingrown hair, sunburnt skin, etc.
Certain AHA lotions are also designed for targeting harder-to-treat skin conditions like Keratosis Pilaris, Eczema, strawberry skin, etc.
When it comes to AHA in skincare products like body lotion, it is usually incorporated in anti-aging products like serums, toners, daily concentrated treatments, creams, and of course, lotions.
Although you can go for a serum or toner, using an AHA body lotion will cater to your needs further as you can use it in larger areas of your body, not just keep the benefits limited to your face.
As for the ingredients, most AHA creams and body lotions include a few common ones like Alpha Hydroxy, Beta Hydroxy, and Polyhydroxy acids.
These help to exfoliate the surface of your skin, thus making it smoother and softer. There are other primary ingredients applied in AHA lotion products, some of which consist of the following.
| Acid | Origin |
|---|---|
| Malic Acid | Fruits |
| Citric Acid | Citrus fruits |
| Glycolic Acid | Sugarcane |
| Hydroxycaproic Acid | Royal jelly |
| Lactic Acid | Lactose or Carbohydrates |
| Hydroxycaprylic Acid | Animals |
8 Amazing Benefits of Using AHA Lotion
Okay – so you have already read so much about lotions with AHA and now it’s time that you learn about its key benefits. Although it has numerous nourishing properties, we have enlisted only a few. Check them out below.
Aid in Exfoliating Process
When dead skin cells accumulate around the face, hands, legs, or other parts of the body, they can destroy the complexion of your skin and reduce your confidence around people.
AHA products are a great aid to exfoliating your skin as these do not only get rid of dead cells but also create room for new skin generation.
Skin Brightening Properties
As you already know from our previous sections, AHA is known for exfoliating and regenerating radiant skin. The Citric Acid in AHA products brightens up the skin while Glycolic Acid gets rid of the dead skin cells. The result – bright and vibrant skin all the way!
Collagen Production
It’s natural to expose yourself to a lot of sunlight over the years. The sad thing is that by doing so, the collagen fiber present in your body reduces and causes your skin to sag and sallow.
Fortunately, AHA products accelerate collagen production by destroying the dead collagen tissues and promoting new ones, leading to a smooth and healthy skin texture.
Wrinkle Reduction
Wrinkles are unavoidable as you age; however, AHA lotions reduce the appearancezź of wrinkles on your face and give you that younger look you cherish so much.
Aid in Blood Flow
Achieving a nice and plump look in your skin has a lot to do with proper blood circulation. The moment the blood flow slows down, the skin appears pale and dull.
Thankfully, AHA lotions contain inflammatory properties which accelerate blood flow to the surface of your skin. As a result, your skin gets enough oxygen and remains rejuvenated throughout the day.
Reduction of Skin Discoloration
As surprising as it may sound, skin discoloration is quite a common issue among many. Usually, the culprit behind skin discoloration is sun exposure, melisma, or old age.
However, let that not discourage you from loving your bare skin because consistent use of AHA lotion promotes the turnover of the discolored cells and gives you a healthy and bright complexion.
Acne Prevention and Treatment
If you have ever suffered from acne, then you probably already know how it can be stubborn and keep reappearing for a long time.
An AHA lotion may be the best solution you need to combat this recurring acne. As AHA exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells, it prevents acne by fighting against clogged pores.
Increase of Moisture Absorption
Ever feel like your skincare items are not working properly no matter how much you apply? Well, the accumulation of dead cells in your body might be the very reason behind this.
When you use an AHA lotion with Glycolic Acid, it exfoliates the dead cells on your body and stimulates fast absorption of your moisturizer and other skincare items. As a result, you achieve your desired skin condition in a short period.
What to Look for in the Best AHA Body Lotion for You?
It’s no secret that different skin types react differently with different lotions. What may work for you may cause harm to another person.
Thus, we have broken down the list of the essential ingredients you need to check out before settling for a particular AHA lotion and experiencing its benefits.
Glycolic Acid
An effective AHA body lotion must contain Glycolic Acid. If deep cell exfoliation and collagen production for smooth and radiant skin are your goals, then you need this ingredient in your preferred AHA lotion.
Lactic Acid
Lactic Acid is generated from lactose present in milk and is a primary AHA. This ingredient is commonly identified for its gentle exfoliation, and reducing wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.
Tartaric Acid
Tartaric is an essential AHA that is manufactured from grape extracts. It significantly eases the signs of acne and skin damage.
Citric Acid
Manufactured from extracts of citrus fruit, Citric Acid ensures the balance of the skin layers and soothes rough and dry skin. Additionally, it protects the skin against UV rays.
Mandelic Acid
It is produced from extracts of almonds and is usually mixed with several AHAs to accelerate exfoliation and correct the skin tone and texture.
Are AHA Lotions Good for Acne?
AHA lotions are formulated with a variety of natural acids which guarantee faster results in reducing the appearance of acne.
While most AHA lotions contain good exfoliating properties, some of them are specifically designed for acne-prone skin. As a result, these lotions effectively target clogged pores that cause acne, remove the dead skin cells, and increase the suppleness of your skin.
The collagen fibers, Lactic Acids, Maple Acids, or similar AHA ingredients actively moisturize the skin while keeping the flared acne in check.
If you suffer from active acne, regular exfoliating scrubs may cause further damage to your skin. In such cases, AHA lotions can be an excellent alternative to treat acne, reduce blemishes and remove zits.
The unique blend of AHA lotions will also remove dull surface debris, soothe visible redness and reveal fresh, radiant skin.
How does Glycolic Acid Work in AHA Lotions?
Glycolic Acid is a type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from food substances like sugar cane. It is an organic compound and is considered the smallest AHA, allowing it to penetrate through pores and exfoliate the skin.
One of Glycolic Acid’s most unique properties is that it does not contain any water. This characteristic is what makes it very useful for removing dead skin cells and revealing new skin underneath.
In addition to its exfoliating nature, Glycolic Acid is an excellent anti-aging agent. It actively penetrates the outermost layer of the skin to accelerate cellular activities.
Moreover, Glycolic Acid hydrates and lightens up the skin tone, making it smooth and radiant.
Regular use prevents occurrences of blemishes and wrinkles on the skin.
Glycolic Acid is suitable for all skin types, controls seborrhoea levels, and manages other skin issues that may be challenging to get rid of.
It combats active acne and prevents them from recurring. When it comes to application, Glycolic Acid spreads quickly and is easily absorbed in the skin.
For its versatile health benefits, it is one of the most popular AHAs available in skincare products. The acid can be purchased nearly anywhere, but it needs to be applied consistently for long-lasting results.
Is Hyaluronic Acid an AHA?
Hyaluronic Acid is an AHA and is chemically similar to Glycolic Acid which is derived from sugarcane. This similarity has led people to conclude that it is a type of Glycolic Acid.
However, there are some key elements that make Hyaluronic Acid stand out on its own.
For starters, Hyaluronic Acid is a highly effective moisturizing ingredient that has been shown in clinical studies to perform 1.5 times better compared to many other regular moisturizers.
Thus, the skin appears plumper with improved elasticity. Moreover, it does not contain any parabens, artificial fragrances, or dyes.
It has a molecular structure so small that it can penetrate via capillaries in the dermis for more effective delivery of the active ingredients.
Overall, the unique formula leaves your skin softer, smoother, and healthier-looking removing dead skin cells.
Final Words
AHA body lotions are great alternatives to regular moisturizing products as they can be used both as treatments and moisturizers.
Another noteworthy feature of AHA lotions is the convenience of usage. You can choose an AHA body lotion based on your skincare regime and settle for a daily or a weekly lotion.
Regardless of the product you choose from our recommended list of AHA body lotions, follow the instructions in the package to achieve your desired result within a short time.