What exactly are AHAs and glycolic acid?
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s) are really a family of acids. Glycolic is the most widely used because of its small molecular structure, but Lactic – which is most beneficial for dry/aging skin, and Salicylic – which is most beneficial for oily/acne prone skin, are very powerful as well, and should be used accordingly. AHA’s are one of the safest methods of skin renewal. Their effectiveness depends on the type and concentration of the AHA, its pH (acidity), and other ingredients in the product. Many AHA-containing cosmetic products have very little skin renewal effects because the AHA concentrations are too low and the pH is too high. Platinum Skin Care’s Cosmeceutical products start at the range of 5% for sensitive skin types and move up to a leave-on product percentage of 30% acid. Our peels begin at the 15% range and move up to a pure 70% solution.
