Recently, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or a combination of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs, have appeared as ingredients in skin care products at the drug store as well as expensive department stores. While both AHAs and BHAs act as exfoliants, studies show that BHAs are effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving overall skin texture, without the occasional irritation associated with the use of AHAs.

AHA is found in; glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid, glycolic acid + ammonium glycolate,alpha-hydroxyethanoic acid + ammonium alpha-hydroxyethanoate,alpha-hydroxyoctanoic acid, alpha-hydroxycaprylic acid, hydroxycaprylic acid,(what is with these scientific names the FDA uses!) mixed fruit acid, tri-alpha hydroxy fruit acids, triple fruit acid, sugar cane extract, alpha hydroxy and botanical complex L-alpha hydroxy acid. The most commonly used and most effective AHAs are glycolic and lactic acids.

Glycolic and lactic acid easily penetrate the skins surface, and they have the most documented scientific research on their functionality and benefit for skin. Glycolic and Lactic acids dissolve the skins cement that binds the dead skin cells to the surface of your skin. The AHA exfoliation allows the newer cells underneath to come to the surface. Eliminating the dead cells can unplug pores, allows normal oil flow through and out of the pores, allows skin moisture by enhancing moisture uptake and binds water to the skin.

AHAs and BHAs use a chemical process to penetrate the skin, versus scrubs that scrape the exposed area of skin. AHAs and BHAs only exfoliate, or remove the dead/damaged skin cells they leave the healthy skin cells alone. Most skin care companies utilize up to 10% AHA .It is highly recommended to use sunscreen as AHA causes skin sensitivity and you may burn easier. Wear a hat with a brim of at least 4 inches, long sleeve shirt, and sunscreen of SPF 15.

Remember: Sun Protection used everyday is the Best Wrinkle Preventer.