Hey there, viewers! Acid for the skin? Have we lost our minds? No,
not really. It sounds scary to have acid in your skincare routine. But the truth
is they are total game changers in terms of giving you radiant, even-toned, glowing skin.
In today’s video, we’ll be walking you through our comprehensive guide to using
acid in your skincare routine. What is ellagic (elle-ah-jick) acid? Should you use tranexamic
acid with retinol? What about hyaluronic acid? We’ll be talking about all of these AND more…
1. Ellagic acid
This particular acid will help brighten your skin. Ellagic acid is a compound that
can be prepared from nuts or fruits such as pomegranates and berries.
In one study, it was seen that a product with a combination of 0.5% ellagic acid and 0.1%
salicylic acid was as effective at brightening the skin as products with hydroquinone.
Although hydroquinone is considered the best product for getting rid of pigmentation,
it may cause side effects such as irritation and dryness. As such,
ellagic acid can be a great alternative and can be equally effective in reducing pigmentation.
Do you struggle with skin issues like dull complexion? Have you tried skin
brightening products? Which one helped bring the glow to your skin? Share your experiences with the
Bestie community in the comments below... 2. Hyaluronic acid
One of the products you consistently see in moisturizers and anti-aging creams is
hyaluronic acid. This is because hyaluronic acid has properties that can help smooth your skin.
This is because hyaluronic acid is naturally present in your skin and is key in gathering
water from the surroundings. In fact, research has shown that hyaluronic acid can retain as
much as 1,000 times its weight in water. When you apply hyaluronic acid, it works
on the outer layer of your skin cells. As a result, your skin will get a good glow,
and also, any lines on it will be softened. Looking for answers on all the latest health and
wellness news? Hit that “subscribe” button, and join our millions of followers. Stay up to date
on all our great Bestie content… 3. Mandelic acid
Mandelic acid is extracted from bitter almonds. This particular acid has exfoliation properties,
and is used in skin care products to help give your skin a healthy glow.
In one study, it was seen that mandelic acid is effective even for sensitive
skin and causes a lot less irritation compared with other acids. As a result,
it’s often used as a peel, particularly for skin that is more susceptible to rebound pigmentation.
Additionally, mandelic acid can reduce the production of sebum and ensure you do not have
oily skin. It can also be used as an anti-aging product. In a study among middle-aged adults,
it was seen that skin firmness increased by a quarter when mandelic acid is applied two
times in a day for four weeks. 4. Azelaic acid
If you want to get rid of black spots, the best way to do that is by using products that
have azelaic acid. Azelaic acid is extracted from yeast. In one study, it was seen that
azelaic acid can also treat melasma, which is a condition that causes dark patches on the skin
among pregnant women due to exposure to the sun. More importantly, azelaic acid can also reduce
the activity of tyrosinase, which is an enzyme responsible for producing melanin.
When melanin production is inhibited, your skin discoloration disappears.
Azelaic acid is also helpful in treating a condition called rosacea. This is because
azelaic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can bring down redness and swelling on your skin.
5. Glycolic acid Glycolic acid is
extracted from sugarcane, and is present in many skincare products such as moisturizers,
cleansers, and serums, among others. This acid can act as a good exfoliator. It can increase the
cell turnover after infiltrating the outer skin. People suffering from acne and skin aging can use
glycolic acid, as it deals with both issues. If you have hyperpigmentation, then glycolic acid
can also help with the issue. Glycolic acid treats multiple issues with just one product.
6. Lactic acid Lactic acid is extracted from fermented
milk. In a study, it was seen that lactic acid can work as a moisturizer, as well as an exfoliant.
One of the advantages of using lactic acid is the dual effect is gentle on your skin.
Lactic acid’s best use is as a body lotion. It can get rid of dry skin and flaky feet. If you
have keratosis pilaris, which appears as bumps on your skin, typically on the backside of your arm,
lactic acid can help treat the condition. Before we move ahead, here’s another video you
might like. Watch and learn about secret tips for flawless skin they never tell you about…
7. Salicylic acid Salicylic acid is
effective in treating acne. This is because it exfoliates your skin’s outer layer. Considering
that salicylic acid is lipid-soluble, it can get deeper into your skin’s pores.
This way, you’ll be able to remove any debris and buildup in your pores. As a result,
the chances of breakouts will be a lot less. So if you want to avoid breakouts,
it would be best to use products that have salicylic acid in them at least once every day.
In higher concentrations, salicylic acid can also be used as a peeler while treating scars related
to acne, as well as age spots and damage caused by exposure to the sun. Salicylic acid can also
be used to remove warts. 8. Ascorbic acid
One of the most common ingredients present in skincare products is ascorbic acid or vitamin C.
This is because vitamin C is very effective on skin. Vitamin C is primarily an antioxidant,
which means it can fight off pollutants that usually affect your skin.
Vitamin C can also make sure there is a reduction in pigment production in your body. This way,
you can decrease the chances of dark spots or discoloration on your skin. Vitamin C can
also stimulate your collagen production, which decreases your chances of losing elasticity.
It’s necessary to make sure you use products that formulate ascorbic acid
properly. This is because it becomes unstable when you expose it to light.
9. Ferulic acid When you see products with ferulic acid,
it also comes with vitamin C. This is because ferulic acid can help stabilize vitamin C.
Free radicals are not just found in your body. They’re also present in the atmosphere.
When vitamin C is exposed to UV light, or comes in contact with pollutants, it will immediately
oxidize. So, it would not be of much use without the stabilizing effect of ferulic acid.
However, ferulic acid is not just used as support. It’s also responsible for collagen
production and ensures your skin does not lose its elasticity. According to a study,
it’s helpful in removing dark spots, as it reduces pigment production in your body.
10. Kojic acid Kojic acid is extracted
from fungus. It’s another acid that can help slow the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase.
As such, kojic acid is used in products that primarily deal with brightening your skin.
It’s also found in products used to cleanse your skin. Although kojic acid can be
irritating on some skin types, it’s still a very effective ingredient used in skincare products.
11. Phytic acid Phytic acid has antioxidant
properties which can help with fighting pollutants and UV rays affecting your skin. This particular
acid comes from legumes and seeds. Phytic acid is especially helpful in making sure that your
skin becomes smooth again. 12. Tranexamic Acid
Tranexamic acid is a brightening powerhouse that can fight discoloration.
It’s perfect for people dealing with acne scarring, melasma, and hyperpigmentation.
Tranexamic acid comes from the amino acid lysine. It fades dark spots, brightens skin, and reduces
the appearance of acne scars. Generally, it’s safe to use for all types of skin. If you have
super sensitive skin, or are struggling with problems like eczema, do a patch test first.
Ideally, tranexamic acid products are used twice a day. But if you have sensitive skin, start by
applying once a day, especially at night. It works well with vitamin C, retinol, and hyaluronic acid.
Remember not to use this acid with multiple skin acids. This way, you can avoid dryness.
Though tranexamic acid is safe for most skin types, it’s always important to consult your
dermatologist before using it. Especially, if you’re struggling with skin diseases.
Side effects of this acid include flaky skin, dryness, and irritation.
Skin acids can definitely add glow to your face. But they aren’t the only choice you have.
You can also use facial oils. Yes, you heard that right! Let’s keep
the conversation going with a couple more skin-related videos, shall we?
Check out 13 Foods To Avoid If You Want Younger Looking Skin. Or how about 13 Incredible Oils That
Fight Wrinkles And Give You Younger Looking Skin. Go ahead, click one. Or better yet, watch both,
and learn more about how to make your skin healthier. Are you planning on including
any of these acids in your daily skincare routine? Let us know in the comments below!