Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) Who Do They Benefit?

IN WHICH CASES ARE AHA RECOMMENDED?

* Hyperkeratinization (increased accumulation of keratin and cell) extreme cases of hyperkeratinization such as Seborrheic dermatitis (Seborrhea skin conditions which is excess flaking, itching, scaling and redness afflicting either scalp or face due to an increase of the rate of production of skin cells which buildup on the skin.

* Hyperpigmentation (brown spots, discoloration), dry sun damaged skins

* Xerosis (so-called "dry", rough, uneven skin, calloused skin)

* Wrinkles and fine lines

* Comedonal, Whiteheads and blemished skins

* Keratosis pilaris (are numerous tiny rough spots sometimes red and itchy usually on the arms but may appear on the thighs, hands, eyebrows, cheeks or any other part of the body caused by accumulation of old skin cells, this occurs mostly in the winter months when skin is more prone to drynes and low humidity or after the summer months due to sun exposure.....(causing calloused skin)

WHAT ARE THE MAIN EFFECTS OF AHA ON THE SKIN?

* Refine the corneal layer by exfoliating accumulation of dead skin cells

* Accelerate cellular renewal

* Moisturize by stimulating the skin to produce hyaluronic acid, known for it's highly

moisturizing effect on the skin but to be effective the concentration should be 2% and up! * Reduce brown spots

* Even out and Brighten the complexion

* Make wrinkles less visible

* Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) are naturally occurring acids, derived from the sugars.. Some examples are

Glycolic Acid (Sugar Cane), Lactic Acid (Milk), Tartaric Acid (Grapes), Citric Acid (Citrus Fruits), Malic Acid (Apples), and Mandelic Acid (Bitter Almonds).

* These acids work at the very base of the stratum corneum, dissolving the cement that holds dead skin cells together to remove dead cells from the skin, removal of this external barrier enables easier, deeper penetration of other skin treatments as well clears oiliness and impurities, increases skin hydration due to the natural moisturizing properties of AHAs and rejuvenates the skin.This increases cell turnover and influences the structure of new stratum corneum being made. AHA has the potential to help bleach unwanted skin discoloration. This results in skin that is more flexible,even in color, more smooth, and more moisturized, making fine lines less visible while delaying the aging process. Finally, they not only stimulate collagen production, but help plump up collagen and elastin fibers within the skin. It is the basis of many acne therapy and skin rejuvenation!

* Excellent exfoliating product!!!! For all skin types except reactive/sensitive skins and any age (teenagers to seniors)! IF YOUR SKIN IS TOO SENSITIVE FOR AHA YOU WILL KNOW CAUSE IT WILL FEEL IRRITATED AND RED.

* An effective concentration should contain at least 7-8% alpha hydroxy acid with a pH between 2.5 and 4.0. A pH of up to 4.5 is acceptable on products with high concentrations of 20-25%. Products for use at home should never contain over 10 % alpha hydroxy acid, anything over 10-15% a doctor's or professional supervision is required. Alpha hydroxy acids do not thin the skin if used correctly!

* Remember one should always wear a sunscreen if one is using alpha hydroxy acids products and going in the sun (which is not recommended because of possible sensitivities, this also includes the cold and wind, the reason why I recommend to use AHA creams at night to prevent any possible reaction/sensitivities to any harsh environment ) In the summer one should always use suncblock if they will be outside!

* For some it is best at the beginning to use the aha cream every second night and work up gradually to every night. Or you may wish to use the product every other night throughout the treatment and alternate with another cream if your skin feels sensitive...

* While using AHA creams it is normal to have some flaking occuring this is just the dead skin cells being shed off! Also during the first few weeks some people may experience some breakouts that is normal too due to the product eliminating impurities from the pores and a sensation of warmth and light tingling may occur!!!

If you wish you can apply a moisturizer (optional) on top of the AHA over dry areas or use it alone! Also the need to exfoliate the skin once a week is not necessary when using aha products!

Linda Fournier
Professional Esthetician/Owner
Elle's Esthetic Studio
http://www.ellesestheticstudio.com

RELATED ARTICLES Clean Your Face With Ultra Botanicals Facial Cleanser Women are chasing down ultra botanicals facial cleanser in droves. Women are pretty darn savvy when it comes to their skin and cosmetics, so they immediately recognized ultra botanicals as the healthiest facial cleanser on the market, with the papaya facial cleanser being their all time favorite. Modern SkinCare from an Age Old Source Beauty from the Inside Out- The Rooibos plant Aspalathus linearus contains a host of natural antioxidants, the new buzzword for a healthy lifestyle. The antioxidant in Rooibos helps to neutralise damaging free radicals and therefore protects the body against diseases and premature ageing. Botox Toxin Not So Toxic The Botox toxin is not so toxic if you're trying to take the crinkle out of your wrinkles. The clostridium botulinum bacteria produce Botox. The Advantages of Sunless Tanning Booths While many people recall seemingly endless hours outdoors soaking up the sun's rays, sunbathing isn't as carefree an activity as it used to be. These days, there's more to worry about, such as premature aging, scarring, blemishes, and skin cancer. Importance of Your Skins pH One of the most important roles of our skin is to protect our 'insides' from the external environment, acting both as a barrier and a filter between 'outside' and 'inside'. In addition, the skin is involved in regulating our body's temperature, like when we have a fever or we're physically working hard, we tend to sweat, which is the body's way to attempt to lower the temperature. What is Lasik Eye Surgery? Individuals with imperfect vision now have an option available to them that will correct their vision while reducing the need for glasses or contacts. This procedure is called Lasik eye surgery and it corrects vision problems for patients. Skin Care Home Remedies Natural homemade recipes for your skin are simple to make and cost-effective. What you put on your skin is just as important as what you eat. Are Parabens Really Safe You've probably heard the news stories about parabens and the controversy surrounding their use in personal care products. Here's a brief, but fair, look at this complicated issue:No cosmetic can ever be truly "natural"-no matter what the manufacturer claims-but some ingredients are closer than others. Curls Are Back In for Spring 2005! Whether you have loose curls or tight coily locks you will definately be the talk of the town this spring!We can see the evidence of the popularity of curls at the recent Golden Globe Awards. There were many celebrities sporting curls at this years gala event. Best Plastic Surgeons Who can I trust to find me a best plastic surgeon?Yourself! knowledge is power only when you use it. The more information you know about your surgeon and surgery, the more likely your chances of having a successful operation. 7 Tips for Beautiful Skin For most women, part of their morning and evening routines involve a skincare regimen of applying creams, moisturizers, tonics, lotions, and the like. Why do women put themselves through this? To combat the signs of aging, and to maintain youthful looks and beautiful skin! However, how many women consider what is in the products they are using?Some women probably do not realize that what they are putting on their skin may actually be undermining what they are trying to prevent to begin with. Natural Ways to Treat Stretch Marks Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman's life. One aspect of child-bearing, however, may not be so welcomed. How to Use Avocado as Your Hair Care Product Let's role on?life must go on and the life of your natural hair is in your hand. Take care of your hair with avocado and don't let it look dull due of incorrect caring. Beautiful Eyes Beautiful skin care starts with what people notice first. Eyes are what others notice immediately; so start your skin care program eye-to-eye!Here are four major skin care issues related to eye care, work them successfully and look 20 years younger. Lip Augmentation - The Raw Facts Lip augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. Last year, approximately 264,000 people underwent lip-plumping surgery. Costume Contact Lenses - Be Noticed in the Crowd! Costume contacts have always been a favorite tool of movie costume designers. What makes a werewolf appear like a real monster and not just an actor in a costume? The eyes, of course! The eyes make the entire image seem real and very believable. Tanses Tanning Equipment Tanses tanning equipment is well known in its field. Tanses tanning equipment has developed a very good reputation. How To Give A Manicure This guide will give you the basic directions for nail care, however, it cannot provide the same direction and hands-on experience offered by a Professional School of Cosmetology.SUPPLIES: 1 - Nail scissors2 - Small tray, about the size of a soap dish3 - Gentle dishwashing detergent or other skin softening, bubbly liquid (such as some bubble bath products)4 - Warm water5 - Two to three hand towels6 - Moisturizer or Hand Lotion with Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter or similar ingredient to condition skin7 - Clear Base Coat Nail Polish8 - Colored Nail Polish9 - Top Coat Nail Polish10 - Small lamp or other radiant source of light11 - Table or desk so that, when seated, your arms can easily extend across from the relaxed position of a comfortable chair12 - Hair dryer or similar device (not required)13 - Cotton swabsSTEPS: 1 - Fill tray with warm water and sudsy liquid (the trick is to add water at just the right temperature so it will soften skin without being too hot to the touch)2 - Place one hand in tray and let it soak for several minutes3 - If you're giving someone else a manicure, you can use oil or moisturizer to massage one hand while the other one is soaking4 - Remove soaking hand and pat dry with hand towel5 - Place other hand in tray to soak for several minutes6 - While the second hand is soaking, you should carefully begin trimming cuticles that form around the edges of the nail itself (NOTE: Pay close attention to what you're doing, so you don't cut too close and end up causing skin to bleed. What are Hair Extensions? Hair extensions, as their name suggests, are sections of hair added to your own natural hair, giving it added volume and length, even changing its style. Extensions can be real or synthetic. Teeth Whitening: Frequently Asked Questions OverviewTeeth whitening is one of the easiest ways to improve your appearance. Whiter teeth can boost your self-esteem and confidence.