Why are acids popular in skincare?

On your journey to healthy skin, you'll encounter many acids, from kojic and hyaluronic, to alpha-lipoic and ferulic acids.

 

If you are a beginner, the thought of applying an "acid" to your skin might sound scary. But they are far better than they sound.  

 

Skincare acids are molecules found in many food items in your kitchen; sugar cane, apples, milk, nuts, seeds, etc.  Incorporating acids into your skincare routine can take your skin from blemished and dull to clear and glowing.

 

Acids such as glycolic acid are extracted from sugar cane, lactic acid from milk, citric acid from citrus foods, and malic acid from apples. At this point, we must say that this post is not to encourage you to start a DIY hack with milk or lemons. Instead, it is a helpful roadmap to understanding why acids should be a part of your beauty regimen.

 

What do acids do for the skin? 

Acids are chemical extracts that help improve a gamut of skincare issues such as dryness, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, acne, and eczema.

Acids, when used in safe concentrations, can enhance the appearance of your skin via exfoliation. Acids are mainly classified into alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA).

 

Common types of AHAs are glycolic acid, which lightens and lactic acid, which hydrates the skin. Salicylic acid is a common form of BHA that helps combat acne.

 

Try this gentle alpha hydroxy acid exfoliator.

What makes Phytic Acid different from the rest of the AHAs?  

 

Many skincare enthusiasts are obsessed with potent acids such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids, because of how quickly they show results. However, this fast and aggressive action can often lead to sensitivity and even dry and irritated skin.

That’s where Phytic Acid comes in. Its exfoliating powers are similar to glycolic acid, so hyperpigmentation and melasma don’t stand a chance with this ingredient, the difference is that Phytic Acid performs gently, without irritating the skin. 

 

What unique benefits Phytic Acid has compared to other acids?

Naturally found in edible seeds and nuts of certain plants such as peas, rice, almonds, and walnuts, phytic acid is a gentle and soothing acid that exfoliates dead layers of skin without irritating the skin. This is due to its slow release action compared to other acids.

 

Phytic Acid absorbs excess calcium on the surface of the skin, which otherwise would contribute to clogged pores.  

 

Additionally, phytic acid is rich in antioxidants, making it one of the few chemical peels that nourish the skin during exfoliation.

 

Antioxidants in this plant-based acid scavenge free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and aging. Another benefit of phytic acid is its chelating property. As a chelator, phytic acid neutralizes minerals such as iron and calcium that can cause damage to the skin.

 

Phytic acid is climbing up the ranks in the beauty world because it is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

 

Phytic acid is the gentle force in our overnight nourishment serum, the Nightly Calibrator.