Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) / Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)

AHAs act on both the epidermal and the dermal levels. When applied to the skin, AHAs stimulate the exfoliation of epidermal cells in the stratum corneum (s.c.) by interfering with the ionic bonding between these cells. This results in the sloughing off dull, rough skin and promotes cellular renewal. Initially used for treatment of hyperkeratosis and other skin conditions affecting s.c. turnover, AHAs were found to promote softer, smoother skin, faded wrinkles, lightened age spots, and decreased blemishes. Further studies have shown AHAs to improve the s.c. barrier function, increase epidermal proliferation and thickness, and restore hydration and plumpness through an increase in hyaluronic acid.