Acids for skincare goals
If you’re a fan of Korean skincare products, you’ll likely have at least one, if not several products that contain acids. Many of these acids are exfoliants and can be categorized as AHAs, BHAs or PHAs. You’ll find these in cleansers, toners, serums, and even moisturizing creams.
We’ve rounded up some of the most popular acids you’ll find in your favourite Korean skincare products so you can determine which ones will help you meet your skin goals.
Need more in-depth information on acids? Check out Acids 101 to get up-to-date!
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is the most commonly used BHA in skincare, mainly for its ability to dissolve excess sebum and deeply cleanse pores. People who have oily or acne-prone skin can use a product with salicylic acid often, as it generally doesn’t cause irritation.
Skin goals:
- Treat acne breakouts
- Treat blackheads and enlarged pores
- Balance sebum production
Glycolic Acid
This is a stronger AHA with a smaller molecular size, allowing it to get deeper into the layers of the skin. This makes it a favourite in anti-ageing products and treatments for discolouration. If glycolic acid is new to you, experts suggest a slow and gradual start to avoid irritation.
Skin goals:
- Reduce dark spots and pigmentation
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
- Fade acne scars
Mandelic and Azelaic Acids
Mandelic and azelaic acids are great choices if you’re looking for well-rounded exfoliants that do a little of everything. They help to prevent acne by cleansing pores while gently ridding the surface of dead cells. Both are commonly found in products that target hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory scars and are beginner-friendly. If you have sensitive skin and don’t tolerate stronger acids well, these are gentle options and less likely to cause irritation.
Skin goals:
- Treat acne breakouts
- Treat blackheads and enlarged pores
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduce dark spots and pigmentation
- Fade acne scars
- Illuminate complexion
Lactic Acid
Not every acid needs to get deep into your skin. Surface exfoliation is an important step to keeping skin bright and smooth. Lactic acid does an excellent job sloughing off dead cells, and has the added bonus of being moisturizing!
Skin goals:
- Brighten complexion
- Illuminate complexion
Other Acids
AHAs and BHAs aren’t the only acids worth adding to your skincare routine. The following acids aren’t known for their exfoliating properties, but can be incredibly effective at achieving your skin goals.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occuring sugar molecule that lubricates and hydrates your entire body. Its superpower is binding water to collagen, making it a staple in moisturizers. More water in your skin also means it stays flexible, plump and soft.
Skin goals:
- Treat dehydrated skin
- Get dewy skin
- Plump and firm skin
- Soften and nourish dry skin
Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic acid is the most common form of vitamin C that you’ll see in skincare products. It’s a powerhouse antioxidant that does a great job protecting skin from UV damage and hyperpigmentation. Want to boost collagen production? Studies show that ascorbic acid increases collagen synthesis and decreases breakdown, making it an anti-ageing go-to ingredient.
Check out our mixology article to find out how to use vitamin C and exfoliating acids together.
Skin goals:
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
- Plump and firm your skin
- Illuminate complexion
- Reduce dark spots and pigmentation
Fatty Acids
For the benefits of fatty acids, look for oleic and linoleic acids in your ingredient lists. These acids are naturally found in plants and work to prevent moisture loss. If you have dry, dehydrated, or irritated skin, give your barrier a boost and keep it feeling smooth and soft with these amazing acids.
Skin goals:
- Soothe sensitivity and redness
- Strengthen skin barrier
- Soften and nourish dry skin
- Treat dehydrated skin
Acids can go a long way to helping you reach your skin goals – it’s just a matter of choosing the right ones. Get your hands on some of the latest and greatest products with exfoliating acids by browsing Niasha’s AHA/BHA/PHA collection!