December 20, 2009

How Alpha Hydroxy Skin Care Can Take Years off Of Your Appearance

One effective way to treat aging skin is to use an alpha hydroxy skin care product. These products are sold at department stores, but chemical free versions of them can be found online and at natural food stores. Better yet, if these products contain organic ingredients you will avoid any allergic reactions caused by the non organic ingredients found in conventional formulas.

AHAs that are used in commercial skin care products originate from natural sources such as sugar cane, milk, apples, oranges and even wine. The acids found in these foods like glycolic, lactic, citric, malic and tartaric acid can penetrate the skin and encourage the production of collagen and mucopolysaccharides. This, in turn, causes the desired effects without severely damaging the skin.

Even though these alpha hydroxy skin care formulas are all natural, you will still need to use them with caution. Most of the types of formulas found on the market today contain less than 10% of the alpha hydroxy acids and they should not irritate your skin. Doctors will prescribe formulas containing greater than 10% alpha hydroxys because their patient's skin requires that dosage level.

Whenever acids are used on the skin, there is always a chance that side effects may occur. Some side effects that are associated with a chemical peel include reddening and flaking of the skin, soreness and possible oozing. These effects are relatively normal and will happen as the skin gets accustomed to the treatment and begins to shed its outer layers. Once these layers are removed, a softer, younger looking skin will be revealed.

Choosing an alpha hydroxy skin care product that's effective can be a tough decision. It's important to keep in mind the following tips before purchasing one of these products. First of all, the exfoliation product should contain the proper alpha hydroxy ingredient for your skin such as glycolic, malic, citric, or tartaric acid. Second, have your doctor prescribe the right concentration of alpha hydroxy acid, one that is most tolerable for your skin. Lastly, have your doctor select a formula that is free of any parabens or any other chemical that may cause further irritation to your skin.

Glycolic acid is the main alpha hydroxy used in anti aging skincare formulas. This natural acid is derived from sugar cane and is an excellent exfoliant. Chemical peels containing glycolic acid will help eliminate the outer layer of dead skin cells. It will bring about a smoother layer of skin and yield a more youthful appearance. Since this type of treatment is very acidic, the cosmetic formula will also contain moisturizers and soothing agents to help neutralize the effects of glycolic acid.

It is very important to remember to use sunscreen while using any product that contains alpha hydroxyl acid. Because this acid exfoliates and removes the top layer of skin, the consumer is more susceptible to sun damage and dangerous UV rays. As always, it's a good idea to consult a doctor or dermatologist before starting any new skin care regimen.

Visit pureskincaresolutions to find the finest alpha hydroxy formulaalpha hydroxy formula on the market today. These products are chemical free, and will not cause any allergic reactions. The site also offers a free newsletter which is packed with information to help you get your skin back into shape.

Filed under Beauty Skin Care by Tanya Simmons

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