I’ve had a pretty solid skincare routine for a few years. I rarely have a break out that can’t be attributed to hormones close to that time of the month and my complexion is brighter overall. Now I’d like to take my skincare up a notch by incorporating ingredients that will target some of my more specific concerns like refining my pores and combatting signs of aging.
Acids For Clear Skin
I started making notes about the popular skincare acids I wanted to consider trying and figured I’d share them here. I also noted which skin types these ingredients are best suited for. Learn what these acids do so you can choose which ones you may want to try to help your skin look its best.
Azelaic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Inhibits tyrosinase (which controls the production of melanin), attacks acne breakouts, controls sebum, and is anti-inflammatory.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All skin types
Ascorbic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
A synthetic version of vitamin C that has antioxidant benefits. Helps protect against free-radical damage.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All skin types
Citric Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Improves fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliates the skin, improves skin texture, has antibacterial properties, and may act as an astringent. Research on OTC concentrations is limited.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
Acne-prone, Oily, Combination
Ferulic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Protects skin from the discoloration that comes from sun exposure or a genetic tendency for dark spots. Prevents the appearance of new blood vessels under the skin.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All except sensitive
Glycolic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Improves fine lines and wrinkles, and reduces pigmentation. Exfoliates, improves skin texture, reduces pore size, increases collagen production, and improves skin tone and brightness.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All except sensitive
Hyaluronic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Hydrates to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All skin types
Kojic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Has anti-aging qualities. Tones and brightens the skin’s appearance. Good alternative to hydroquinone for bleaching and fading dark spots.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All skin types
Lactic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Gently exfoliates, tones, and brightens skin. Improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliates skin, improves skin texture, increases collagen production, improves skin tone hydration, and may improve skin microbiome. Also helps with hyperpigmentation.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
Dry, Sensitive, Combination
Malic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Improves fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliates skin, and improves skin texture. Less effective than glycolic and lactic acids but may enhance their effects when combined.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All except sensitive
Mandelic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Treats acne, lightens dark marks and scarring, improves fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliates the skin, and improves skin texture. Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces photoaging.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
Acne-prone, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
Salicylic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Exfoliates the skin, improves fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, reduces oil production and breakouts, and unclogs pores.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
Acne-prone, Oily, Combination
Tartaric Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Improves fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliates the skin, improves skin texture, and has antioxidant properties.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
Dry, Sensitive
Tranexamic Acid
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Improves existing skin discolorations and also helps prevent the formation of new dark spots.
SUITABLE SKIN TYPES
All skin types
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