AHA Acids for Skin: Benefits, Types, and How to Use Them Correctly

Does your skin look dull or rough despite taking care of it and regularly using skincare products? Sometimes, the reason may be the buildup of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, which affects its smoothness and radiance and makes the skin tone appear less even.

This is where Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) come in. They are common ingredients in skincare products such as serums, creams, and toners, and they help exfoliate the surface of the skin and remove dead skin cells.

But are AHA acids suitable for all skin types? What is the difference between AHA and BHA? And how do you choose the right product, especially if you are using exfoliating acids for the first time?

In this guide, we will explore AHA acids, their benefits and types, how to choose the right product and concentration, and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine. We will also take a closer look at Melano AHA 5% Serum and how to use it.

What Are AHA Acids?

AHA, or Alpha Hydroxy Acids, are a group of acids used in many skincare products to help exfoliate the surface of the skin and remove dead skin cells.

Some of the most well-known types include Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, and Citric Acid.

These acids differ in their properties and how they are used. AHA concentrations also vary from one product to another, so the term AHA does not mean that all products have the same effect or are suitable for every skin type.

AHA in Skincare Products vs. Chemical Peels

You may hear about AHA in the context of chemical peels, but it is important to distinguish between the two uses.

At-home AHA products, such as serums, creams, and toners, contain formulas and concentrations designed for use as part of a skincare routine. They help provide surface-level exfoliation and improve the appearance of the skin.

On the other hand, professional chemical peel treatments are procedures that use chemical solutions with different concentrations and formulations. Their selection and application depend on the skin's condition and the desired procedure.

Therefore, using Melano AHA 5% Serum as part of your skincare routine does not mean that you are undergoing a professional chemical peel.

How Do AHA Acids Work on the Skin?

AHA acids help remove dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin, which helps improve the appearance and texture of the skin's surface.

With proper use, the skin may become smoother and more radiant, and the appearance of uneven skin tone may improve.

However, the effect of the product depends on several factors, including the type of acid, its concentration, the product formulation, and how it is used.

Therefore, a higher concentration does not always mean a better option, especially for beginners or people with sensitive skin.

What Are the Benefits of AHA Acids for Skin?

Removing Dead Skin Cells

AHA acids help exfoliate the surface of the skin and remove the buildup of dead skin cells, making the skin appear more radiant.

Improving Skin Texture

Regular and appropriate exfoliation can help smooth the skin and improve the texture of rough areas.

Enhancing Skin Radiance

When dead skin cells accumulate, the skin may appear dull. Removing them helps improve the appearance of the skin's surface and gives it a more radiant look.

Improving the Appearance of Uneven Skin Tone

AHA can help improve the appearance of areas with uneven skin tone when used consistently.

Improving the Appearance of Dark Spots

AHA can be incorporated into a skincare routine targeting the appearance of pigmentation and dark spots by helping remove accumulated surface skin cells.

Improving the Appearance of Fine Lines

Improving the texture and renewal of the skin's surface may help make fine lines appear less noticeable.

Does AHA Help Brighten the Skin and Reduce Pigmentation?

It is important to distinguish between improving the appearance of pigmentation and uneven skin tone and changing the skin's natural color.

AHA acids do not change the skin's natural color. Instead, they help exfoliate the surface of the skin and remove dead skin cells, which may improve the appearance of dark spots and make the skin look brighter and more even.

Therefore, AHA products can be incorporated into a routine targeting:

• Dark spots.

• Acne marks.

• Uneven skin tone.

• Dullness.

• Uneven skin texture.

However, pigmentation results vary depending on its cause and depth, and excessive exfoliation is not recommended in an attempt to achieve faster results.

What Are the Most Common Types of AHA Acids?

Although they belong to the same group, each acid has different properties.

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic Acid is one of the most well-known AHA acids. It helps exfoliate the surface of the skin and improve its texture and radiance.

Lactic Acid

Lactic Acid is used in exfoliating formulas designed to improve skin texture while providing gentler care. It is also associated with properties that help moisturize the skin.

Mandelic Acid

Mandelic Acid is used in some gentle exfoliating formulas and has a larger molecular size compared with Glycolic Acid.

Citric Acid

Citric Acid is included in some skincare formulations and can help improve the appearance of skin tone and renew the appearance of its surface.

Some products may also contain a combination of more than one type of AHA acid instead of relying on a single acid.

How Do You Choose the Right AHA Product for Your Skin?

Choosing an AHA product does not depend on concentration alone. Several factors should be considered before incorporating it into your routine.

Choose the Right Concentration

If you are new to exfoliating acids, it is better to start with a gentle formula rather than choosing a high concentration from the beginning.

Pay Attention to the Types of Acids

Some products rely on a single acid, while other formulas contain a combination of different AHA acids.

Choose the Product According to Your Skin's Needs

If your goal is to improve dullness, texture, and pigmentation, AHA may be suitable for your routine.

If your main concern is blackheads and clogged pores, BHA may be more suitable for some of these needs.

Consider Your Skin's Sensitivity

If your skin is sensitive or you are new to exfoliation, choose a gentle formula and introduce it gradually according to the product's instructions.

Look for Hydrating Supporting Ingredients

The presence of moisturizing ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid can support your skincare routine while using an exfoliating product.

What Does 5% AHA Mean?

5% AHA refers to the concentration of Alpha Hydroxy Acids in the product. This concentration is used in some gentle exfoliating formulas intended for at-home use.

However, a product should not be evaluated based on the percentage alone, because the type of acids, the product formulation, and how it is used are all important factors.

This is where Melano AHA 5% Serum from Melano Pharma comes in. It is formulated with beginners and sensitive skin in mind.

Melano AHA 5% Serum from Melano Pharma

If you want to introduce exfoliating acids into your skincare routine, Melano AHA 5% Serum from Melano Pharma is specifically formulated for beginners and sensitive skin.

The serum contains a combination of 5% fruit-derived AHA acids to help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.

Its formula also contains Hyaluronic Acid to support skin hydration, helping give the skin a smoother and more radiant appearance.

Ingredients in Melano AHA 5% Serum

5% Alpha Hydroxy Acids

A combination of exfoliating acids that helps remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.

Lactic Acid

Helps gently exfoliate the skin while supporting hydration and improving skin texture.

Glycolic Acid

Helps smooth the skin's texture and gradually enhance the renewal of the skin's surface appearance.

Citric Acid

Helps improve the appearance and evenness of skin tone.

Hyaluronic Acid

Helps hydrate the skin and maintain a smoother and more comfortable texture.

What Can Melano AHA 5% Serum Help You Achieve?

• Gently exfoliate the skin.

• Improve skin texture.

• Help improve the appearance of dark spots.

• Even out the appearance of skin tone.

• Improve the appearance of acne marks.

• Enhance skin radiance.

• Support skin hydration.

Who Is Melano AHA 5% Serum Suitable For?

The serum is specifically designed for:

• Beginners using exfoliating acids.

• Sensitive skin that needs gentle exfoliation.

• Dull skin.

• Skin with uneven texture.

• Skin with the appearance of pigmentation.

• Skin with acne marks.

How to Use Melano AHA 5% Serum from Melano Pharma

Melano AHA 5% Serum is used at night as part of a skincare routine, with gradual introduction to allow the skin to adapt to exfoliation.

• Apply a thin layer of the serum to clean, dry skin at night.

• Use it two to three times a week at first.

• Gradually increase the frequency according to your skin's tolerance.

• Use a suitable moisturizer after the serum to help prevent dryness.

• Use sunscreen during the day to protect the skin while using exfoliating acids.

Discover Melano AHA 5% Serum and take the first step toward gentler exfoliation in your skincare routine.

How Do You Generally Use AHA Products?

The way AHA products are used varies depending on the type of acid, its concentration, and the product formulation. Therefore, it is important to follow the specific usage instructions for each product.

In general:

• Start using the product gradually, especially if you are new to exfoliating acids.

• Apply it to clean skin according to the product's instructions.

• Use a suitable moisturizer afterward to maintain skin hydration.

• Avoid overusing more than one exfoliating product at the same time.

• Use sunscreen in the morning to protect the skin while using exfoliating acids.

AHA Acids According to Skin Type

Dull and Rough Skin

It may benefit from exfoliation to help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture and radiance.

Skin With Pigmentation and Acne Marks

AHA can be incorporated into a routine targeting the appearance of dark spots, acne marks, and uneven skin tone.

Sensitive Skin

It requires a gentle formula and gradual use, while avoiding the layering of multiple active ingredients in the same routine.

Oily Skin

AHA can be used to improve skin texture. However, if the main concern is blackheads and clogged pores, BHA may be more suitable for some of these needs.

AHA vs. BHA: What Is the Difference?

Both are exfoliating acids, but each has different uses.

Therefore, if your main concerns are skin texture, dullness, and uneven skin tone, AHA may be a suitable option.

If your main concerns are excess oil, blackheads, and clogged pores, BHA may be more suitable.

Does AHA Help With Acne Marks?

Using AHA can help improve the appearance of acne marks and pigmentation left behind after acne disappears.

However, the type of mark matters. Dark pigmentation is different from scars or indented marks, and they cannot be treated in the same way.

If acne marks appear as dark spots, AHA can be incorporated into a skincare routine targeting them. Indented scars, however, generally require different treatment options.

Does AHA Help With Acne?

AHA may help improve the appearance and texture of the skin, but it is not the same option for every type of acne.

If the main concern is clogged pores, excess oil, and blackheads, BHA, particularly Salicylic Acid, may be more closely associated with these concerns.

Which Ingredients Can Be Used With AHA?

Your exfoliating routine does not have to be complicated.

Hyaluronic Acid

It helps hydrate the skin and maintain a smoother texture and can be used as part of a routine containing AHA.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide can be incorporated into a skincare routine, while taking care not to overuse active ingredients, especially if the skin is sensitive.

Moisturizer

Moisturizing is an important step after using exfoliating acids to help maintain skin comfort and support the skin barrier.

Which Ingredients Should Preferably Not Be Combined With AHA in the Same Routine?

Combining several active ingredients may increase the likelihood of skin irritation, especially for beginners.

Therefore, be cautious when using AHA in the same routine with:

• Retinol.

• Other exfoliating acids such as BHA.

• Strong physical exfoliants.

• Any other product that causes dryness or irritation.

These ingredients can be scheduled at different times or on different days depending on your skin's needs and tolerance.

How Do You Use AHA in Your Skincare Routine?

The method of use varies depending on the product's concentration and formulation, so you should always follow the product's instructions.

For Melano AHA 5% Serum, it is used only at night after cleansing and thoroughly drying the skin.

Steps for Use

1. Cleanse the Skin

Use a suitable cleanser and dry the skin thoroughly.

2. Apply the Serum

Apply an appropriate amount of Melano AHA 5% Serum to the skin, avoiding the eye area.

3. Moisturize

Use a suitable moisturizer after applying the serum.

4. Protect Your Skin the Next Day

Apply sunscreen the following morning.

The serum should be used only at night according to the product instructions and should not be used during the day.

Discover more Melano Pharma skincare products for brighter, more radiant-looking skin.

Why Should You Use Sunscreen With AHA?

Sun protection is an essential step when using exfoliating acids.

If your goal is to improve skin radiance or the appearance of pigmentation, continuous exposure to sunlight may affect these results and increase the appearance of dark spots.

Therefore, make sunscreen a consistent part of your morning routine.

When Should You Avoid Using AHA Acids?

It is better to postpone using AHA if your skin:

• Is experiencing irritation or noticeable redness.

• Is severely dry or damaged from over-exfoliation.

• Has recently undergone a procedure that may make it more sensitive, unless otherwise directed by a professional.

• Is already using several active ingredients that cause irritation.

If you experience severe burning, swelling, or noticeable irritation after using the product, stop using it and consult a dermatologist when needed.

When Do AHA Results Appear?

You may notice an improvement in skin smoothness and radiance with regular use, while pigmentation and acne marks may take longer to show visible improvement.

Results vary from person to person depending on the condition of the skin, the cause of the concern, consistency of use, and the other steps in the skincare routine.

Therefore, do not use AHA excessively in the belief that more exfoliation will speed up results; consistent and proper use is more important than overuse.

Common Mistakes When Using AHA

Using It Too Frequently From the Beginning

Skin that is new to exfoliation needs time to adapt. Therefore, do not increase the frequency simply to achieve faster results.

Using More Than One Exfoliant

Combining AHA, BHA, retinol, and other exfoliants at the same time may increase the likelihood of irritation.

Neglecting Moisturization

Exfoliation does not eliminate the need for hydration. Maintaining skin hydration and comfort helps keep the routine more balanced.

Forgetting Sunscreen

This is one of the most important mistakes to avoid when using exfoliating acids, especially if your goal is to improve the appearance of pigmentation.

Using AHA on Irritated Skin

If your skin is already experiencing redness, irritation, or severe dryness, it is better to postpone using the acid until the skin calms down.

Frequently Asked Questions About AHA Acids

Does AHA Lighten the Skin?

AHA helps remove dead skin cells and improve the appearance of pigmentation and uneven skin tone, which may make the skin appear brighter and more even. However, it does not change the skin's natural color.

Is AHA Suitable for Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin can use gentle AHA formulas, but they should be introduced carefully while monitoring the skin's response.

Can AHA Be Used Every Day?

It is not recommended to start with daily use. Follow the product's instructions and give your skin a chance to adapt to exfoliation.

Is AHA or BHA Better?

There is no single ingredient that is better for everyone. AHA is more closely associated with improving skin texture, dullness, and uneven skin tone, while BHA is generally more suitable for pores, excess oil, and blackheads.

Can AHA Be Used With Retinol?

They can be scheduled as part of the same overall skincare routine, but using them together may increase skin irritation. Therefore, it is better to separate them, especially when first starting.

Can AHA Be Used With Niacinamide?

Niacinamide can be used as part of a routine containing AHA, while considering the condition of the skin and avoiding excessive use of active ingredients.

Should You Use Sunscreen After AHA?

Yes. Sunscreen should be an essential part of your morning routine while using exfoliating acids.

Does AHA Remove Acne Marks?

It can help improve the appearance of acne marks and superficial pigmentation, but results vary depending on the nature and depth of the marks.

Discover more about Melano Pharma products and explore its range of skincare, haircare, and body care products.

In conclusion, AHA acids are ingredients used in skincare products to help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture, radiance, and the evenness of its appearance.

However, choosing the right product and using it correctly is more important than simply looking for a stronger concentration, especially if you are a beginner or have sensitive skin.

As for Melano AHA 5% Serum, it is a formula designed for beginners and sensitive skin. It combines 5% AHA acids with Hyaluronic Acid to help exfoliate the skin and improve its texture and the appearance of pigmentation while supporting hydration.