The word ‘Acid’ being used on the skin can feel intimidating. However, when we examine skin science in more depth, there is an entirely different story to tell! Though obviously not all acids are suitable for your skin, some from the family of AHAs and BHAs are exceptionally beneficial when used in the right concentrations.
Keep reading to find out why we have incorporated two of the most promising ingredients – ‘Salicylic acid’ and ‘Lactic acid’ in our best-selling organic formulas…
What Is Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). @PuravedaOrganics, we sustainably extract Salicylic Acid from the bark of the White Willow Tree.
Key benefits – Exfoliation, Deep pore cleansing, and Acne treatment.
Build up of dead skin cells can lead to issues such as formation of blackheads, acne, reduced ability of skin cell turnover/renewal, uneven skin tone, and loss of radiance or ‘glow’. This is when keratolytic (exfoliation of dead skin cells) agents like Lactic Acid and Salicylic Acid play a big role.
Natural Salicylic Acid (SA) from the bark of White Willow Tree is one of the best keratolytic agents (ingredients that promote softening and shedding of the outer epidermis and help bind moisture) we have discovered so far. It works for all skin types (dosha), depending upon the type of formulation and the concentration of SA in the formula.
Explaining the Key Benefits of Salicylic Acid in Organic Skin Care
Unlike Lactic Acid, SA is oil-soluble. Meaning, it can penetrate through the pore lining and break apart ‘desmosomes’ (adhesive intercellular junctions in the outer layer of the skin). This desmolytic activity in our Daily Foaming Cleanser & SBR Cleanser is very efficient for proper skin exfoliation and pore unclogging.
Using it as a toning agent, with our Daily Hydrator/Toner or Pore Perfect Hydrator/Toner, breaks apart bacteria and dead skin cells, thus revealing a fresh, blemish-free, brighter complexion. Our Organic Toners / Hydrators also visibly reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and balance skin pH.
SA is a key ingredient in our rejuvenating and healing SBR Serum (used in very mild concentrations). The ingredient in the formula is perfect for clearing microbe build-up and calming inflammation.The serum also helps decrease the thickness of psoriatic plaques.
What Is Lactic Acid?
Lactic Acid (LA), on the other hand, is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA). It is naturally derived from milk and other fermented foods such as soy products. The ingredient is often used for various professional skin care treatments.
Key benefits – Exfoliation, Brightening, Moisturization, and Anti-aging.
LA is water-soluble and is efficient in reducing several skin surface issues such as uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots. If you don’t want physical abrasives to cause micro-tears on your skin, LA is one the best alternatives you can use for exfoliation. It is also known to be more gentle for hypersensitive skin when compared to Salicylic Acid.
Pro Tip: We highly recommend a fruit-based enzyme exfoliator such as our Papaya & Honey Exfoliation Mask & Scrub, for effective deep pore exfoliation, that’s also gentler on the skin (Learn why?). Our Exfoliators & Scrubs contain natural Papaya Extract, Non-fat Milk Solids, Organic Lecithin, Honey, and other phytoactives- thus, giving you the best of all worlds in one product! For Sensitive, Blemished, Rosacea/Pitta skin, try our sensitive/blemished/rosacea SBR version instead.
Another excellent property of LA, when used on a frequent basis is its ability to reduce the signs of aging via the promotion of collagen renewal and by improving your skin’s natural moisture production.
Before you add these truly effective ingredients to your skin care regimen, here are some additional Things to know before using Hydroxy Acids…
