The word ""acid"" sounds scary doesn't it? But the truth is face acids are one of the key ingredients you must have if you want glowing skin. They're the miracle tools designed to fight dark spots, acne, wrinkles, scarring, uneven skin tone and more. Before you jump into the world of facial acids make sure you read this to ensure you're using the right ones.

What are face acids?

Face acids are skin-care ingredients that are used for skin exfoliation. There are two main types of acids that can be used in your skin care routine: alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).

AHAs are water-soluble and work primarily on the skin's surface. They can either be synthetic or naturally occurring - typically derived from sugar cane, sour milk, tomato juice and apples. They are best for treating fine lines, texture, dullness, and can even stimulate a little collagen production. Alpha hydroxy acids are the most common acids that are used for the skin.

BHAs penetrate deeper into your pores so they're great for unclogging pores and preventing acne. They're great for oily skin because when you exfoliate your skin the dead skin cells and pore-clogging oils are removed.

What are the best AHAs?

1. Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid which is derived from sugar is one of the most common acids used in skincare. Because it has the smallest molecule of all the acids, it has the ability to penetrate the deepest, making it one of the most effective acids available. It regenerates collagen, thickens the skin, and evens out the skin tone.

But be careful with the percentage you use. Because it gets into the deep layers of your skin it also has a higher chance of producing irritation.

2. Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid is derived from bitter almonds. It's great for sensitive skin and helps with acne, hyperpigmentation, and the effects of aging. Because it is gentler compared to other acids it penetrates the skin at a slower rate. This makes it less irritating on the skin. Mandelic acid also improves skin appearance because it promotes collagen production.

Results from using mandelic acid vary from person to person, but some people may notice a difference in their complexion and appearance even after a couple of weeks.

We recommend Pure Fiji's Glycolic Overnight Renewal Peel with Mandelic + Niacinamide. Renew and resurface your skin overnight with this powerful blend of glycolic and mandelic acid enhanced with niacinamide and extracts of fresh garden sprouts. Fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, acne scars and enlarged pores will be dramatically diminished. Awake to rejuvenated, luminous skin.

What are the best BHAs?

1. Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is definitely one of the most popular ingredients for minimizing breakouts because it penetrates and dissolves the oil that clogs pores while also exfoliating away dead skin cells. It also has anti-inflammatory which helps irritated, inflamed skin conditions.

2. Hyaluronic Acid

What's interesting about hyaluronic acid is that it doesn't actually exfoliate even if it's technically an acid. It's really a humectant best known for its moisturizing properties. This sugar molecule is believed to absorb up to 1,000 times its own weight in water and helps trap moisture against the skin's surface. The result: plumper skin and a softening of the appearance of wrinkles.

We recommend Pure Fiji's Kakadu Super Vitamin C Brightening Serum with Hyaluronate and Bakuchiol. This powerful blend of vitamin c, Kakadu plum, Bakuchiol and hyaluronate acid will dramatically improve radiance and luminosity while delivering an instant moisture surge and visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation - rapid results for glowing skin.

How to Use Acid

Always do a skin test. Simply apply the product on your inner arm and wait 24 to 48 hours to see if you have a reaction. If nothing happens, great! You can start using the acid on your face.

Start slow and work your way up two to three times a week.

But no matter what area you're treating or what kind of acid you're using, don't forget to apply a generous coat of SPF, especially if you're using it in the daytime. Even if acids are only part of your nighttime routine, your skin is still extra-susceptible the next morning ó so slather up.

Summary

Whether you're trying to get rid of acne or improve skin texture and dark spots on your skin, a consistent, good skin care routine is the key to radiant skin. Face acids are your friends. When used correctly, they can have a lasting effect on the texture and tone of your skin.

Source: Sheerluxe