Ingredients Watch: Poly Hydroxy Acids
Exfoliating acids are regularly used in skincare, helping to transform many skin concerns. From Glycolic Acid and its ability to treat scarring, skin discolouration and lessen signs of ageing. To Salicylic Acid that helps to shed dead skin cells and exfoliate inside pores to fight blemishes, reduce breakouts, blackheads and whiteheads.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) may have many skin benefits but they can also be negative side effects including peeling, inflammation and redness.Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHAs) offer a gentler approach to chemical exfoliation.What are Poly Hydroxy Acids?
Poly Hydroxy Acids, similar to their Alpha and Beta counterparts, are chemical exfoliators. The most common PHAs are lactobionic acid and gluconolactone.PHAs are gentler on skin, causing less irritation thanks to their larger molecular structure, which penetrates skin at a slower rate and doesn't disturb the deeper and more delicate layers of skin. This makes PHAs suitable for the majority of skin types, including sensitive skin.How do PHAs work?
Like any chemical exfoliator, PHAs remove dead skin cells and enhance cell turnover for a softer, smoother and more even skin tone. Some forms of PHAs also deliver powerful antioxidant properties, helping to protect skin against damage caused by free radicals and other environmental aggressors.PHAs also act as a humectant, promoting healthy hydration and strengthening skin's natural barrier function.Top 5 benefits of PHAs:- Strengthen skin's protective barrier
- Reduce pigmentation
- Encourage cell turnover
- Boost hydration
- Deliver antioxidant action
Products containing PHAs
PHAs were originally patented by NeoStrata and their sister company Exuviance, two brands we regularly recommend at Face the Future! But now the patent has been lifted, we are starting to see PHAs pop up in other skincare brands. Here are just a few of our favourite PHA productsExuviance SkinRise Bionic Tonic Pads
These serum-soaked pads are an incredible way to gently exfoliate, with a triple blend of Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) helping to reveal a radiant complexion with enhanced clarity, smoothness and firmness. The alcohol-free formula also contains eucalyptus and cucumber to refine and stimulate, while green tea extract helps to protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals and harmful environmental factors.Benefits of Exuviance SkinRise Bionic Tonic:- Formulated with three PHAs: Gluconolactone, Glucoheptonolactone and Lactobionic Acid
- Multi-Antioxidant protection from Pro-Vitamins A, C and E
- Infused with Cucumber and Eucalyptus
- Green tea extract tones and protects stressed skin from free radicals
This resurfacing body lotion is ideal for smoothing skin on the arms and legs with a blend of 5% Glycolic Acid and 5% Gluconolactone/Lactobionic Acid to gently exfoliate, removing dead skin cells and softening the appearance of lines, wrinkles and irregular skin texture. The nourishing combination of Vitamin E and Shea Butter locks in moisture for long lasting hydration throughout the day.Benefits of Exuviance Retexturing Treatment:- Formulated with 5% Glycolic Acid & 5% Gluconolactone/Lactobionic Acid
- Resurfacing body lotion
- Smoothes and soften irregular skin texture
- Suitable for all skin types, especially those with keratosis pilaris
This luxurious body polish buffs and smoothes skin for a softer texture. The resurfacing blend of PHAs Gluconolactone and Lactobionic Acid, gently remove dead skin cells and smooth skin texture without the use of harsh, abrasive microbeads. Vitamin E and Shea Butter provide deeply moisture to provide long lasting hydration.Benefits of Exuviance Bionic Body Polishing Masque:- Formulated with Gluconolactone & Lactobionic Acid
- Innovative body scrub & mask
- Smoothes, softens & hydrates
- Suitable for all skin types
Formulated with a blend of PHAs, AHAs and BHAs, these next generation resurfacing pads provide the results of a peel in a safe method that can be used daily. With regular use, skin texture is smoothed, skin tone is evened, enlarged pores are refined and the appearance of lines and wrinkles is minimised. The addition of antioxidants helps to protect against environmental damage.Benefits of Zelens PHA+Bio-Peel Resurfacing Pads:- Formulated with PHAs, AHAs & BHAs
- Gently exfoliates without causing irritation or dryness
- Restores a smooth, radiant & youthful complexion.
- Suitable for all skin types
NeoStrata Facial Cleanser is soap and fragrance free and formulated to gently exfoliate and cleanse without drying or stripping the skin. The cleanser is suitable for all skin types and is especially beneficial when used alongside therapeutic skin regimes. This product is ideal for those who have sensitive or post-procedure skin as it's hypoallergenic and formulated with 4% Gluconolactone to gently exfoliate, deliver hydration and antioxidant benefits.Benefits of NeoStrata Facial Cleanser:- Formulated with PHA Gluconolactone
- Removes impurities & makeup residue without drying the skin
- Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive & acne-prone
- Can also be used post-procedure
This innovative powder-to-foam cleanser is enriched with the patented Oxy-R (Oxyresveratrol), a powerful skin brightener that inhibits the production of melanin to improve the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. The gentle formula effectively removes all traces of make up, dirt and impurities.A blend of PHAs and bamboo extract slough away dead skin cells and breakdown stubborn melanin deposits. The innovative powder-to-foam formulation allows you to customise your level of exfoliation: one teaspoon for light, daily exfoliation or two teaspoons for a deeper weekly exfoliation treatment.Benefits of Medik8 Brightening Powder Cleanse- Formulated with PHAs & Bamboo extract
- Brightening & exfoliating daily cleanser
- Powder-to-foam formulation makes this product great for travelling “ no liquid
- Suitable for all skin types
