Beauty trends have always been dynamic to shake things up a bit. But, over the years, acids have gained a constant place in the skincare world and it is here to stay for a long long time. Always referred to as the bad guys, some acids have worked its way up to show how beneficial they are to our skin. Yes, there are good acids too, which when taken appropriately works wonders for our skin.

A.  Hyaluronic acid

The gospel of every skincare routine is hydration. No matter how much water you take, it is never enough. So, it seems wise to get it from any and every source you can. Here, comes hyaluronic acid to the rescue!

• Water wealthy

Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant that absorbs water from the atmosphere and hold it in place on our skin, one gram of hyaluronic acid has the ability to hold up to six liters of water. It also adjusts its water absorption rate based on the humidity, working smartly to take in consideration the season.

• Ageing decelerator

 

So, good news is that our body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, but the bad news is that the production takes a nosedive as we age. But, worry not because Hyaluronic Acid assists in clearing all signs of ageing from our skin. So, bye bye wrinkles and lines. Apart from that, this water-magnet acid, supports skin healing, protects skin from harsh UVB rays and prevents skin from drying out.

B.  Salicylic acid

If you have pimple popping out now and then in your faces, we feel you deeply. But, sulking is no solution and looking for salicylic acid rich products might save you from lathering up layers of makeup.

• Hello, exfoliant

 

You cannot see them, but those dead cells are taking away your glow. Salicylic acid helps to kick out those dead, flaky cells and remove all the grime from your skin surface. It also unclogs pores and balances skin’s sebum level.

• Acne enemy

 

You are not the only one who holds grudges against pimples, blackheads, white heads and what not. Salicylic acid too hates them and fights acne by reducing inflammation and clearing out gunky pores. It also prevents future breakouts, thus saving you from cancelling last minute date plans.

• Scar remover

 

Acne goes away, leaving with it the bitter memories of its scars. Thankfully, salicylic acid reduces skin discoloration and removes dark spots, pimple marks and blemishes.

C.  Ascorbic acid

So, ascorbic acid is basically vitamin C and vitamin C has great super powers for our skin. It is like the Kadha for our skin, a cure for everything.

• Collagen crusader

   

Ever heard of a magic ingredient that can transform you? Well, if you haven’t then let’s introduce you to collagen. Collagen strengthens the skin and restores its radiant glow. But age and sun damage cause our body to reduce collagen production. Vitamin C helps to boost the production of collagen, thus keeping our skin healthy and luminous.

• Sun protector

 

OK, summer is fun and all, but what about the sun’s harsh UV rays.  Vitamin C protects the skin from sun damage and treats sunburn. However, it should not be considered as an alternative to sunscreen. Vitamin C guards your deeper skin levels, so you have to use a sunscreen with adequate SPF to guard your upper skin layers.

• Glow enhancer

 

It is really irritating to hide those dark circles with layers of makeup or to chuck away all the sleeveless dresses. Vitamin C helps to brighten dark spots and removes skin discoloration. It also facilitates melanin production for an even skin tone, thus restoring skin’s natural glow. Some vitamin rich serums also energizes fatigued skin to retain skin's freshness.

D.  Other acids

 

Glycolic Acid - Helps to reverse symptoms of aging skin by taking care of wrinkles, spots and scars.

Citric Acid -  Used for gentle exfoliation of skin.

Malic Acid - Boosts collagen, tackles hyper pigmentation and promotes skin cell regeneration.

Lactic Acid - Exfoliates and moisturizes skin to reveal brighter complexion

Oleic Acid - Best for dry skin, contains fatty acids that moisturizes skin.

Ferulic Acid - It is an antioxidant that fights free radicals

So, before decking up your shelves with skincare products, look out for this good acids as ingredients and your skin will be forever happy!

 Author
Jigyasha Jain