Skin acids are little ingredient powerhouses that fight off everything from acne, oily skin, dark marks, fine lines, dullness, dryness, and more. But with so many different acids out there, how do you figure out which one to use?
We’ve put together a guide for every age with their specific benefits and how to use them to benefit your skin concerns, below.
In your 20’s
Oily skin and adult acne are very real issues for many of us at this age – and so are the dark spots that often go with acne-prone skin.
Salicylic acid: Gently works to reduce oiliness and clear out the dead skin cells that clog pores – the two major causes of acne. It’s also a pigmentation fighter and helps to reduce inflammation and redness. Try Nimue Blemish Control or Environ’s Sebu Tone Clarifyer.
In your 30’s
This is the period in your life that you start to see the first real signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. Things like hyperpigmentation and sunspots also might appear in your 30s.
Retinoic acid: Derived from vitamin A, and well known as a hugely effective and powerful anti-aging dynamo. Accelerates skin cell turnover and collagen production, cleans pores, evens out skin tone and fades pigmentation. Best used at night. Try Dr Grandel’s Retinol Ampoules, Skin Affairs Anti-Ageing Serum or Environ’s Concentrated Retinol Serum 1.
Glycolic acid: One of the best acids out there and a brilliant exfoliator, it will shrink pores, lighten dark spots, even out scars, lessen wrinkles, and keep your skin smooth, fresh and bright. Wash with Dr Grandel’s 2 in 1 Cleansing Foam every morning and evening and moisturise with Environ’s Alpha Hydroxy Night cream 2-3 times a week in the evening.
In your 40’s
This is when environmental pollutants start to take a toll on your skin, making antioxidants very important. Some of you may also develop more sensitivity to skincare products.
Ascorbic acid: The synthetic version of vitamin C that has antioxidant benefits to combat ageing, as well as the ability to fade dark spots, brighten skin and increase collagen production. Best to use in the morning (and use retinol at night). Try Nimue’s Multi-Rejuvenating Serum.
Lactic acid: Gentle and effective, this is great for those with sensitive skin. It exfoliates and softens lines and wrinkles in a much less irritating way than other acids. Try Environ Bio-Botanical Revival Masque which has been nicknamed the “Facelift in a Jar” or Dr Grandel AHA Peeling Effect, two incredibly effective at-home peels.
In your 50’s
Skin cell turnover significantly declines and age starts catching up with you in your 50s. As a result you may experience significant dryness, loss of elasticity and deeper expression lines.
Hyaluronic acid: an amazing moisture booster that immediately plumps up the skin and makes it feel softer, improving the appearance of fine lines. Can be used at any age as the skin always needs to be hydrated. Try Skin Affair’s Hydraboost serum or Dr Grandel’s Elements of Nature Hyaluron Fluid – and seal hydration into the skin by applying a moisturiser directly afterwards. This can be done daily, morning and evening.
