aliva
07-31-2008, 08:02 PM
AHA products are classified as cosmetics, not drugs, so manufacturers do not have to prove that they’re safe or effective. Virtually no published scientific studies have compared products head-to-head. To make matters worse, cosmetics companies are extremely closemouthed about two factors that determine a chemical exfoliant’s effectiveness: the concentration of the AHA and the acidity, or pH, of the cream or lotion base.
So how can you improve your odds of getting an AHA that works?
First, stick with glycolic or lactic acid, the exfoliating chemicals that has been tested most and seems to give the best results. Cosmetic AHAs seem to work best in 5% to 8% strength (higher concentrations may be too irritating). Do not be fooled by similar ingredients such as sodium lactate or, in a more appealing vein, sugarcane extract, mixed fruit acids, and fruit extract. They may sound as if Mother Nature herself massages them into her face every dusk and dawn, but they won’t exfoliate as thoroughly.
So how can you improve your odds of getting an AHA that works?
First, stick with glycolic or lactic acid, the exfoliating chemicals that has been tested most and seems to give the best results. Cosmetic AHAs seem to work best in 5% to 8% strength (higher concentrations may be too irritating). Do not be fooled by similar ingredients such as sodium lactate or, in a more appealing vein, sugarcane extract, mixed fruit acids, and fruit extract. They may sound as if Mother Nature herself massages them into her face every dusk and dawn, but they won’t exfoliate as thoroughly.