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Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) are a group of natural acids found in foods. Alpha hydroxy acids include citric acid (found in citrus fruits), glycolic acid (found in sugar cane), lactic acid (found in sour milk and tomato juice), malic acid (found in apples), tartaric acid (found in grapes), and others.
Alpha hydroxy acids are most commonly used for skin conditions such as dry skin, aging skin, or acne.
How does it work?
Alpha hydroxy acids seem to work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells. They can also increase the thickness of deeper layers of skin, promoting firmness.
Likely effective for:
- Aging skin. Applying alpha hydroxy acid in a lotion, cream, solution, or skin peel can decrease wrinkles and some other signs of aging or sun damage.
- Dry skin. Applying lotion or cream containing alpha hydroxy acid can improve dry skin.