The cosmetic industry is a constantly evolving and dynamic arena. New products frequently come into the market harnessing both new and established ingredients. This article investigates commonly used cosmetic ingredients, their application, and the notable developing fields within cosmeceuticals.
Hydroxy acids (HAs) have been used for their skincare properties since as far back as ancient Egypt, when Cleopatra reportedly bathed in sour milk, a rich source of lactic acid. Lactic acid is a form of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Other HAs include polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), aldobionic acids (BAs) and aromatic hydroxyl acids (AMAs).
AHAs are naturally-sourced non-toxic carboxyl acid.1AHAs are naturally-sourced non-toxic carboxyl acid.1 Aside from lactic acid, other AHAs include: glycolic acid, which is sourced naturally from sugar cane; citric acid from citric fruits; malic acid from apples and tartaric acid derived from fruits and grape wine.2 AHAs are used in a wide range of cosmetic products. They destroy the desmosomal attachments between corneocytes, and therefore reduce corneocyte cohesion.3 These properties have led to their successful use in xerosis…
