The skin represents the interface between an individual and other members of society,1 as well as providing protective and physiological functions.
Contemporary skincare has become increasingly popular over time for the promotion of skin health, prevention of ageing and the treatment of some skin conditions. It uses a variety of functional ingredients to cause multifaceted activity in restoring and repairing skin.
Hydroxy acids are widely used and studied skincare compounds and have become increasingly popular ingredients in skincare for therapeutic and cosmetic applications.
What are hydroxy acids? Hydroxy acids in skincare include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), polyhydroxy acids (HAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), aldobionic HAs (BAs) and aromatic hydroxy acids (AMAs).2 They have been shown to reverse the effects of photoageing and improve wrinkles, skin elasticity, tone and hydration.3
Since their introduction to dermatology around 40 years ago, it has been found that applied topically, via the detachment of the hyperkeratotic stratum corneum, hydroxy acids also provide beneficial…
