Acid's in skin care
In everyday life, our skin is exposed to the elements and often trying its best to maintain the production of natural oils, vitamins and acids.
Sometimes due to surgery, poor health or chronic health issues, some medications, pregnancy, prolonged skin care neglect or the use of not so beneficial skin care products, our skin cannot make or manage to make the amount of nutrients it needs to keep itself healthy.
By using products rich in certain ingredients, we are delivering a life line and dosing our skin with these incredibly essential properties it needs to regenerate.
Some of the most important ingredients to look for are:
Lauric Acid – a saturated fatty acid commonly found in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and, to a lesser extent, in dairy products. It is known for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which make it a valuable ingredient in skincare and personal care products. Lauric acid is also used in the production of soaps and cosmetics due to its ability to create a rich lather and cleanse effectively. In the body, lauric acid is converted into monolaurin, a compound that helps fight off harmful pathogens. Its presence in certain foods and products contributes to both nutritional benefits and protective effects for skin and overall health.
Oleic Acid - is beneficial for the skin due to its exceptional moisturizing and nourishing properties. As a monounsaturated fatty acid, it helps to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin soft and hydrated. Oleic acid also has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe irritated or sensitive skin and reduce redness. Its ability to penetrate deeply makes it effective in delivering nutrients and supporting skin repair. Additionally, oleic acid enhances the absorption of other active ingredients in skincare products, making it a valuable component in creams, oils, and lotions designed for dry or mature skin types.
Linoelic Acid - an essential polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in human health. It cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained through the diet, commonly found in plant-based oils such as sunflower, safflower, and soybean oil, as well as in nuts and seeds. Linoleic acid is important for maintaining healthy cell membranes, supporting skin barrier function, and contributing to normal growth and development. It also plays a role in regulating inflammation and supporting overall cardiovascular health. Deficiency in linoleic acid can lead to dry skin, hair loss, and impaired wound healing.
Palmitic Acid- a saturated fatty acid that is widely found in both animal and plant sources, including palm oil, meat, dairy products, and some nuts and seeds. It is one of the most common saturated fatty acids in the human body and plays a role in the structure and function of cell membranes. Palmitic acid is also used in the food industry as an ingredient in processed foods and in the production of soaps and cosmetics due to its emollient properties.
Glycolic Acid - a highly valued in skincare for its ability to gently exfoliate the skin and promote a brighter, smoother complexion. As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid has a small molecular size that allows it to penetrate the skin effectively, breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells and encouraging their removal. This process helps to unclog pores, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and fade hyperpigmentation or dark spots. Regular use of glycolic acid can improve skin texture, enhance radiance, and support the renewal of healthy skin cells, making it a popular ingredient in products targeting dullness, uneven tone, and signs of aging.
Myristic Acid- a saturated fatty acid commonly found in animal fats, coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and certain dairy products. It is a 14-carbon long-chain fatty acid that plays a role in the structure of cell membranes and is used by the body in the modification of proteins, a process known as myristoylation. Myristic acid is also utilized in the cosmetic and personal care industries for its emollient and surfactant properties, helping to improve the texture and stability of creams, lotions, and soaps AND it brings your skin to a glow!
Salicylic Acid - a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) widely used in skincare for its powerful exfoliating and acne-fighting properties. It works by penetrating deep into the pores, dissolving excess oil and dead skin cells that can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. Its ability to gently exfoliate the skin’s surface and inside the pores makes it especially effective for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and other forms of mild to moderate acne. In addition to its clarifying benefits, salicylic acid can improve overall skin texture and promote a clearer, smoother complexion when used regularly
Lactic Acid - is beneficial for the skin due to its gentle exfoliating and hydrating properties. As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk, lactic acid helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion without causing significant irritation. It also acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, which helps to improve hydration and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Lactic acid can reduce the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture, and dark spots, making it a popular ingredient in products designed for sensitive or dry skin types. Regular use of lactic acid can lead to softer, brighter, and more even-toned skin.
They all reinforce the production of cells in one way or another, all beneficial for troubled skin, or skin that simply needs a boost to regenerate and repair.
*Cite: Acid Function in Skin care https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3047947/
*Cite: Linoleic acid function for health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3650500/
