Although there is not a perfect answer for a skincare routine, acid skincare is a steady stellar within the skincare routines of so many people. 

If you are not properly using your acids, they can actually harm your skin. 

In today's blog, we will help you decide which acids you should add to your routine and how to use them according to your skin. So, keep scrolling till the end!

Which Acid Do You Need?

Since most acids have an exfoliating effect, they can inevitably irritate your skin, the faster and the stronger they work. So, that's why you need to choose the type of acids according to the effects you desire, and the concentration of the acids according to your skin type and condition. 

1) Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is effective in improving the skin's elasticity and is also effective in brightening because it prevents hyperpigmentation and gives you glowing and youthful skin. 

Vitamin C products can be found in various formulations as they are so popular and work really well with all skin types. 

However, Vitamin C powder exists in a sharp shape with a hard crystal structure, so some high-content products may cause skin irritation with their grainy textures. (Notes: some high-concentration products are made by breaking the powder into smaller pieces, which are safer to use and have minimal irritation.)

If you are using Vitamin C for the very first time, you may feel a stinging or dry sensation. So, start using the product with a lower concentration. 

AHA & BHA

Alpha and beta hydroxy acids are two main acids that chemically exfoliate the skin's outermost layer. They each exfoliate in different ways, so you can choose which acids you need according to your skin type. 

AHA

Alpha hydroxy acid or AHA is water soluble, so it cannot penetrate the skin's natural oils. It means that AHAs only exfoliate the skin's surface. 

There are three types of AHAs and in today's blog, we will be discussing three of them:

Glycolic Acid is effective because it has small molecules that make it easy to penetrate into the skin. But the more effective the skincare product is, the more irritating it can be on the skin. Since glycolic acid can leave your skin with a stinging sensation, it's good to use when your skin isn't in a sensitive state. 

Lactic Acid has larger molecules than glycolic acid. So, it's less irritating because it penetrates the skin slowly. Also, lactic acid is effective in increasing the moisture content of the skin, so it is recommended for dry skin types.

Mandellic Acid is great for sensitive skin types that require gentle products over immediate results. It is very similar to lactic acid and suitable for sensitive skin. 

BHA 

Beta hydroxy acid or BHA is also known as salicylic acid. However, when you look at the ingredient list of BHA products, there are times when you can't find salicylic acid on the list. In that case, try looking for Salix Alba Bark Water. 

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, the oil ingredient BHA is highly recommended because it penetrates into the pores and dissolves dead skin cells, which makes it effective in removing white and blackheads. 

Azelaic Acid 

Azelaic acid is great for not only acne but also hyperpigmentation from acne scars, as it has antibacterial and brightening effects. 

It is similar to retinol because it is effective for acne and brightening. While Retinol is recommended to avoid during pregnancy, azelaic acid is considered totally to even use during pregnancy. 

Unfortunately, some countries including Korea prohibit the use of azelaic acid in cosmetic products, because a high concentration of azelaic acid can irritate the skin. However, many countries still view that this ingredient is not as dangerous. 

So if you live in a country that doesn't sell azelaic acid, you can purchase it from a website like Amazon. 

If you are using it for the first time, use azelaic acid with a maximum concentration of 10 percent. Make sure you don't go any higher. 

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid attracts moisture, so you can usually find it in various hydrating products. Unlike other acids, Hyaluronic acid doesn't irritate the skin. 

You might think ''Will applying Hyaluronic acid to my skin improve my skin's elasticity?'' However the molecular size of hyaluronic acid is too large for it to reach the dermis. 

When you apply hyaluronic acid, it attracts moisture to the stratum corneum. That's why your skin looks so glossy after applying hyaluronic to your skin. 

Can I use Acids every day?

Long story short, it depends on the type of acids and concentration you are using it in. You may want to use acids every day because you want to see quicker and faster results, but if you use acids that cause skin irritation, it can cause itching, inflammation, and peeling of the skin.

If you are using acid for the first time, use it two to three times a week and gradually increase the number as you use it. 

However, if it is hyaluronic acid, which does not irritate the skin, it's fine to use every day in the morning and evening.

Can I use _ & _ together?

What should you do if you want to use different acids together? From the acids we discussed today, we will show you the ingredients that are good to use together and those that are not recommended to be used together.

Conclusion

Before including ay acid into your skincare routine, it's necessary to do a patch test first to make sure that the specific acid is compatible with your skin and to avoid potential irritation or allergic reactions. 

Furthermore, always use a sunscreen of no more than SPF 50 during the day even on a cloudy day, as acids can increase your skin's sensitivity to skin. 

With a suitable and right acid in your hand, you can address your skin's specific needs and achieve a healthier and more radiant complexion.Â