There is now, 25 years after the introduction of Alpha hydroxy acids to over the counter skin care, little question that the exfoliation leads to healthier skin, and natural fruit acid exfoliants can dramatically improve acne. A recent article in the New York Times, however, reflects some of the confusion about the best way to exfoliate the skin. Most over the counter products contain Glycolic or Lactic acid, and like their natural fruit acid counterparts, work because they effectively thin the microscopically thin layer of dead outer skin cells. It is in this region micro-fine fissures start, which grows into wrinkles, especially in the absence of adequate moisturization. However the stronger and harsher alpha hydroxy acids, specifically Glycolic and Lactic acids, can also strip oils from the skin causing dryness and in some cases sensitivity to sunlight. The more expensive, but milder natural fruit acids, however, work actually help retain skin moisture and vitality. They exfoliate slower, but result in balanced skin moisturization. Used twice daily for a couple of weeks most people will see visible results.
