Acids For All!

Acid? On the face?? The idea of putting acids onto the skin can be a rather intimidating idea, but when picked right, they could do wonders and be the boost your skincare routine needs. Acids are very popular when it comes to K-beauty, and it pays to know which is the best for your skin type. Here's a quick beauty breakdown on some of our favorites!

Hyaluronic Acid

One of the more popular ones found in K-beauty, hyaluronic acid is famous for its ultra-hydrating properties that not only moisturize but also keep all that hydration locked in. Its a powerful humectant with the ability to withhold 100x its weight in water, providing the skin with ample moisture, making it perfect for getting rid of those dry skin flakes. 

Perfect for: All skin types, especially drier skins

We love: Real Skin's Phyto Serum Hyaluronic Acid 

 

Salicylic Acid

This miracle acid is most known for its effectiveness on oily and acne prone skin. Salicylic acid works to breakdown sebum and dirt that are clogged in the pores, preventing blemishes and minimizing enlarged pores. It also aids in skin repair, evening out textured areas for a smooth complexion. 

Perfect for: Oily / combination / acne prone skin

We love: Mizon's Acence Tea Tree Tock Blemish Spot 

Lactic Acid

Milk is an ancient remedy that has promised soft, smooth skin for centuries (just ask Cleopatra!). Incorporating lactic acid into your beauty regime is fantastic if you get redness easily as soothes while gently helping to control excess sebum production on the surface. It also works to repair the complexion too, keeping redness and irritations at bay.  

Perfect for: Sensitive / oily / combination skin

We love: Missha's Trouble Cut Fresh Toner 

Glycolic Acid

Found in fruits and milk, glycolic acid is great for removing dead skin cells and aiding in skin cell turn over. With constant use, it brightens dull, dry skin, leaving you with a fresh and glowing complexion. It also helps to encourage collagen and elastin production in the skin for a youthful, bouncy touch.

Perfect for : All skin types

We love: Mamonde's Aqua Peel Overnight Cream 

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)

BHA has made their way into lots of skincare products because they work both within the pores and on the surface of the skin too. It helps to exfoliate away dead skin, as well as hydrate the skin for a soft bounce. BHA also has anti-aging properties that encourage cell regeneration and protect your complexion from the sun.  

Perfect for: Normal to combination skin

We love: Benton's Aloe BHA Skin Toner

Citric Acid

Citric acid is a great basic acid that helps to balance the skin's pH while whisking away dead skin cells. It also contains antioxidants that are great for anti-aging and renewing skin cells. Keep this handy for a fresh, smooth complexion.

Perfect for: All skin types 
We love: Son & Park's Beauty Water

Do note that if you're going to be incorporating acids into your skincare regime, you'll definitely want to put on sunscreen before you leave the house as the acids can sometimes be potent, leaving it more prone to sun damage immediately after use (this is especially true with salicylic acid). We love using acids now and again to keep our skin in tip top shape! If you're interested in checking these or any of our other products out, be sure to check out Althea's site (just type the name in the search bar). Do you already include acids in your beauty regime? Which would you like to try? Let us know in the comments down below!