Acne: Treatment With Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Topic Overview

Alpha hydroxy acids such as lactic acid, mandelic acid, and glycolic acid (for example, Alpha Hydrox) are often used in products to treat acne. These products work by drying up whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples and causing the top layer of your skin to peel.

Skin care products that have AHAs are generally safe to use, but they may cause tingling and a mild redness of the skin. Use them less often if you notice that your skin becomes very red or very dry.

Using skin care products with AHAs will make your skin very sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. Be sure to protect your skin from the sun and other sources of UV light.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerAlexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last RevisedFebruary 3, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: February 3, 2011
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology

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