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

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last Revised February 3, 2011

Last Revised: February 3, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology

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