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Acne: Treatment With Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Overview
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
Current as of: August 2, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Ellen K. Roh MD - Dermatology
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Current as of: August 2, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Ellen K. Roh MD - Dermatology
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