AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) Fruit Acids
Common Name
AHA Fruit Acids
INCI
Aqua/Eau/Water, Lemon Extract (Citrus limonum), Pineapple Fruit Extract (Ananas sativus), Passion Flower Fruit Extract (Passiflora edulis), Grape Fruit Extract (Vitis vinifera), Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate.
Extraction or Production Process
The extraction of AHA Fruit Acids typically involves a process of fermentation and distillation. Fruits such as lemons, pineapples, passion flowers, and grapes are fermented under controlled conditions. The resulting mixture is then distilled to increase the concentration of acids. The process is carefully monitored to ensure that the beneficial properties of the extracts are preserved while achieving the desired acidity level.
Sources
AHAs are sourced from a variety of fruits. For instance, Citric acid is commonly extracted from citrus fruits like lemons; Malic acid from apples and pears; Tartaric acid from grapes; and Glycolic acid from sugarcane. These ingredients are predominantly extracted from the juice or pulp of the fruits.
Country of Origin
The ingredients are sourced globally, depending on the fruit type. For example, lemons are often sourced from Italy, pineapples from countries like Thailand, passion fruit from Brazil, and grapes from France.
Function
In cosmetic formulations, AHAs serve primarily as exfoliants. They help in removing dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of age spots and fine lines, and improving skin texture. AHAs are also known for their ability to enhance skin moisture by increasing the skin's hyaluronic acid content.
Properties
AHA Fruit Acids are known for their exfoliating properties. They loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, facilitating their removal and revealing fresher, younger skin beneath. This property makes them highly effective in anti-aging and skin brightening products.
AHAs are water-soluble acids making them ideal for use in various skincare products. Their properties include increasing cell turnover, brightening skin tone, and improving skin texture.
Benefits
The benefits of AHAs include promoting clearer, more youthful skin by accelerating the natural exfoliation process, improving skin hydration, and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Contraindications and Precautions
While AHAs are generally safe for use in cosmetics, they can increase skin's sensitivity to the sun, necessitating the use of sunscreen as part of a skincare routine. It is generally advised that products containing AHAs should not be used by pregnant women or those with sensitive skin without prior consultation from a dermatologist.
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