Considering the questionable safety status, FDA and dermatologists advise consumers who use AHA products to follow these precautions: Always protect your skin before going out during the day. Use a sunscreen product with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15. Wear a hat with a brim of at least 4 inches (about 10 [...]
Posts under ‘Aging Skin’
AHA Safety – Sun Sensitivity
An additional concern arose as FDA prepared its 1996 report on AHA safety: Some people who had reported adverse reactions cited increased sun sensitivity. In addition, one industry-sponsored study found that participants whose skin was exposed to 4 percent glycolic acid twice daily for 12 weeks developed minimal skin redness with 13 percent less ultraviolet [...]
AHA product status – Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Some in the cosmetic industry have suggested that AHA products are more than simple cosmetics, coining the term “cosmeceutical” to describe them instead. Under the 1938 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, cosmetics are defined as “articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body [...]
Alpha Hydroxy Acids are Everywhere
AHA cosmetics are believed to have derived from the “chemical peels” that dermatologists and plastic surgeons have used for years. The peels, typically trichloroacetic acid, phenol, resorcinol, and salicylic acid, help remove undesirable signs of skin aging, such as discoloration, roughness and wrinkling. The chemicals cause the skin to lose its outer layer, or peel [...]
Alpha Hydroxy Acids for Skin Care
Baby boomers and others who once sought the sun’s rays with little thought of skin damage are now paying the price–billions of dollars annually for cosmetics containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Derived from fruit and milk sugars and served up in creams and lotions, AHAs attract customers with their supposed ability to reduce wrinkles, spots, [...]
Skin Cancer Awareness
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. The main cause of skin cancer is the sun. Sunlamps and tanning booths can also cause skin cancer. Anyone can get cancer, but people with fair skin that freckles easily are at greatest risk. Skin cancer may be cured if it is [...]
Age Spots and Skin Tags
Age spots are sometimes called “liver spots,” but they have nothing to do with the liver. These flat, brown spots are often caused by years in the sun. They are bigger than freckles, flat, and many times show up on areas like the face, hands, arms, back, and feet. Age spots are harmless, but if [...]
Aging Skin: Bruises & Wrinkles
Bruises Older people may bruise more easily than younger people. And, it can take longer for the bruises to heal. Some medicines or illnesses cause easier bruising. If you see bruises and you don’t know how you got them, especially on parts of your body usually covered by clothing, see your doctor. Wrinkles Over time, [...]
Dry Skin and Itching
Many older people suffer from dry skin, often on their lower legs, elbows, and lower arms. Dry skin feels rough and scaly. There are many possible reasons for dry skin, such as: Not drinking enough liquids Staying out in the sun Being in very dry air Smoking Having stress Losing sweat and oil glands (common [...]