Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are water-soluble chemical exfoliants that work by removing dead skin cells from the upper surface of the skin, allowing new skin cells to generate and resulting in more radiant skin. AHAs are generally used to reduce signs of aging, often targeting fine lines and pigmentation. Whilst AHAs are naturally occuring (for instance in sugarcane), the versions used in skincare are generally produced in a lab. The most commonly used AHAs are lactic acid and glycolic acid.
