AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids)
Also known as: glycolic acid, mandelic acid, alpha hydroxy acids
Alpha hydroxy acids — water-soluble acids that exfoliate the surface layer of the skin and improve its texture. The classic peel active.
AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) are water-soluble acids used in cosmetics to exfoliate the skin's surface layer and leave it smoother. The best known are glycolic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid. In Estonian beauty salons and with beauty therapists, AHAs are used in chemical peels, home-care creams and serums — the aim is a brighter complexion, a more even skin surface and softer fine lines.
How do AHAs work?
AHAs dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells in the skin's outer layer, so those cells shed faster and fresher skin is revealed underneath. Glycolic acid has the smallest molecule and penetrates deepest, lactic acid is gentler and more hydrating, and mandelic acid suits sensitive skin and works more slowly.
Lower-concentration products (5–10%) suit everyday home use, while professional peels (20–70%) are done with a beauty therapist at a beauty salon. After an AHA treatment the skin becomes more sun-sensitive — SPF is mandatory in the morning.
AHAs in Estonia
In Estonia, almost every larger beauty salon and beauty studio offers AHA peels — the database lists 44 chemical-peel providers. The price for a single session is usually €40–80, and buying a course (3–6 sessions) gets you a package price. Stronger peels (above 30%) require a trained beauty therapist — unsupervised use can cause burns and pigment disorders.
Frequently asked questions
What are AHAs?
AHAs, or alpha hydroxy acids, are water-soluble acids (glycolic, lactic, mandelic, citric, malic acid) that exfoliate the skin's surface layer. In cosmetics they're used to achieve a smoother, more even and brighter complexion.
Are AHAs safe in Estonia?
Low-concentration home-care products are safe if you follow the packaging instructions and use SPF during the day. Have stronger treatment peels (20%+) done only by a trained beauty therapist — incorrect use can cause burns and pigment spots.
Where can I learn more about AHAs?
Consult your beauty therapist about the right concentration and peel course. At Estonian beauty salons you can get a professional skin assessment and a personal recommendation on which acid suits your skin type.
Related pages
This service in Estonia
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