1. They Exfoliate

According to skincare experts the world over, one of the best benefits of alpha hydroxy acid is that it makes a great exfoliator. That means it helps slough off excess skin cells, leaving your youthful radiant skin shining through. It’s not always recommended to exfoliate every day so talk to your doctor about how often you should be using alpha hydroxy acid. Proper exfoliation also enhances sunscreen absorption by removing the barrier of dull, built-up cells on your skin's surface.

2. Anti-Aging

Alpha hydroxy acid promotes blood flow, which means it helps plump and firm your skin, leaving your fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable. We all want to stay looking young and fresh, right? Choosing products that contain alpha hydroxy acids can really help. They are present in a wide range of skincare products, including sunscreen, facial creams and serums. For more detailed research on skincare safety, you can review guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

3. Lightening

As you get older, you might start seeing those dreaded age spots. No one wants those! Including me. Fortunately, incorporating alpha hydroxy acids into your routine can help. According to the experts, this magical ingredient can help fade those spots and leave your skin tone and pigment looking even and clean. You can combine this with anti-aging skincare routines for the best overall skin clarity. You’ll have to use your products on a regular basis for the best hydroxy acid benefits.

4. Helps Sunscreen Absorption

By now you know how vital it is to wear sunscreen all day every day. Well it turns out that combining your sunscreen with alpha hydroxy acids can help your skin better absorb your favorite sun protection product. Your sunscreen will last longer and will soak in better because the alpha hydroxy acid makes your skin more open to the ingredients in the sunscreen. Learn more about comprehensive sun protection guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology.

5. Repairs Sun Damage

As if that weren’t enough, alpha hydroxy acids can also help repair existing sun damage. The ingredient can help counteract the dry and leathery skin that often occurs with prolonged sun exposure. That means softer and smoother skin with regular use. If you spent your younger years basking in the sunshine without sunscreen, start using alpha hydroxy acids and see what they can do for you, especially when paired with remedies for moisturizing dry skin.

6. Moisturizes Skin

Hydrated skin is healthy skin, so using products that keep your skin pumped full of moisture is a great way to stay looking young and healthy. Alpha hydroxy acids are great for treating dry skin and keeping it moisturized. It’s especially beneficial if you use skin lotions that contain it so read the ingredients list carefully before choosing your products. You can also consult resources on skincare at the Mayo Clinic.

7. Inexpensive

Unlike many skin care products, alpha hydroxy acids don’t always have to cost a ton. True, some of the products that contain them are on the pricey side, but you don’t have to shell out to benefit from them. Plenty of drugstore brands are just as effective and can save you some dollars at the cash register while delivering full alpha hydroxy acid skin benefits.

Do you use products that contain alpha hydroxy acids? My dermatologist recommended a great cream that helped ease the signs of aging I lamented about every time I had a visit with her. Will you try them out now?