USPA Cell Renewal - The Benefits of Alpha Hydroxy Fruit Acids
Posted on Mon, Dec 19, 2011
A fermentation process leads to the formation of the various acids from the collected fruits, including lactic acid. Lactic is favoured alpha hydroxy as it is a component of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) which consists of amino acids, a component of the important peptide chains. This natural humectant quality leads to increased hydration as it binds water to the surface and assists the skin proteins in absorbing moisture. Long term benefits include increases in firmness, hydration, smoothness and collagen. Lactic is also a pH modifier, making it effective for acne.
Promoting exfoliation of the outer layers of the skin is especially relevant since most pigmentation alterations associated with photo damage can be attributed to the thickening of the stratum corneum. When use of AHA’s are combined with agents such as Pure C Complex Serum, clients will see more dramatic results for evening of skin tone and lessening of pigmentation. As the alpha hydroxy encourages the pigmented cells to shed, the vitamin C will brighten and lessen the formation of new pigmentation - as long as the client is diligent about sun care. AHA’s are one part of an overall improvement regimen, which should include a variety of anti-oxidants, vitamins, bioflavonoids, and sun protection.
Soft, flexible and more youthful skin
While the body produces AHA’s on its own, it also produces alpha acetoxy acids -AAA- which do the opposite of AHA’s - they thicken the horny layer, which can lead to congestion and less flexible skin. Citric acid, another by-product of our berry fermentation process, has been shown to have remarkable effects on sun damaged skin. Studies on citric acid have shown an increase in viable epidermal thickness, or the thickness of the basal cell layer of living cells, as well as in the levels of two specific types of GAG: hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate.
Hyaluronic occurs naturally in the skin and has the remarkable property of being able to bind up to 1000 times its own weight in water. A small change in the amount of GAGs in the dermis can result in a large increase in its hydration. As we age, the natural levels of HA drop off, but they are easily replaced with topical applications. Other studies have shown increases in factors that contribute to collagen through continued use of AHA. The epidermis becomes thicker and papillary dermal changes included increased thickness, increased acid mucopolysaccharides, improved quality of elastic fibers, and increased density of collagen.
Green Tea Synergy
Uspa’s Botanical Alpha Hydroxy Cell Renewal formula includes an infusion of green tea to buffer any propensity towards sensitivity. Green tea’s anti-inflammatory properties soothe the skin while providing important antioxidant benefits. Many UProfessionals also recommend the Aloe Hydrant Gel with Green Tea to complement the AHA use. The aloe further binds moisture to the skin, soothes and firms. This combination suits oily or acne skin as well with its oil free formula.
Does it all sound like hard work and heavy going? Well not if you know the USPA product range. USPA do all the research and hard work of knowing what works best for the optimum result for your skin. For further information, check out the USPA product range. If you have any questions we can help you with, please feel free to post a comment below, or on our facebook page.