AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and BHA’s (Beta Hydroxy Acids) are leave-on exfoliants that diminish wrinkles and fine lines, increase hydration, stimulate collagen production, firm skin, and fade discoloration by sun-damage and acne.
Today we’re talking about AHA’s because they’re best for dry skin, and we all know we’re suffering from that this winter!
AHA’s are glycolic or lactic acids. They come in gels, lotions, liquids, even pads. There are face exfoliants and body exfoliants. I’ve tested out three products – two face and one body, from NIP+FAB and Reversa
Reversa Skin Smoothing Body Lotion $36 CAD/200ml
My legs are always so dry and scaly in the winter. Every night, after my shower, while my skin is still damp, I rub in this lotion over my legs, butt, arms, and tummy. I love it! It’s formulated with 10% glycolic acid, the highest concentration allowed without a prescription, and a Time Release Glyco-Comfort System that releases this rejuvenating formula over an extended period of time and reduces the stinging sensation that some people experience when using AHA’s.
This body lotion absorbs quickly, smooths out the rough skin on our heels, knees, and elbows, and has prevented (for me) the ingrowns I usually get on my lower legs after waxing,
Honestly this lotion is incredible and I’m loving it this winter.
NIP+FAB Glycolic Fix Extreme Night Pads $22.99 CAD/60 pads
This is a more potent version of their glycolic fix pads, that now contain 5% Glycolic Acid and salicyclic acid. These pads help refine pores. brighten the complexion and decongest the skin. This treatment should only be used 2-3 times a week, one pad at night. If you have sensitive skin, only use it once a week.
The pads are soaked in 5% glycolic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin and fades discoloration, salicylic acid which unclogs the pores and combats blackheads and blemishes, lactic acid which smooths the skin for a more even tone, and hyaluronic acid to improve hydration and keep the skin feeling soft.
These pads a re a godsend and my skin is definitely brighter and smoother in the morning, after using a pad at night.
Reversa Resurfacing Smoothing Cream $40 CAD/50ml
This produces a mild peeling that corrects the appearance of dull and tired skin. It contains 10% glycolic acid with a pH of 3.8 to ensure the best possible efficacy and minimize irritation. A fragmented form of Hyaluronic Acid (naturally present in our skin) is used for a deep dermis hydration resulting in plumper skin and reduced wrinkles. It’s also formulated with Aloe Vera for soothing and to restore suppleness.
I was only using this about 3x a week, at night. I did notice a bit of stinging around my lips and nose but it was only seconds worth.
I don’t have a full review on this yet… something I was using congested my skin. It’s between this resurfacing smoothing cream and the Mario Badescu rosewater spray. I’ve stopped using both and will slowly reintroduce each one separately to find out which one caused the problems. Until then, this is all the info I have for you!
This is my first time experimenting with AHA’s. I’m really loving the Reversa Skin Smoothing Body Lotion and the NIP+FAB Glycolic Fix Extreme Night Pads. I have definitely noticed quite the amazing difference between using these two products.
I’d love to hear your experience with AHA’s or BHA’s. Which do you prefer and why? Leave me a comment below!
