Skincare acids have become more popular these days and I want to think it’s partly due to the range and affordability the Ordinary has brought. I have a previous post on skincare acids here and how to choose the best for your skin type. In this post, I will be talking about some of The Ordinary’s acids and which ones I have used. I hope this post will help you, in case you are wondering which one to get/how to use them.
Warning
Please note, skincare acids will leave your skin more vulnerable to sun damage! It is important that you use SPF in the morning, every day to protect your skin. You need an SPF 30 or above. There is no use of using acids if you don’t use sun protection because you will be doing more damage than good.
The Ordinary Acids
AHA is recommended for sun damaged skin and dry skin. There are many types of AHA e.g. glycolic acid (most popular) mandelic acid, lactic acid, citric acid.
BHA is recommended for oily to blemish-prone skin and because it is able to deep cleanse pores. For my knowledge (I could be wrong) the only BHA is salicylic acid.
Acids can come in different products e.g. toners, serums, face wash etc. Find the product that works well for you, I would recommend you get your acids in a ‘leave on’ product so that they stay on your skin and work instead of a face wash that is washed out.
Glycolic Toning Solution 7% (AHA)* Toner. I use once a day in the evening following cleansing. I won’t recommend this is this is your 1st ever venture into acids as it’s quite high and it will sting your skin. If you are a first-timer, start with 5% in case you react to it. Always patch test. Review
Lactic acids, 5% & 10% (AHA)* Serum. Two different strengths I have tried the 5% formula which was ok but I didn’t like the scent. Review
AHA 30% BHA 2% mask* Mask. A mild chemical peel with very high acid content. Please do not get it if you absolutely do not need it. This is a wash off mask designed to be used for 10 mins only 2 to 3 times a week. I love this mask because of how smooth it leaves my skin and also because I have hyperpigmentation. It will sting so patch test before putting this on your face. You do not need to combine this with other acid products e.g. an acid toner Review
Salicylic acid 2% (BHA)* this serum is for oily/blemish skin and great for deep cleansing the pores. I love to use this when I am experiencing congestion/blemishes or texture on the skin. Review
Non-exfoliation acids
Every acid isn’t exfoliating! The other acids I have tried from TO
Azelaic acid 10%* is this for texture and pigmentations issues. I didn’t like this as it left my skin quite dry and itchy. It also didn’t have an impact on my hyperpigmentation. Review
Alpha Lipoic Acid 5%* a highly concentrated serum for texture and pigmentation issues. This is actually an antioxidant designed to be used only 2 to 3 times a week. I have added this to my routine and I will be doing a full review soon!
Other acids they stock
Mandelic acid 10%* this is an AHA serum which is supposed to be gentler on the skin due to the larger molecule size
This is a quick introduction to acids and how you can choose and use them effectively in a routine. Please remember to patch test and start slowly with acids. Choose one for your skintype and needs. The most important thing is to use sunscreen every day, all seasons whether acids are in your routine or not but especially if you use them!
Further reading
*-affiliate link
Catch you later!
sarah fynn 