Skip to main content

How to Incorporate AHAs into Your Skincare Routine Without Irritation?

Incorporate AHAs into Your Skincare Routine
 

If you're looking to level up your skincare game, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) might just be the secret weapon you need. Known for their ability to exfoliate the skin, fade dark spots, smooth texture, and boost radiance, AHAs are a favorite among dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike. But as powerful as they are, using them the wrong way can lead to redness, irritation, or even long-term skin damage.

Whether you’re dealing with dullness, uneven tone, acne scars, or early signs of aging, AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid can help—but only if introduced with care. One of the most common mistakes people make is overusing exfoliating acids without understanding how their skin will react. That’s where a proper routine comes in.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to safely and effectively incorporate AHAs into your skincare routine—without the sting. From choosing the right AHA for your skin type to avoiding common ingredient clashes, we’ve got everything you need to start exfoliating the smart way.

So if you're wondering how to get the glowing results of chemical exfoliation without compromising your skin barrier, keep reading. A radiant, smoother complexion could be just a few steps away.

What Are AHAs?

AHAs are water-soluble exfoliating acids that work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. Common AHAs include:

  • Glycolic Acid – best for oily, acne-prone, and aging skin
  • Lactic Acid – gentler, ideal for dry and sensitive skin
  • Mandelic Acid – slow-penetrating, great for beginners and darker skin tones
  • Malic and Citric Acids – mild AHAs often used in combination with others 

Benefits of Using AHAs

  • Removes dull, dead skin cells
  • Unclogs pores and smooths texture
  • Fades hyperpigmentation and acne scars
  • Boosts collagen production over time
  • Improves product penetration

Common Side Effects of Misusing AHAs

  • Burning or stinging
  • Flaky or dry patches
  • Increased sun sensitivity
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Skin barrier damage with overuse 

How to Incorporate AHAs Without Irritation

Follow these dermatologist-approved steps to introduce AHAs safely: 

1. Start Slow (Especially for Beginners)

  • Begin with low concentrations (5% or less).
  • Use 1–2 times per week at night for the first 2–3 weeks.
  • Gradually increase frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.


Tip: Start with lactic acid if your skin is dry or sensitive.

2. Use AHAs in Your Nighttime Routine

AHAs can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. To minimize risk:

  • Apply AHA products in the evening.
  • Follow up with a gentle moisturizer to soothe and protect the barrier. 

3. Avoid Mixing With Certain Actives

Do not combine AHAs with these in the same routine unless your skin is well-trained:

  • Retinol or Retinoids
  • Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
  • Other exfoliating acids (BHA, PHA)
  • Benzoyl Peroxide


Instead, alternate them across nights or use them at different times of day. 

4. Always Follow With SPF

AHAs thin the top layer of skin, making it more vulnerable to UV damage. Daily sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) is non-negotiable when using AHAs—even if you're only applying them at night. 

5. Hydrate and Repair the Skin Barrier

After using AHAs:

  • Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid or panthenol.
  • Use a barrier-repairing moisturizer with ceramides or peptides.
  • Consider using niacinamide on off days to strengthen your skin and reduce inflammation. 

 6. Choose the Right Formulation

Depending on your skin type, you may want:

 

Skin Type Ideal AHA Why
Sensitive Lactic acid, mandelic acid Gentler and less irritating
Dry Lactic acid Exfoliates while moisturizing
Oily Glycolic acid Penetrates deeper to unclog pores
Acne-prone Glycolic acid Reduces post-acne marks and improves texture

7. Patch Test First

Apply the product to a small area (like behind the ear or on your jawline) for a few days. Look for any signs of:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Peeling or sensitivity

If it passes, you’re safe to proceed!

Sample AHA Skincare Routine (Beginner Friendly)

Night Routine (2x per week): 

  • Gentle Cleanser (non-foaming)
  • AHA Serum or Toner (5% glycolic or lactic)
  • Hydrating Serum (optional)
  • Barrier-repair Moisturizer 

Day Routine:

  • Cleanser
  • Antioxidant Serum (e.g., niacinamide or vitamin C if tolerated)
  • Moisturizer
  • Broad-spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 50) 

Final Tips

  • Avoid exfoliating scrubs while using AHAs.
  • Don’t use AHA products on broken, inflamed, or irritated skin.
  • Give your skin “rest days” between exfoliation. 

Conclusion

 
AHAs are powerful, effective tools for glowing, smoother skin—when used correctly. The key to avoiding irritation is starting slow, choosing the right type for your skin, and prioritizing sun protection and hydration.

If you're unsure which AHA is best for you, explore our blog on Glycolic vs. Lactic Acid to learn more.
 
Read Also:
 
Labels:
Location: Switzerland

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

10 Proven Ways to Improve Skin Texture Naturally at Home

  When it comes to skincare goals, achieving smooth, radiant, and even-toned skin is often at the top of the list. But in reality, many of us struggle with rough patches, enlarged pores, dullness, or uneven texture. These common skin concerns can be caused by a mix of factors—ranging from environmental pollution and sun damage to dehydration, poor diet, or even using the wrong skincare products. Improving your skin texture doesn’t always require expensive treatments or clinical procedures. In fact, there are plenty of natural and affordable ways to achieve healthier skin right at home. With the right habits and consistent care, you can help your skin look and feel smoother, softer, and more youthful—no matter your age or skin type. The secret lies in creating a routine that focuses on exfoliation, hydration, nourishment, and protection. By incorporating simple, proven techniques into your daily or weekly routine, you can begin to repair and refine your skin’s surface over time. Fro...
Post a Comment
Read more

Top 7 Benefits of Using Radiance Face Cream Daily

  When it comes to skincare, consistency is key—and choosing the right product can make all the difference. A well-formulated face cream doesn’t just moisturize; it works behind the scenes to brighten, protect, and rejuvenate your skin. That’s where daily use of a high-quality cream becomes essential.  Let’s explore the top 7 benefits of incorporating a nourishing face cream into your daily skincare routine.  1. Deep Hydration Your skin needs moisture to stay smooth, soft, and healthy. A face cream that penetrates deep into the layers of your skin ensures long-lasting hydration. It prevents flakiness and tightness while maintaining your skin’s natural barrier, especially in dry or cold climates. 2. Enhanced Skin Radiance Using a nourishing cream daily helps revive dull and tired-looking skin. Ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide promote an even skin tone and give your complexion a natural glow. Regular use can lead to visibly brighter skin over time. 3. Reduces Fine...
Post a Comment
Read more

What Does Vitamin C Serum Do for Your Skin?

When it comes to skincare superheroes, Vitamin C serum is often at the top of the list—and for good reason. This powerful antioxidant offers a wide range of benefits, from brightening your complexion to protecting against environmental stressors. But what exactly does Vitamin C serum do for your skin, and why is it considered a must-have in your skincare routine? Let’s dive into the transformative power of this skincare essential. 1. Brightens Dull Skin One of the most celebrated benefits of Vitamin C serum is its ability to brighten the skin. It helps reduce dullness and revives tired-looking skin by inhibiting melanin production—the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone. With regular use, Vitamin C gives your skin a more radiant and luminous appearance. 2. Reduces Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots Whether caused by sun exposure, acne scars, or hormonal changes, hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern. Vitamin C helps fade these dark spots by blocking the enzyme ty...
Post a Comment
Read more