“A COMPLETE GUIDE ON DIFFERENT ACIDS FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE"
Guest Blog Post By Noor UI Ain, Biochemist and Molecular Biologist
Imagine your skin as a fingerprint, entirely one-of-a-kind, just like you. Did you know that personalized medicine is nearly in the future, because the same medication works differently for different people? Similarly, personalized skincare holds its own value. Your skin's uniqueness makes you a unique personality. So, the question arises: how can you personalize your skincare regimen? You're getting confused about which skin type you have and what products to use? Don't worry, we’ve got you covered. Let's thoroughly look at the specific skin type you have and which acid is best for your skin type.
CLASSIFICATION OF SKIN TYPES (FITZPATRICK):
Fitzpatrick is a skin type classification system in dermatology that evaluates your skin tone and reaction rate to exposure to sun rays.
The Fitzpatrick scale was developed by Thomas B. Fitzpatrick in 1975.
CATEGORIES OF FITZPATRICK:
There are six categories of skin types according to the Fitzpatrick scale. Although it's an old strategy, but it's still used by dermatologists to evaluate your skin type. Here are the categories:
- TYPE 1 SKIN:
- Individuals with this skin type have very fair skin.
- Extreme lowest melanin production.
- Can burn easily.
- Rarely get tanned.
- People with type 1 skin are often of Northern European descent.
- TYPE 2 SKIN:
- Type 2 skin is fair skin.
- Melanin is present, but at its lower concentration.
- Can burn moderately.
- Rarely get tanned.
- Common among individuals of European and Caucasian descent.
- TYPE 3 SKIN:
- They are characterized by a light to medium skin tone and light to dark hair and eyes.
- It tans gradually.
- Can get sunburned.
- People belonging to southern Europe, the Middle East, and east Asia have mostly this type of skin.
- TYPE 4 SKIN:
- Olive-toned to light brown skin with dark hair and eyes is present in this type of skin.
- It rarely gets sunburned.
- It can be tanned easily.
- TYPE 5 SKIN:
- Type 5 skin is characterized by medium to dark brown skin, dark hair, and dark eyes.
- It can be tanned easily.
- Rarely burns.
- Individuals in South Africa, the Afro-Caribbean region, and the Africa region, mostly have this type of skin.
- TYPE 6 SKIN:
- Very dark to black skin tone they have.
- It can be tanned deeply.
- It never gets sunburned.
- Common in people of Sub-Saharan African and Melanesian descent.
BASIS OF THE FITZPATRICK SYSTEM:
The Fitzpatrick scale is based on various factors, including:
- Skin color
- Reactions to sun exposure
- Likelihood of tanning
- Sunburn rate
- Reaction to sun damage
HOW SKIN TYPE CLASSIFICATION BENEFITS YOU?
Every skin's needs differ. Your skin requires totally different skincare products and ingredients than others. What's working for you may not benefit your sibling; that can be the case. We've been talking about personalized skincare from the beginning, and now you've got a better idea why It's necessary.
By evaluating your skin type, you can choose better skincare products that can make your skin healthier and brighter.
- AESTHETIC TREATMENTS:
Non-surgical treatments performed with the goal of enhancing your physical appearance also depend on your skin type. There is a possibility that any aesthetic treatment, like Botox or chemical peels, can give you worse side effects than benefits.
- SKIN DISEASES DIAGNOSIS:
Do you know that your skin type can help your dermatologist identify the specific skin condition you have? Yes, dermatologists can easily specify conditions on the basis of the behavior and appearance of a specific skin type.
WHICH ACID TO CHOOSE FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE?
Different acids work differently for different skin types. Choosing a chemical peel that contains the best acid for your skin can work wonders for your skin health and help you achieve the look you desire. Below, we'll delve into some awesome research-backed knowledge tailored specifically to your skin.
- GLYCOLIC ACID:
- Glycolic acid is part of the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family.
- Often called fruit acid as a nickname, its
Derived from the fruit sugar.
- It is a powerful active ingredient found in serums, skin toners, anti-wrinkle creams, and body care creams.
- It is suitable for various skin types, especially Fitzpatrick types I-III.
- Particularly suitable for dry, normal, combination, and blemish skins.
- It naturally exfoliates the skin, helps with hyperpigmentation, and can improve skin texture and fine lines.
“Glycolic acid chemical peels are an effective treatment for all types of acne, inducing rapid improvement and restoration to normal looking skin.”
- SALICYLIC ACID:
- Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA).
- It's originally derived from the bark of certain plants.
- It is effective for oily, acne-prone skin because of its ability to improve the look of clogged pores, and excess oil production.
- It penetrates into the pores and exfoliates from within, leaving the skin with a softer texture.
- It's generally well-tolerated by most skin types.
- LACTIC ACID:
- Lactic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).
- It is well-tolerated and suitable for sensitive or dry skin.
- It exfoliates, moisturizes, and can improve hyperpigmentation. Particularly beneficial for Fitzpatrick types I-III.
- MANDELIC ACID:
- Mandelic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).
- It is gentle and suitable for various skin types.
- It helps with hyperpigmentation, acne, and texture. Particularly good for sensitive skin.
- AZELAIC ACID:
- It is a type of dicarboxylic acid.
- It is effective for treating acne and rosacea.
- It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Well-tolerated by many skin types.
- HYALURONIC ACID:
- It’s not considered an exfoliating acid, but a hydrating one.
- It is excellent for hydrating and plumping the skin.
- Well-tolerated by all skin types.
“When patients complain of rashes or other problems related to hyaluronic acid–containing products, it is often a result of a problem with another ingredient, such as one of the preservatives.”
REMEMBER, DON'T OVERUSE ANY SKINCARE PRODUCT!
CONCLUSION:
Tailoring your skincare routine to your Fitzpatrick skin type is a key step towards achieving healthy, radiant skin. By choosing the right acids that complement your skin's unique characteristics, you can address specific concerns and maintain a balanced complexion. But always consider how much quantity to use. Sometimes, you get the worst results just because you're not using the quantity prescribed. It's essential to monitor your skin reactions and consult with a skincare professional for personalized recommendations.
If you're not sure about what to choose or how to choose, our team of experts is here to guide you in every aspect. Feel free to leave a comment below.
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