We are all quite familiar with using acids in our skincare routine. Our aspirations for a gleaming, dewy face are that much closer – thanks to their skin-brightening and exfoliating effects. Our skin is significantly more exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays now that summer is in full swing and we are spending more time outdoors. And since acids increase the sensitivity of our skin to sunlight, the question is can our skin withstand the same level of exfoliation and effort that these acids put in, after using sunscreen? We are dissecting the issue of combining and layering skincare acid and sunscreen right here.
Well, You Need To Apply Sunscreen After Using Skincare Acids
Although using skincare acids is safe, it’s crucial to avoid overusing and overexposing our skin to them. Summertime can make your skin much more sensitive, and using too many layers of acids might be way too exfoliating for your skin. If you don’t want to exclude them from your skincare regime entirely, move them to the evening skincare routine during the warmer months. Another important point: It’s crucial to end your skincare routine with an SPF if you use acids throughout the summer (or any other season — remember, UVA and UVB rays are present even on an overcast day) to protect newly-exfoliated skin from sun damage.
Chemical Exfoliation + Sunscreen = Healthy Glowing Skin
While being indoors, we still advise using a sunscreen every day. Windows are vulnerable to UV radiation. Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), Vitamin C, Alpha-Arbutin, or any other facial acid that encourages cellular turnover and inhibits tyrosinase activity, should be used sparingly if at all. This is due to the newly exposed cells’ fragility and susceptibility to sunburn.
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The skin’s melanin serves a useful purpose by protecting against dangerous UV rays. Melanin production frequently malfunctions, resulting in uneven and patchy tanning. In order to get the most out of the aforementioned active ingredients and avoid aggravating pigmentation, wearing sunscreen is essential while using a skincare acid.
If you are using face acids without sunscreen, there is a chance that hyperpigmentation and tanning will increase rather than decreasing as expected.
Precautions & Tips!
- When applying acids on your skin (or otherwise) throughout the day, apply sunscreen every two hours to prevent skin damage.
- Use AHA products with a 10% or lower content while pregnant or nursing.
- Pay attention to other active ingredients in your skincare products, such as retinol and antioxidants. These ingredients have the potential to amplify the scorching or scarring-causing effects of some acids.
- Before introducing acids into your skincare routine, get professional advice from an expert to choose the best acid for your skin type. Avoid using acid-based products excessively.
- It is advised to perform a tiny patch test before applying any acid. Start with a low concentration and work your way up as your skin acclimatises.
We cannot stress this enough, SPF is your only true BFF!
Featured Image: Instagram
