What are PHAs in Skincare?

What Are PHAs? The Gentle Next Generation of Chemical Exfoliants

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are often described as the next generation of AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) in skincare. Like AHAs, PHAs are chemical exfoliants that work by removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, helping to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

 

How Do PHAs Work?

PHAs have a larger molecular size than traditional AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid (glycolic acid has the smallest molecule size). This means PHAs penetrate the skin more slowly and work primarily on the surface, making them much gentler and less likely to cause irritation or sensitivity.

Additionally, PHAs act as humectants, attracting and binding water to the skin. This helps to keep your skin hydrated while the exfoliation process occurs, preventing dryness and maintaining the skin’s moisture balance.

 

Why Should You Use PHAs in Your Skincare Routine?

  • Gently exfoliate dead skin cells to reveal a smoother, brighter skin texture
  • Promote increased cell renewal for a rejuvenated complexion
  • Hydrate and soothe the skin as they exfoliate
  • Ideal for those with sensitive, dry or reactive skin due to their mild nature
Gentle exfoliating tonic for sensitive skin

Common Types of PHAs in Skincare

The most frequently used PHAs include:

  • Gluconolactone
  • Galactose
  • Lactobionic acid

 

Who Can Benefit from PHAs?

PHAs are generally suitable for all skin types, especially for those with sensitive, dry, or ageing skin. Their gentle exfoliating and hydrating properties make them an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve skin texture without irritation.

PHAs are suitable for those with sensitive skin

Which PHA Is in Lucy Bee’s Exfoliating Tonic?

Our AHA & PHA Exfoliating Tonic contains gluconolactone, a gentle yet effective PHA.

 

Why We Choose Gluconolactone

Gluconolactone is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin as it exfoliates without causing irritation or redness. While the tonic also contains AHAs, which work deeper into the skin to promote cell turnover, gluconolactone focuses on exfoliating and hydrating the skin’s outer layer—leaving your complexion glowing, soft, and well moisturised.

 

Other Key Ingredients in Lucy Bee’s AHA & PHA Exfoliating Tonic

  • AHAs (like lactic acid): Increase cell renewal and exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Supports epidermal hydration by attracting and retaining moisture
  • Aloe Vera: A natural emollient that soothes and conditions the skin, helping reduce inflammation
  • Sodium Lactate: A humectant that binds water to the skin and reduces moisture loss

Together, these ingredients ensure that the tonic not only exfoliates but also deeply hydrates and soothes your skin.

 

smoother and brighter skin from exfoliating tonic

FAQs: All About PHAs

Q: Are PHAs safe for sensitive skin?

A: Yes, PHAs have larger molecules and work gently on the skin’s surface, making them ideal for sensitive or reactive skin types.

 

Q: What is the difference between PHAs and AHAs?

A: Both exfoliate dead skin cells, but PHAs are gentler due to their larger molecular size and also hydrate the skin, while AHAs penetrate more deeply.

 

Q: Can I use PHAs every day?

A: Yes, PHAs are mild enough for daily use, but always patch test new products and introduce gradually.

 

Q: Can I combine PHAs with other acids?

A: PHAs are often combined safely with AHAs and BHAs in formulations, like in our Exfoliating Tonic, which uses a blend of AHAs and PHA to target multiple layers of the skin.

 

Q: Will PHAs make my skin more sensitive to the sun?

A: Like other exfoliants, PHAs can increase photosensitivity, so daily SPF is essential when using PHA products.

 

Ready to Experience Gentle, Hydrating Exfoliation?

Try Lucy Bee’s Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA for a natural, soothing way to reveal radiant, smooth skin, suitable even for sensitive skin types.

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