FAQ: ABOUT AHAs AND PHAs
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Before selecting the treatment regimen most appropriate for your skin, you should understand more about AHAs and PHAs.
What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is an alphahydroxy (AHA), an ingredient in most Glytone products. In its natural state, glycolic acid is found in sugar cane juice. Chemically, it is the smallest AHA molecule and is very effective in penetrating the outer layer of skin. Numerous scientific and clinical studies show that glycolic acid formulations, when used as suggested, result in significant improvements in rough and dry skin, oily and acne-prone skin, fine lines and wrinkles, and unevenly pigmented skin.
Will glycolic acid irritate my skin?
These products are used under the guidance of expert dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and other clinicians. Some people may experience mild stinging when first beginning treatment. Physicians will often recommend one product at the beginning of treatment and make changes as treatment progresses in order to achieve maximum results. We recommend you discuss your condition and expectations for results with Dr. Hadley and choose products accordingly.
What is a PHA? What is G4?
Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are an important second generation of alphahydroxys (AHAs). The particular name for the chemical molecule with the code name G4 is gluconolactone. G4 is derived from a naturally occurring sugar acid found in your skin, and, because of its chemical structure, is very hydrating. This translates to an ability to highly moisturize the skin. Additionally, because G4 formulations penetrate the skin slowly and consistently, people who experience stinging, itching, burning, or redness (so called "sensitive skin" types) can experience the many known benefits of AHAs without fear of the irritation or discomfort that may occur with traditional AHAs. This "gentle giant" is especially useful for the sensitive skin parts of everyone's birthday suits, such as around the eyes and on the lips. All the same benefits of smoothness in skin tone and texture, and a younger-looking, more radiant skin can be seen with continued use of PHAs.
What is the difference between AHAs & PHAs, and regular moisturizers?
Many regular moisturizers hydrate the skin simply by adding water to the skin or by trapping water in the skin. AHAs and PHAs not only attract and bind water, but they actually help the skin moisturize itself by correcting abnormal cellular exfoliation, which is a primary cause of dry skin. Cracking, flaking, and peeling of the skin will be improved through the use of AHA and PHA formulations.
What is the difference between Glytone products and products such as Retin-A and Renova?
Retin-A and Renova are prescription medications that contain Vitamin A acid (retinoic acid) and are used in the treatment of acne and photoaging. These drugs are only available by prescription. Glytone products contain AHAs and PHAs and are available without a prescription. They have been shown to improve skin texture and tone, and can be expected to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Unlike products containing retinoic acid, which can be drying and irritating to the skin, Glytone products are very moisturizing and essentially non-irritating.
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Remember we have an in-house pharmacy for your convenience, too.
For more information, give us a call at (281) 597-1010 or send us email.
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