Lactic Acid (AHA): Alpha Hydroxy Acids are a category of acids derived from fruit or milk sugars. They stimulate the desquamation process of the corneocytes, which are found at the surface of the stratum corneum, and stimulate cellular renewal. In relatively low concentrations, Alpha Hydroxy Acids are recognized for having moisturizing effects on the skin as they stimulate the production of amino acids during the corneocyte desquamation phase. In higher concentrations, they have keratolytic effects and help exfoliate and smooth the skin.
AHA-rich fruits and sugars complex: This complex contains whortleberry, orange and lemon extracts, as well as cane and maple sugar extracts. These botanical extracts are naturally rich in Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) such as lactic, glycolic, citric, malic and tartaric acids. They work together in this complex to provide keratolytic action. This complex improves the desquamation process of the corneocytes, which are found at the surface of the stratum corneum, and stimulates cellular renewal. It frees the skin of its impurities to cleanse, smooth and refine the skin texture, thereby softening and enhancing the skin.
Salicylic acid (BHA): Salicylic Acid is a BHA naturally synthesized by certain plants such as the willow. It is a keratolytic agent that helps eliminate dead cells by breaking bonds between horny layer cells in the epidermis and by causing these cells to be superficially exfoliated without leaving cell waste. The skin is smoother and softer. It also has purifying properties to smooth imperfections and combat blackheads.
Gluconolactone (PHA): PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) are less irritating than AHAs (alpha hydroxy acid). They are exfoliants that gently remove dead cells from the skin’s surface. Acidifying the horny layer improves its homeostasis, integrity and cohesion while strengthening its barrier function. This makes the skin more resistant to harsh external factors. Gluconolactone also has antioxidant properties.
Reconstituted Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF): NMFs are intracellular water-soluble and hygroscopic substances naturally present in the corneocytes, within the epidermis. Reconstituted NMF have a close affinity with water, helping to capture it and guarantee the effective hydration of the upper layers of the epidermis. They include pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (in the form of sodium salt), amino acids, lactates, urea, and a variety of sugars. They respond to the needs of dry, dehydrated, and/or mature skin.
