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Everything you need to know about fruit acids and AHAs in cosmetics

Discover the benefits of fruit acids in our facial treatments: exfoliation, hydration, anti-aging and care for smooth, radiant and renewed skin.

Fruit acids, also known as hydroxy acids, have become essential ingredients in the world of facial care. Known for their exfoliating and regenerative properties, these active ingredients offer numerous benefits to improve the appearance and health of the skin. Let's discover together the secrets of these star ingredients of modern cosmetics.


What to remember about the benefits of fruit acids

  • There are3 different families of fruit acids: AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs.

  • Each of these families has specific properties and therefore uses.

  • and the visible signs of skin aging.

  • Fruit acids are generally well tolerated, but certain precautions should be taken when using them.

What are hydroxy acids?

These are molecules found in nature, particularly in various fruits (hence the name fruit acid) or in other products such as milk. Although often synthesized in laboratories for cosmetic use, they take their name from their natural sources: glycolic acid from sugar cane, malic acid from apples, or citric acid from citrus fruits.

In chemistry, the term acid refers to a specific group in the structure of a molecule. It is therefore not a generic term that would refer to products capable of making holes in various materials! Cosmetic acids are characterized by different chemical structures, which allows them to be classified into three main categories:

  • AHAs stand for Alpha Hydroxy Acids. The best known are glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and malic acid.

  • BHAs for Beta Hydroxy Acids.Skincare manufacturers primarily use salicylic acid.

  • PHAs for Poly Hydroxy Acidssuch as gluconolactone and lactobionic acid.

Fruit acids in cosmetics: what for?

Hydroxy acids are true allies for the beauty and health of the skin. Their multiple properties make them popular ingredients in many beauty products.

Exfoliating properties

All these acids disrupt the bonds between skin cells,which helps eliminate dead cells. This process refines skin texture, tightens pores, and revives the complexion's radiance.

For a gentle peel suitable for sensitive skin, PHAs exfoliate and moisturize the skin while reducing irritation. It's an ideal choice for reactive and delicate skin.

A hydration aid

AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid retain water in the skin, leaving it hydrated and plumped.

This is reminiscent of the exceptional properties of another acid,hyaluronic acid, which, although not a fruit acid, can retain up to 1000 times its weight in water.

An anti-aging action

By boosting the production of collagen and elastin, fruit acids (especially AHAs)stimulate cell renewal, help reduce the depth of wrinkles, and improve skin firmness.

Positive effects on acne

Salicylic acid (BHA) is particularly effective for treating blemishes thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to penetrate pores.

Indeed, it is fat-soluble (it dissolves in fatty substances like sebum), which makes it effective for treating oily or acne-prone skin.

Are AHAs and fruit acids dangerous for the skin?

Although highly effective, fruit acids sometimes raise safety concerns. However, when used correctly, these active ingredients are safe for most skin types. However, there are a few precautions to consider:

  • A risk of photosensitization. AHAs can increase the skin's sensitivity to UV rays. It is therefore crucial to apply daily sun protection when using these products.

  • Possible irritation.At high concentrations, acids can cause redness or irritation, especially on sensitive skin.

  • Caution when using together.Skin experts recommend not mixing several products containing acids or retinol to prevent over-exfoliation.

  • The right season to use them. It is best to limit intensive acid use during the summer, when sun exposure is greatest.

How FILORGA uses fruit acids in its cosmetic products

Safety and effectiveness above all

FILORGA Laboratories have developed expertise in the use of fruit acids. To ensure effective and safe daily products, we integrate these active ingredients into our formulas while respecting several essential criteria:

  • Optimal concentration. We adjust the concentration of the acids to ensure their effectiveness while preserving skin tolerance.

  • Adapted pH. The pH of our formulas is carefully balanced to optimize the action of the acids without harming the integrity of the skin barrier.

  • Specific application methods. Each of our products is designed with a precise usage protocol (duration of application, rinsing or not) to maximize its benefits.

SLEEP & PEEL 4.5: the night micro-peel

A night cream that activates cell renewal for a new skin effect upon waking. Inspired by professional peels,SLEEP & PEEL 4.5: the night micro-peel PEEL 4.5 combines the benefits of hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA) at a dose of 4.5% with soothing brown algae, providing a gentle resurfacing effect. For smoother skin, a refined skin texture, and a more radiant complexion.


SLEEP & PEEL 4.5 uses AHA and BHA fruit acids

OXYGEN-PEEL: the reoxygenating cocktail

OXYGEN-PEEL is an exfoliating facial lotion enriched with hyaluronic acid. Its complex of 6 acids in a 6% concentration gently purifies the skin,reducing the appearance of wrinkles and pores for optimal smoothing. This formula is complemented by bioactive agents that boost cellular oxygenation, revealing a fresh and radiant complexion.

OXYGEN-PEEL incorporates a complex of 6 different fruit acids

Important clarification: these products can be used in preparation for a professional facial peel, illustrating the link between aesthetic medicine and the advanced cosmetic solutions of FILORGA Laboratories.