Acids Explained: What They Are and How They Transform Your Skin

expert advice

Acids Explained: What They Are and How They Transform Your Skin

46 days ago By Omorovicza

Acids are among the most effective actives in skincare, valued for their ability to refine texture, improve clarity and enhance radiance. When incorporated thoughtfully, acids such as AHAs, BHA and PHAs help to smooth the complexion, even tone and support the skin’s natural renewal process.

Learn more about how these acids work, the different types used in skincare and how to integrate them into your ritual. We also introduce Acid Milk, Omorovicza’s new resurfacing tonic clinically proven to deliver remarkable radiance with 0% irritation recorded.

What Do Acids Do in Skincare?

Acids exfoliate by dissolving the bonds between dead surface cells, helping to decongest pores, smooth texture and reveal a brighter, more even-looking complexion. Many also support hydration and radiance, helping the skin appear smoother, clearer and more luminous.

What Are the Different Types of Acids in Skincare?

The three primary categories of exfoliating acids are Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) and Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHAs). Each category offers distinct benefits and suits different skin concerns, from refining texture to boosting hydration or reducing congestion. In addition to exfoliating acids, skincare also uses replenishing or hydrating acids that help strengthen the skin barrier and maintain moisture. These are some types of acids commonly used in skincare:

Glycolic Acid (AHA)

Helps to refine skin texture by exfoliating the surface, supporting renewal and promoting a smoother, brighter complexion.

Lactic Acid (AHA)

Provides gentle resurfacing while attracting water to the skin, helping to soften, hydrate and enhance luminosity.

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Oil-soluble and able to penetrate pores, helping to clear congestion, reduce excess sebum and minimise the appearance of blemishes.

Azelaic Acid (Dicarboxylic Acid)

Helps to calm and clarify by reducing visible redness, evening tone and diminishing pigmentation for a more even appearance.

Gluconolactone (PHA)

Offers gentle exfoliation suitable for sensitive skin while helping to hydrate and provide antioxidant support.

Lactobionic Acid (PHA)

A mild resurfacing acid that helps to smooth texture, strengthen the skin barrier and enhance moisture retention.

Galactose (PHA)

Helps to exfoliate lightly while supporting hydration and comfort, making it particularly suitable for sensitised or reactive skin.

Hyaluronic Acid (Humectant Acid)

A powerful moisture-binding molecule that attracts and retains water, helping to plump the complexion and support long-lasting hydration.

Mandelic Acid (AHA)

A larger-molecule AHA that provides slower, more uniform exfoliation, ideal for those seeking a mild resurfacing effect with reduced sensitivity.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

A brightening, antioxidant-rich acid that helps to protect against environmental stressors, support collagen production and enhance overall radiance.

What Are AHAs?

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are water-soluble exfoliating acids often derived from natural sugars. Of the seven AHAs, Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid are most commonly used in skincare. These acids support the skin’s natural renewal process by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. This helps to refine texture, smooth the complexion and reduce the appearance of pigmentation, while also attracting water molecules to promote hydration and radiance.

What Are PHAs?

Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHAs) offer a gentle alternative to AHAs due to their larger molecular size, making them particularly suitable for sensitive skin. PHAs exfoliate effectively while helping to hydrate and strengthen the skin. They are also the only exfoliating acids that do not increase vulnerability to UV damage, making them a beneficial option for those seeking mild yet efficient resurfacing.

What Is BHA?

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) refers solely to Salicylic Acid. Unlike AHAs and PHAs, Salicylic Acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate inside pores to remove excess sebum and impurities. This makes it a powerful ingredient for those experiencing congestion or blemishes.

NEW Acid Milk

A resurfacing tonic for radiant skin.

Acid Milk is a leave-on resurfacing tonic created to reveal radiant, resilient and even skin after one use. Clinically proven to increase radiance by 71% after one use with 0% irritation recorded.

At the heart of Acid Milk is an expertly crafted, precise blend of four exfoliating acids:

Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid for resurfacing and brightness
Salicylic Acid to help unclog pores
Azelaic Acid to refine tone and smooth texture

To balance this potency, Acid Milk combines calming and nourishing actives including Coastal Microalgae, Ceramides and Oat Kernel Oil, which help to soothe, comfort and support the skin barrier.

How to Use Acid Milk

Applied with a cotton pad or fingertips, Acid Milk integrates seamlessly into the Omorovicza ritual. Suitable for all skin types, it can be used up to three times weekly.