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Along with salicylic acid, this acid occupies the first position in cosmetic formulas aimed at combating acne and other problems of oily skin. We will tell you why LHA deserved such honor, and we will name five effective means based on it.
What is lipohydroxy acid
Lipohydroxy acid (LHA) is the closest relative of salicylic acid, or rather, its derivative. It is also called liposalicylic acid, and this definition most accurately conveys the essence of this chemical compound.
LHA differs from salicylic acid in its fat-soluble component
In fact, this is the same salicylic acid, but with a lipophilic (fat-soluble) chain. It is the prefix “lipo” that gives this acid its distinctive properties and features, thanks to which it has become no less popular cosmetic ingredient than its “relative”.
Useful Properties
Lipohydroxy acid, as well as salicylic acid, is valued as an excellent keratolytic, stimulating the process of cell exfoliation and skin renewal. Respected for its anti-inflammatory properties. Both acids:
destroy protein bonds between the cells of the stratum corneum;
able to penetrate the lipids of the stratum corneum;
inhibit the activity of bacteria.
However, LHA makes small but fundamental changes to this scenario.
slower penetrates the skin, as its molecules are larger;
gradually loosens the lipid layer;
selectively works with cells that are already at the initial stage of natural destruction.
Eventually LHA acts more gently than salicylic, providing the effect of micro-exfoliation without the risk of irritation, redness and discomfort. In balanced cosmetic formulas appear both acids for a pronounced effect of skin renewal, which results in:
alignment of relief and tone;
reduction of greasiness;
reduction of inflammatory elements;
lightening post-acne pigment spots.
Application in cosmetics
It is obvious that LHA shows all its best qualities in cosmetic formulas for oily and problematic skin, which is distinguished by:
thickened stratum corneum;
increased production of sebum;
tendency to form comedones and inflammatory elements.
However, lipohydroxy acid is quite reasonably used in anti-aging formulas, because over the years, the process of cell renewal slows down. Hence the uneven relief and dull color, often characterizing the skin after 40.
An Overview of Lipohydroxy Acid Products
Corrective
Corrective creams with lipohydroxy acid
| Name | Action | Composition |
| Corrective care against imperfections “Normaderm 24h moisturizing”, Vichy | Successfully corrects the imperfections of problem skin and post-acne phenomena, reduces pores and greasy shine. | salicylic acid, lipohydroxy acid (LHA), Airlicium – a component consisting of air and 1% silicon |
| Skin Corrector, Micro-Blur Skin Perfector, Kiehl’s | Instantly evens out skin texture and reduces the visibility of pores, and over time reduces imperfections and brightens post-acne spots. | lipohydroxy acid, extracts of lentils and eperua tree bark, silicones |
| Correcting cream-gel Effaclar Duo (+) , La Roche-Posay | Moisturizes, mattifies and actively fights the imperfections of problem skin, preventing post-acne and blockage of pores. | LHA, niacinamide, linoleic acid, ceramide prokerade |
Anti-aging
Anti-aging products with lipohydroxy acid
| Name | Action | Composition |
| Cream-gel for problem skin with signs of aging Normaderm Anti-Age, Vichy | Tightens pores, smoothes wrinkles, evens out skin tone thanks to its active renewing action. | LHA, glycolic acid, vitamin C |
| Serum Revitalift Laser X3, L’Oréal Paris | Smoothes wrinkles, tightens pores, transforms skin texture, strengthens it by activating collagen production | proxylan, fragmented hyaluronic acid, LHA |