These are called "hydroxy" acids and only salicylic in the list is beta hydroxy acid. Beta hydroxy acids are used particularly for acne, to prevent the formation of comedones (plugs) in the pores. The rest are alpha hydroxy acids. The alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are fruit acids found in plants that remove dead and damaged surface cells through exfoliation, making skin appear smoother and feel softer. They may help the appearance of fine lines. Other types of alpha hydroxy acids include glycolic acid, lactic acid, madelic and malic acid. I'll touch on a few of these acids.
The only reason this is important is that Salicylic or "Sal Acid" is more compatible with oily skin and thus more effective for those with acne. Generally, if you are using a retinoid (tretinoin, Retin A, retinol, Renova, etc.) 3-7 times a week, you don't benefit much from adding these. The one exception would be super cloggy, oily, acne prone skin. Then use the retinoid at night and the sal acid in the morning.
See my reviews on products I recommend that contain Salicylic acid
here
.
Glycolic Acid
:
One good reason to use glycolic acids is price point! Especially for younger patients (teens, 20s, 30s) who are using sunscreen regularly, don't have much sun damage, and have acne and oilier skin. When using a good quality retinoid daily, there's really not much need for a glycolic.
See my reviews on products I recommend that contain glycolic acid here.
For more skin care ingredient definitions, see here.
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