I noticed my skin beginning to change when I hit 50. So I took action that has made a visible difference when I look in the mirror. What products am I using now, that I didn’t use in my younger days?

You might be surprised when I tell you…I’m using acid.

Hyaluronic Acid (The ‘Plumper’)

A couple of years ago, I wrote a blog on the advantages of using products containing hyaluronic acid. (Click here to view.)

What is it? Hyaluronic Acid (aka hyaluranon) is a naturally-occurring substance produced in the human body. It acts to cushion and lubricate joints, nerves, hair, skin, and eyes.

How it works? HA draws water to the skin and prevents moisture loss. (Imagine a wrinkled raisin dropped in water, after a few minutes, the raisin absorbs the water and plumps up.)

As we age, our bodies begin to produce less and less HA.

Benefits? HA is a popular ingredient in serums and creams. Applied topically, it increases hydration and improves elasticity. Every skin type can use it. Even oily skin can benefit.  HA is a natural way to boost skin’s moisture.

“By the time we reach 50 years of age, our bodies are producing about 50% less hyaluronic acid as they did in youth…This decline is a major contributing factor to… wrinkled, sagging skin.” … Dr. Nicholas Perricone, MD

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (The ‘Exfoliator’)

What it is? Alpha hydroxy acid (or AHA) originates naturally from milk and fruit sugars. The most common AHAs are lactic acid and glycolic acid.

How it works? Products containing AHAs essentially remove the “glue” from the upper layer of skin that holds onto old, dead skin cells.

Benefits?  The main benefit of AHA is its ability to exfoliate the skin. By removing that top layer of dead cells, AHA smooths the skin and reduces the look of wrinkles.  With an added benefit–products are more easily absorbed and foundation glides on like a dream.

Don’t let the word acid scare you. Hyaluronic Acid and Alpha Hydroxy Acid might just become two of  your most valuable allies when it comes to helping regain that fresh, rejuvenated look.

FYI:  If you are interested in learning more about products containing hyaluronic acid or alpha hydroxy acid, contact my co-author, Skin Specialist Janna Beatty at www.makeovers4u.com. I use her Intense Moisture Complex (containing hyaluronic acid) daily  and her Cell Lift (containing alpha hydroxy acid) weekly.