[imagesource: Vera Livchak / Getty Images]

You’ve probably heard that one of the best ways to get glowing, radiant skin is with regular exfoliation.

While the familiar acids in many chemical exfoliation treatments are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), they can be too harsh for some people.

This is especially true if you have sensitive skin prone to rosacea or eczema.

Luckily, there’s a third chemical exfoliator making a buzz in the skincare scene that’s answering clear-skin prayers. Say hello to polyhydroxy acids (PHAs).

Referred to as the less irritating cousin of AHAs and BHAs by the skin-savvy among us, PHAs differ from their alpha- and beta-family members in that their molecules are slightly smaller.

This means that they don’t penetrate the skin as much, making them a far gentler exfoliant.

In other words, this new ‘it’ acid is a saving grace for sensitive skin looking for the exfoliating benefits of hydroxy acids without the side effects.

PHAs pretty much remove dead, dull-looking cells to improve skin texture by revealing healthy cells and reducing hyperpigmentation in the process. Another thing that makes PHAs ‘buzz-worthy’ is that these hydroxy acids effectively fight glycation.

This process occurs when digested sugar permanently attaches to the collagen in your skin, weakening it and lowering elastin levels.

And while PHAs are protecting your skin’s ability to bounce back, these molecules are also teaming up with your other skincare ingredients to help them penetrate deeper and work more effectively.

They’re also wonderful moisturisers, hydrating the skin by supporting the skin’s barrier function and locking in moisture.

On top of that, they reduce fine lines and wrinkles, undo and prevent UV damage, kick pollution-induced free radical damage to the curb, and put you on the receiving end of the “wow, you look so fresh and rested” compliments.

Found in cleansers, toners, and moisturisers, PHAs appear on ingredient labels in all sorts of weird and wonderful ways.

Just look for these ingredients on the label to make sure you’re getting a PHA-containing product that delivers extra moisture-locking: gluconolactone, lactobionic acid, and galactos.

A shortcut can be found via the Skin Renewal online skin shop, where you’ll get a range of the best of the best in PHA-boosted products.

For those who prefer an extra layer of peace of mind, Skin Renewal‘s highly-qualified medical aesthetics doctors are on hand to offer advice on what will work best for your skin.