Photosensitizing
Mixing Honey with Citrus:
This effect is especially pronounced when honey is mixed with other photosensitizing ingredients like lemon or lime juice, a common practice in some DIY skincare recipes. This can cause a severe reaction called phytophotodermatitis, which causes redness and sometimes blistering.
Citric Acid and Photosensitivity:
Citric acid, a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) found in citrus fruits like lemons and limes, can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun.
AHAs work by exfoliating the skin and increasing cell turnover, which exposes newer, more delicate skin cells that lack the natural protection of the outer layer.
Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), like glycolic or lactic acid, exfoliate skin by removing dead cells, but this process reveals new, delicate skin that's much more vulnerable to the sun, leading to increased photosensitivity and a higher risk of sunburn, redness, and pigmentation; therefore, daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is crucial when using AHA products and for about a week after stopping.
How AHAs Cause Photosensitivity:
Increased Cell Turnover:
AHAs work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells on the skin's surface, speeding up exfoliation and revealing newer, fresher skin cells faster.
Delicate New Cells:
These newly exposed cells are less mature and more sensitive, lacking the protective melanin and barrier function of older skin, making them highly susceptible to UV damage.
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Vinegar, especially Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV), contains natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like malic acid, offering gentle exfoliation, pH balancing, and brightening for skin and hair by removing dead cells, unclogging pores, and restoring radiance, often used diluted as a toner or cleanser, but requires caution as it can irritate sensitive or damaged skin. While ACV provides mild AHA benefits, dedicated AHAs like glycolic acid offer stronger exfoliation, but ACV's acidic nature helps maintain skin's crucial acid mantle.
How it works (for skin)
Gentle Exfoliation:
AHAs, particularly malic acid in ACV, help shed dead skin cells, leading to smoother, brighter skin.
pH Balance:
Its low pH helps reset skin's natural acidity, supporting the skin's protective barrier.
Antimicrobial:
Helps fight acne-causing bacteria, reducing breakouts and blackheads.
Brightening:
Can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone over time.
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Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid exfoliate hair follicles by dissolving dead skin, product buildup, and oil, clearing the path for healthier hair growth, improving scalp texture, reducing flakes, and boosting shine, often used in shampoos or serums as a gentle chemical exfoliant for a cleaner, revitalized scalp environment.
How AHAs Work on Hair Follicles
Chemical Exfoliation:
AHAs dissolve the "glue" holding dead skin cells and debris, allowing them to shed naturally, much like they do for facial skin.
Unclogging Follicles:
By removing buildup, AHAs prevent clogged pores and hair follicles, creating a better environment for hair to grow.
Increased Cell Turnover:
They promote skin renewal, leading to a healthier scalp.
Improved Nutrient Flow:
Clearing blockages helps blood vessels deliver more nutrients to the hair strands, supporting growth.
Benefits for Scalp & Hair
Reduced Buildup: Clears away excess oil, flakes, and product residue.
Smoother, Shinier Hair: Removes dull surface cells, revealing healthier hair.
Addresses Flakes & Dandruff: Helps control flakiness by removing dead skin.
Hydration: Some AHAs, like lactic acid, also help lock in moisture.