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Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

AHAs, Fruit Acids

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Meta Information

ID:ahas
Name:Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

  • AHAs
  • Fruit Acids

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
15
High Cost:
80
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Over-the-counter creams, lotions, and serums; not covered by insurance.

Summary

Alpha Hydroxy Acids are a class of chemical compounds that act as exfoliants on the skin's surface. By dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, they promote cellular turnover, which can stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of photoaging. From a healthspan perspective, maintaining the integrity and function of the skin barrier is a key aspect of overall health, protecting against environmental insults.

Purpose

Topical exfoliants that improve skin texture and collagen synthesis.

Card Summary

A class of topical exfoliants that improve skin texture, hydration, and collagen synthesis, reducing visible signs of photoaging.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

  • glycolic-acid
  • lactic-acid
  • citric-acid
  • mandelic-acid
  • malic-acid

Impact

Score:
4.2
Justification:
Effective for skin health and photoaging, but limited to a single organ system.

Evidence

Grade:
A
Score:
9
Justification:
Extensive human RCTs and decades of clinical use for dermatological applications.

Safety

Score:
3.5
Justification:
Generally safe but can cause skin irritation, redness, and increased sun sensitivity.

Flags

  • Significantly increases photosensitivity; daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use is essential.
  • Can cause irritation, redness, and peeling, especially at higher concentrations or upon initial use.
  • Risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones if significant irritation occurs.
  • Use with caution when combining with other potent actives like retinoids or vitamin C.

Verdict

A well-evidenced topical intervention for improving skin health and appearance.

Created

2026-04-27T13:31:57.496810Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:
none
Scope:
  • local

Indication

Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Alpha Hydroxy Acids are a class of chemical compounds that act as exfoliants on the skin's surface. By dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, they promote cellular turnover, which can stimulate...

Typical Protocol

  • Daily application of 5-10% concentration lotions or creams for exfoliation and collagen synthesis.
  • Periodic chemical peels with concentrations of 20-70% performed by a qualified professional.