What are Alpha-Hydroxy Fruit Acids?

Alpha-Hydroxy Fruit Acids: Alpha hydroxy acids are derived from fruit and milk sugars. The most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids are glycolic acid and lactic acid because they have a special ability to penetrate the skin.
The following are the 5 major types of alpha hydroxy acids found in skin-care products and their sources:

* glycolic acid - sugar cane
* lactic acid - milk
* malic acid - apples and pears
* citric acid - oranges and lemons
* tartaric acid - grapes

Alpha hydroxy acids work mainly as an exfoliant. They cause the cells of the epidermis to become "unglued" allowing the dead skin cells to slough off, making room for regrowth of new skin. Alpha hydroxy acids may even stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Alpha hydroxy acids are reported to improve wrinkling, roughness, and mottled pigmentation of photodamaged skin after months of daily application.