The hydroxy acids: Where have we been and what's new?

• Published in: Dermatological reviews 2023-12, Vol.4 (6), p.260-267
• Main Authors: Egli, Caitlin, Min, Mildred, Afzal, Nasima, Sivamani, Raja K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: glycolic acid; hydroxy acids; salicylic acid
• ISSN: 2637-7489; 2637-7489
• DOI: 10.1002/der2.217

Background Hydroxy Acids (HAs) have been used for the treatment of a variety of skin conditions over the past several decades. The use of HAs in both pharmaceutical and cosmetic products has increased dramatically, and recent studies have been undertaken to better understand their applications and therapeutic benefits. Objective The objective of this review is to study the uses of HAs and the emerging ingredients in the area of skin care. Relevant studies were reviewed and categorized by their molecular structure into alpha HAs (AHAs) beta HAs (BHAs) and poly HAs (PHAs). Methods A literature search on the use of HAs was performed and articles for review were selected from more recent dermatological studies published from 2018 to 2023. Older research was compared to the results of newer studies to identify the more recent developments in the application of HAs in skin care. Results The new research was concentrated in the area of new uses of the HAs, validating therapeutic concentrations and protocols, and combining different HAs and other chemicals to improve therapeutic outcomes for a variety of skin conditions and diseases. Conclusion The articles included for review demonstrate the continuing therapeutic relevance and developments in the application of HAs in skin care.