title: Understanding alpha-hydroxy acids.
abstract: This self-study activity has been developed for nurses, estheticians, and other health care professionals whose patients use alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) products. Skin anatomy and physiology are reviewed and information is presented on the mechanisms of action of AHAs. Cosmetic and therapeutic benefits of AHA-containing products are detailed. Factors that influence the safety and effectiveness of AHA products are explored, including concentration, pH, and the amount of free acid present. A method is detailed for applying AHA-containing chemexfoliating agents, and guidelines are offered for taking a patient history, post-procedure skin care, and applying subsequent peels.
authors.affiliation: Education Design, Inc., Denver, CO, USA.
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Kneedler
authors.forename: S S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Sky
authors.forename: L R
authors.initials: LR
authors.lastname: Sexton
mesh_terms: D002615:Chemexfoliation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D006880:Hydroxy Acids / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects*; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D006880:Hydroxy Acids