Ingredient Spotlight: Polyhydroxy Acids (PHA's)

Imagine a skincare ingredient that exfoliates without irritation—sounds too good to be true, right? Meet polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), the gentle giants of the exfoliation world.

Anti-ageingGuide to Skincare Ingredients
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Andrea Patel Dermatology Nurse Practitioner & Director Read Andrea’s post
4 Minutes read

What are P.H.A.s?

Polyhydroxy Acids or PHA’s are the next generation of alpha hydroxy acids.

PHA’s are similar to AHA’s in that they perform the same role of exfoliation, reducing fine lines & wrinkles, and improving skin tone & texture.

Unlike AHA’s, PHA’s are gentler on skin causing less irritation so are ideal for eczema, rosacea skin and skin prone to inflammation.

Their potent antioxidant properties protect skin from free radical and UV damage and help strengthen skin barrier function.

They are also powerful humectants, helping to ensure healthy hydration levels within skin.

This reduced irritation, coupled with natural antioxidant properties, gives PHA’s a gentle, competitive edge over other anti-ageing exfoliating ingredients.

"They are a fantastic option for dry/sensitive skin conditions to restore skins barrier whilst giving hydration and exfoliation"

In which skincare products can PHA be found?

Neostrata PHA Facial Cleanser
Free Sample
Special Price £29.00 Regular Price £32.00
9% OFF

- A gentle gel facial wash formulated with a gentle PHA exfoliant effectively removes makeup and impurities without irritation

- Clinically shown to help reduce the look of blotchiness and increase brightness*

- Ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive and reactive skin

 

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reviews/quote

NeoStrata Restore PHA Facial Cleanser - Most amazing person gentle cleanser that gives my skin nice glow without over stripping the skin.

Verified Customer

NeoStrata Ultra Moisturising Face Cream
Free Sample
Special Price £51.00 Regular Price £57.00
11% OFF

- Emollient cream
- Gently exfoliates and moisturises the skin
- Contains 10% PHA (gluconolactone)
- Suitable for sensitive skin, rosacea, and first-time AHA users.

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reviews/quote

NeoStrata Restore Ultra Moisturising Face Cream keeps my skin supple and well moisturised. It’s perfect for my rosacea as it doesn’t irritate it.

Verified Customer

NeoStrata Bionic Face Cream
Free Sample
Special Price £51.00 Regular Price £57.00
11% OFF

- A super rich, balm-like soothing emollient for the face

- Helps to revitalise the look of stressed skin and improve texture, while improving your skin's texture

- Designed for dry, sensitive skin

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reviews/quote

NeoStrata Bionic Face Cream - Fabulous cream for reactive skin. I have roseaca and this keeps my inflammation really calm. I also have itchy skin patches due to menopause which this cream instantly relieves. I wouldn’t be without it.

Verified Customer

Daytime Protection Cream
Free Sample
Special Price £51.00 Regular Price £57.00
11% OFF

- Oil-free, lightweight antioxidant moisturiser
- Provides broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sun protection
- Contains 8% Gluconolactone, 2% Lactobionic Acid, and Vitamin E
- Suitable for all skin types

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reviews/quote

NeoStrata Restore Daytime Protection Cream SPF23 - After developing seborrheic dermatitis I completely changed the facial products I was using. Chose Neostrata as my daytime moisturiser and the results have been amazing. You only need a pea size amount so the tube will last a while. My face feels much smoother. Would definitely recommend!

Verified Customer

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