No, vitamin C is not an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid).
While both vitamin C and AHAs are popular skincare ingredients known for their beneficial effects, they are distinct chemical compounds with different structures and mechanisms of action.
Here's a breakdown to clarify the differences:
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Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage, brightens the complexion, and stimulates collagen production. It is an acid, specifically ascorbic acid, but it's not classified as an AHA. Vitamin C typically has a pH between 2-3.
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AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): AHAs are a group of acids derived from natural substances like sugar cane (glycolic acid), milk (lactic acid), and fruits (malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid). They work primarily by exfoliating the skin's surface, promoting cell turnover, and improving skin texture. AHAs typically have a pH between 3-4.
Key Differences Summarized:
| Feature | Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) | AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Antioxidant, Brightening, Collagen Boost | Exfoliation, Skin Texture Improvement |
| Chemical Structure | Ascorbic Acid | Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, etc. |
| pH | Approximately 2-3 | Approximately 3-4 |
In Conclusion:
Vitamin C and AHAs are different types of acids with distinct benefits for the skin. Vitamin C functions primarily as an antioxidant, while AHAs are primarily exfoliants. Therefore, vitamin C is not an AHA.
