FSS Apple AHA’s AQ

(AQUEOUS – Water Soluble)

Scarlet O’Hara, Rambo, Malinda, Red Baron, Jonathan and Golden Earl. At first glance, this looks like a list of famous and not-so-famous names. Actually, believe it or not, these are the names of some cultivated apple varieties. Most are familiar with common supermarket cultivars such as Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Fiji, and McIntosh. Over the years, more and more people are choosing to adopt healthier lifestyles by including apples as part of their diets, thus supporting the old adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The numerous apple varieties are as seem­ingly endless as their uses. The growing popularity of apples has lead to its usage outside of the food industry. Apples are now utilized in cancer prevention research and in cosmetic and personal care applications. The sig­nificance of apples in personal care products has been attributed to the presence of an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), malic acid, which promotes the appearance of healthy and smoother feeling skin.

Malic acid, an acid present in apples and pears, was first isolated from apple juice in 1785. Malic acid contributes to the sourness of green apples and is often used as a food additive to impart a sour taste. Glycolic acid, the smallest AHA molecule, is isolated from sugar cane and sugar beets and is most often used in chemical peels. Lactic acid, a hygroscopic AHA, also known as milk acid is primarily found in sour milk products. Citric acid, a natural preservative, is found in a variety of fruits, most notably citrus, with lemons and limes having the highest concentrations.

AHA’s are being used more frequently in cosmetic formulations in order to exfoliate the skin and reduce signs of sun damage and aging. The idea of using AHA technology was inspired by chemical peel treatments used by dermatologists to treat various skin conditions. AHA usage has become increasingly popular as a result of their immediate perceived effects as well as their ease of use in aqueous systems while also improving the skin’s texture and minimizing the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles to create an overall healthy, revitalized aesthetic.

The mechanism of action of AHA’s is to bind to cell adhesion molecules and reduce the calcium ion concentra­tion thus disrupting cellular adhesion. This results in the desquamation (shedding) of the outermost layer of skin. The reduction of calcium ion levels also promotes cell growth and retardation of cellular differentiation therefore giving rise to younger-looking skin. FSS Apple AHA’s AQ are primarily recommended for exfoliation and cellular renewal applications. FSS Apple AHA’s AQ containing apple extracts, when blended with malic, glycolic, lactic, and citric acids provide a potent combination for the proper exfoliation of dead skin cells, to create a noticeable improvement in the skin’s texture and appearance. FSS Apple AHA’s AQ is all natural and NPA compliant.

Contains:

Malic Acid
 
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
 
Glycolic Acid
 
Lactic Acid
 
Citric Acid

Our products are for cosmetic and personal care formulations only; External Use Only. We recommend working with a chemist or a formulator if you’re not advanced in formulating.

Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure, or prevent disease.