Is there a link between the use of Alpha Hydroxy Acids and higher instances of skin cancer? It’s worth checking out. I recently had a basel cell carcinoma removed from my chest and I THINK it was from doing peels.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s) were derived from the professional peels of plastic surgeons and dermatologists. Products with a lower concentration of AHA’s started showing up in non-professional skin care products in 1989.

The most common acids used are glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid, or any combination thereof.

Acids are beneficial in that they strip the top layer of the skin, revealing the softer, newer skin below. By “peeling” the skin, it helps reduce hyperpigmentation (age spots), lines, wrinkles and skin roughness. If left on too long, however, they will literally “burn” the skin off and cause rash, irritation and redness.

Since you’re peeling the top layer of skin off, it makes sense to use caution regarding exposure to the sun. Studies have shown that your cells will absorb more UV light and cause 20-50% more damage when exposed after the use of AHA’s and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA’s.)

So what does this mean?

• Be careful of the products you are using. Know what’s in them.
• If you buy something with AHA’s or BHA’s, stay out of the sun or be diligent about sun block.
• Steer clear of sunscreens that contain AHA’s or BHA’s.
• If you do any sort of peel at home, follow with sunscreen or better yet, stay out of the sun all together.

I understand how easy it is to apply body lotions with AHA’s all over and then go out after only putting sunscreen on your face. Don’t do this! You’re increasing your UV damage by taking off that layer of skin and going out in the sun.

This is exactly what I did with my chest. I did a peel at home and was not diligent about sun block on my chest. And then here we are, basel cell carcinoma. Of course, I can’t say definitively that this was the cause, but for something so easily preventable, it seems better safe than sorry.

Know yourself and your habits. If you aren’t going to apply sunscreen, don’t buy products with AHA’s. Save your skin!