Lipo-hydroxy acid
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Exfoliant, astringent
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Serums, creams, gels, chemical peels
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LIPO-HYDROXY ACID?
Lipo-hydroxy acid has been shown to be effective in the management of acne vulgaris. It has also been used in chemical peels owing to its ability to selectively destroy stratum corneum cellular interactions. When used as a cleansing gel in combination, it has been shown to decrease lipogenesis and inflammation.
WHAT IS LIPO-HYDROXY ACID?
Lipo-hydroxy acid is a lipophilic derivative of salicylic acid. As a fat-dissolving acid, it weakens bonds of stratum corneum cells, thus clarifying its astringent and exfoliant properties.
IS LIPO-HYDROXY ACID SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Lipo-hydroxy acid is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available data.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There is limited data on contraindications for the topical use of lipo-hydroxy acid. However, patients with sensitivity to exfoliants or contact dermatitis should exercise caution if considering use.
Sources:
Araviiskaia E, Dréno B. The role of topical dermocosmetics in acne vulgaris. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2016;30(6):926-935. doi:10.1111/jdv.13579
Bissonnette R, Bolduc C, Seité S, et al. Randomized study comparing the efficacy and tolerance of a lipophillic hydroxy acid derivative of salicylic acid and 5% benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of facial acne vulgaris. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2009;8(1):19-23. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2165.2009.00418.x
Fischer TC, Perosino E, Poli F, Viera MS, Dreno B; Cosmetic Dermatology European Expert Group. Chemical peels in aesthetic dermatology: an update 2009. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2010;24(3):281-292. doi:10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03409.x
Towersey L, Correia P, Fajgenbaum Feiges M, et al. Assessment of the Benefit of a Deep Cleansing Gel Containing Salicylic Acid 2%, Zinc Gluconate 0.2% and Lipohydroxy Acids 0.05% in Patients with Mild to Moderate Truncal Acne: Results from an Exploratory Study. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2023;16:119-123. Published 2023 Jan 18. doi:10.2147/CCID.S394123
