Introduction

Capryloyl Salicylic acid, also known as Lipohydroxy Acid (LHA) is an organic derivative of Salicylic Acid. Recently developed, LHA has a unique lipophilic structure and action compared to other hydroxy acids. Studies prove that LHA is an effective antiaging hydroxy acid with high skin tolerability and fewer side effects.

Because LHA is a fat soluble hydroxy acid it is useful for people with oily skin and commonly used for the treatment of acne^​1​. Being fat soluble also means that LHA is better able to penetrate the skin barrier and provide deeper peeling action.

Benefits for Your Skin

“As an anti-aging ingredient, LHA use has been shown to result in dermal thickening, with increases in glycosaminoglycan, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin levels.”

The skincare benefits provided by LHA treatment are well established and well supported by professional scientific research. LHA offers the following skincare benefits:

1. Antimicrobial Action

The antibacterial action of salicylic acid has been known for many decades. Studies show that LHA also has anti-inflammatory, anti-comedogenic and antibacterial effects and these partly explain the success in acne treatment^​2​.

2. Peeling Agent

LHA as a anti-aging facial chemical peeling agent provides high tolerability, safety and efficacy for treatment that is slightly better than glycolic acid^​3​. It was found to reduce facial pigmentation and fine lines/wrinkles^​2​.

3. Sensitive Skin and Rosacea

LHA is as effective as AHAs in the treatment of many skin conditions but is better tolerated by the skin^​3​ than other hydroxy acids. Therefore it is more compatible with sensitive skin types than AHAs as they are more skin irritating.

4. Hyperpigmentation Treatment

With sustained treatment by LHA, lightening and even complete fading of hyperpigmentation can be achieved^​3​.

5. Anti-aging, Photoaging Treatment

Antiaging benefits to photoaged skin of reduced wrinkles of reduced wrinkles and fine lines, the skin can be achieved with the daily application of LHA^​2,4​. This can result in increase in dermal thickness and firmness that persists after application ceases. As well as providing antiaging benefits, LHA is also photoprotective^​4​. It can provide UV protection for the skin and UV radiation.

6. Acne and Acne Scar Treatment

LHA is emerging as a product of choice for treatment of acne and acne scars^​2,5​. Due to its unique lipophilic nature, LHA has strong exfoliating and comedolytic properties making it a good choice for acne treatment.

Discussion

“Presence of LHA 1% improves smoothness and firmness of the skin. The appearance in terms of clearness and healthy complexion is also improved.”^​6​

Because of its unique structure and lipophilic nature, LHA has many antiaging skin and acne treating benefits coupled with mild action. LHA treatment can result in dermal thickening, with increases in glycosaminoglycan, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin levels.

References