Exfoliating acids BHAs and AHAs have gained noticeable traction for their ability to renew and revitalise skin, and it’s often used in skin care products. Sometimes we get asked by our customers, so is Fulvic Acid an AHA or BHA?
Although fulvic acid has the word ‘acid’, suggesting an acidic property like AHA or BHA, it actually does not function the same way as these exfoliating acids. The reason fulvic acid has the word acid as part of its name is its chemical structure, the presence of carboxylic acid groups in its molecule, which are organic acids. The role and effects of these organic acids are in fact very different from AHA and BHA. The molecular structure of fulvic acid is complicated, and is actually too complex to synthesis. It is a naturally occurring compound found in earth soil. It is a product of the decomposition of organic matter, particularly plants. Whereas AHA and BHA can both be synthesised and manufactured in a laboratory.
Apart from the difference in origin of fulvic acid and AHAs/BHAs, the nutrient profiles are also very different due to the difference in molecular structures and composition. Fulvic acid contains a variety of nutrients including minerals, antioxidants and electrolytes. In particular, the fulvic acid in our shop at Dr Fulvic is very high in purity and contains 74 minerals and 20 vitamins. The unique structure of fulvic acid makes it an excellent skin rejuvenator, offering benefits that extend beyond the surface-level exfoliation provided by BHAs and AHAs.
Antioxidative Properties: Fulvic acid is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from oxidative damage, providing anti-ageing properties and enhancing your skin’s natural healing process
Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: the molecular structure of fulvic acid allows deeper penetration through the skin therefore improving the overall absorption of the nutrients and other skincare ingredients when applied to the skin alongside with fulvic acid.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Fulvic acid has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm irritated skin, reducing redness.
Hydration: Fulvic acid is often paired with the use of hyaluronic acid, which is actually a product we formulated for optimal skin hydration. Fulvic acid alone can also aid with skin hydration by improving its ability to retain moisture.
Whereas BHAs and AHAs are primarily used for their exfoliating effects, helping remove dead skin cells rather than the skin hydration, nutrient absorption, and anti-oxidation properties that fulvic acid possesses. BHAs and AHAs are usually recommended to be used limitedly too, whereas fulvic acid can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine without the fear of over-exfoliation or irritation.
Fulvic acid is not a BHA or an AHA but stands in a category of its own due to its comprehensive benefits for the skin. Its ability to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate makes it a valuable addition to skincare routines. View our shop to see our full range of products with fulvic acid.