In recent years, acne issues have become a concern for many people, affecting both men and women. The fourth-generation A acid, Aklief, has officially launched in Hong Kong, bringing new hope and experiences for acne treatment.
A acid is a common medication for treating acne, categorized into four generations based on different levels. The first generation is Tretinoin, the second is Etretinate/Acitretin, the third is Adapalene, and the latest fourth generation is Trifarotene. Compared to earlier generations, the concentration of the fourth generation is only 0.005%, which means it has a lower concentration yet is effective in combating acne issues.
The primary principle behind using A acid is quite simple. It helps improve keratin metabolism, prevents pore blockage, and thereby reduces the formation of acne. A acid also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, allowing it to rapidly alleviate redness and swelling in cases of severe inflammation. Additionally, it helps to lighten melanin, improve skin tone, and make acne scars less apparent.
Many people believe that using A acid dries out the skin, but this is not the case. Studies indicate that A acid can actually enhance the skin’s moisture retention ability by increasing the levels of Aquaporin-3 and Peptidyl Arginine Deiminase-1 in the skin. This effect means that while combating acne, the skin’s hydration can also be better maintained.
More importantly, the fourth-generation A acid specifically targets certain receptors in the skin—RAR-γ—making its effectiveness more pronounced while significantly reducing side effects. Many users may initially experience slight redness, itching, or peeling, but typically the skin will become healthy and radiant after gradually adjusting.
In addition to being suitable for the face, the fourth-generation A acid has also shown good results in treating back acne. The number of sebaceous glands on the back is greater than that on the face, making it more prone to acne problems. Although there have been fewer clinical studies on the use of A acid for the back in the past, Aklief is the only product that has been clinically studied specifically for back acne.
However, it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women avoid using A acid products. If accidentally exposed, there is usually no need for excessive concern, as the likelihood of topical medications entering the body is extremely low, and these products undergo rigorous safety testing.
Effects from using the fourth-generation A acid can usually be observed within two to four weeks, which is faster than other forms of A acid or retinol. However, to better condition the skin, it is advisable to use appropriate moisturizing products to avoid irritation caused by excessive dryness.
In summary, the launch of the fourth-generation A acid Aklief not only provides a milder and more effective option for acne sufferers but also brings good news to those pursuing beautiful skin.