The dos and don'ts of using AHAs on your body.

AHAs — alpha hydroxy acids — are the chemical exfoliants behind smoother skin, clearer pores, and better texture. Most people use them on their face. Far fewer think to use them on their body. But your arms, legs, back, and bum deal with the same issues: dryness, roughness, KP, ingrown hairs, uneven tone. AHAs work on all of it.

Here are the rules.

Do: Apply at night

AHAs increase your skin's sensitivity to UV light. Apply my Smoothing AHA Body Lotion at night — let it work while you sleep, and your skin will be softer by morning. It's a zero-effort skin treatment that happens while you do nothing. My favourite kind.

Don't: Use it on the same night as your scrub

My Smoothing AHA Body Lotion exfoliates chemically. My Glycolic Body Scrub exfoliates both chemically and physically. Using both on the same night is overkill — your skin needs exfoliation, not over-exfoliation. Alternate them: scrub nights and lotion nights, not both at once.

Do: Wear SPF the next day

AHAs temporarily increase UV sensitivity, so wearing SPF on skin that's been treated is non-negotiable. This applies to any exposed areas — arms, legs, décolletage. If you're not already wearing SPF daily, here's your nudge.

Don't: Apply to broken or irritated skin

AHAs are acids. Applying them to freshly shaved, waxed, sunburned, or broken skin will sting and irritate. Wait 24 to 48 hours after hair removal before applying, and avoid any areas that are actively irritated.

Do: Focus on problem areas

KP on your upper arms? Rough patches on your elbows or heels? Ingrown hairs on your legs? Apply a slightly more generous layer to the areas you most want to treat. Consistent use over four to six weeks is where the real results happen.

Don't: Expect overnight miracles

AHAs are cumulative. One application will leave your skin softer. Six weeks of consistent use will visibly improve texture, tone, and clarity. Start two to three nights a week, and build from there as your skin adjusts.

Do: Let it absorb properly

Apply to clean, slightly damp skin after your shower for best absorption. Let it sink in fully before getting dressed — it only takes a few minutes.

x frank