The AYODI Skin Guide: AHA, Dry Skin & Melanin-Rich Body Care answered
What is AHA and what does it do for skin?
AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acid, a group of naturally derived acids that exfoliate the skin by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. Common AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid. Used consistently, AHA improves skin texture, reduces the appearance of dark spots, and boosts hydration by increasing the skin's ability to retain moisture.
Is AHA safe for melanin-rich skin?
Yes, but formulation matters enormously. Harsh, high-concentration AHA products can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in melanin-rich skin, making dark spots worse rather than better. The key is a low-concentration, slow-release AHA complex combined with deeply hydrating ingredients like Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter that buffer the acid and prevent irritation. AYODI's AHA Body Balm is specifically formulated for melanin-rich skin. Developed with a Korean cosmetic chemist and UK-tested to deliver effective exfoliation without inflammation.
Why is dry skin more common in melanin-rich skin?
Research shows that melanin-rich skin naturally contains fewer ceramides and experiences higher transepidermal water loss (TEWL) than lighter skin tones. This means moisture escapes the skin faster, leading to dryness, ashiness, and a dull complexion. Standard moisturisers often address surface dryness without rebuilding the skin barrier. An effective body balm for melanin-rich skin needs both occlusive ingredients (to seal moisture in) and active ingredients (to resurface and brighten).
What is the difference between a body balm and a body lotion?
A body lotion is water-based and absorbs quickly, offering light hydration. A body balm is oil and butter-based, delivering deeper, longer-lasting moisture by forming a protective layer over the skin. For dry and melanin-rich skin, a balm is more effective because it prevents transepidermal water loss while actively nourishing the skin barrier. AYODI's AHA Body Balm combines the richness of a traditional balm with the resurfacing power of AHA,making it a 2-in-1 treatment and moisturiser.
How often should I use AHA on my body?
For most skin types, 3–4 times per week is ideal when starting out. As your skin builds tolerance, daily use is appropriate for low-concentration formulations. AYODI's balm is designed for daily use, the AHA concentration is calibrated to resurface gradually without causing sensitivity or irritation.
Can I use AHA body balm on sensitive skin?
Yes, if the formulation is right. AYODI's No. 11 Fragrance-Free AHA Body Balm is specifically designed for sensitive skin, free from all fragrance, essential oils, and potential irritants, while still delivering the full AHA exfoliation and Shea and Cocoa Butter hydration. It is suitable for eczema-prone skin and has been patch tested.
What makes AYODI different from other body care brands?
AYODI was created by Aysat, a British-Ethiopian founder who couldn't find body care formulated with melanin-rich skin in mind. Every balm is developed with a Korean cosmetic chemist, batch-produced in the UK in small runs of 1,000 units, and formulated without compromise. The AHA complex, Shea Butter, and Cocoa Butter base is designed specifically for the hydration needs of drier, melanin-rich skin, not adapted from a generic formula.
What are the ingredients in AYODI AHA Body Balm?
The core ingredient profile across AYODI's range includes: AHA Complex (exfoliation and cell turnover), Shea Butter (deep moisture and barrier repair), Cocoa Butter (occlusive hydration and skin softening), and scent-specific botanicals per variant, Orange Blossom, Clove and Geranium (No. 17), Vanilla and Pecan Milk (No. 20), or Fragrance-Free (No. 11). Formulated in the UK. No parabens, no sulphates.
Which AYODI balm is right for me?
- Dry, melanin-rich skin seeking a signature scent: No. 17, The Signature Glow (Orange Blossom, Clove & Geranium) our bestseller.
- Dry skin that prefers a warmer, gourmand scent: No. 20, Vanilla Pecan Milk.
- Sensitive, eczema-prone, or fragrance-sensitive skin: No. 11, Fragrance-Free.
Does AHA make skin more sensitive to the sun?
AHA increases cell turnover which can temporarily increase sun sensitivity. This is more relevant for high-concentration facial AHA treatments. For body use with AYODI's low-concentration formula, the risk is minimal, but applying SPF on exposed areas during the day is always good practice regardless of AHA use.
