The OG glow givers - Alpha-H is an Australian science-backed skincare brand that pioneered the use of Glycolic Acid in its cult-favourite Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment.
As a Pharmaceutical Formulation master’s student at UCL with research expertise in topical formulations, I am fascinated by cutting-edge skincare. However, I am also aware that true progress lies in making high-tech formulations safe, stable and effective for everyday use outside of a clinical/laboratory setting.
This is where Alpha-H comes in, a science-backed skincare brand from Australia, known for delivering clinical results at home. It was founded by Michelle Doherty in 1995, who herself suffered with chronic acne in her late teens and 20s.
Over 30 years ago, Michelle pioneered the use of Glycolic Acid in skincare, taking the leap when other brands weren’t. Their approach to results-driven skincare includes three key steps:
Alpha-H’s Balancing Cleanser is designed to remove dirt, pollution and makeup whilst supporting the skin’s natural pH. The cruelty free and vegan formula, contains:
A plant extract which is commonly known for its soothing and healing properties. It contains a range of bioactive compounds (vitamins, enzymes, amino acids and polysaccharides) which give it its anti-inflammatory, hydrating and anti-microbial advantages (1).
An antioxidant which protects the skin due to its photoprotective properties. Acting as a free-radical scavenger, vitamin E tackles oxidative stress which leads to wrinkles, dullness and pigmentation in the skin.
For over two decades, Alpha-H’s Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment has enabled the replication of clinical treatments with at-home skincare. The product relies on a unique low-pH delivery system at 2.8-3.0. This is because glycolic acid needs to be in its active form to penetrate the stratum corneum, which is the outer most layer of the skin. At a lower pH, glycolic acid is more active, or potent, therefore increasing its penetration in the skin. The hero ingredients include:
With the smallest molecular weight compared to all alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), it is able to easily penetrate the skin (2). It helps to accelerate the skin renewal process, reversing the signs of aging and photodamage. This is because it is able to enhance the desquamation (peeling) of the stratum corneum and induce biological responses which help to restore the skin’s integrity. Studies have shown glycolic acid treatment also increased collagen levels (3).
Naturally active macromolecules derived from silk. They have moisturising, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. Shown to play a significant role in enhancing skin lustre and elasticity by preventing trans-epidermal water loss (4).
Used for its depigmentation potential. Liquorice root extract contains bioactive compounds; glycyrrhizin, glabridin and licochaicone, which are responsible for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-microbial effects (5).
All of these things combined in a unique delivery system, have shown an increase in luminosity, elasticity, tackling uneven skin tone and texture. It is clinically proven to exfoliate the skin 30% faster than the natural cellular turnover of our skin after 8 hours of application (a key finding from an independent clinical trial of 30 women in 2022).
The Daily Essential Moisturiser (SPF50+) with hydrosellaTM, is a 2-in-1 moisturiser and SPF, leaving the skin feeling radiant, fresh and dewy. The hydrating formulation protects against UVA (ultraviolet) and UVB rays, whilst leaving no white cast. The key ingredients include vitamin E, HydrosellaTM and UVA/UVB filters.
An amino acid-rich extract, which uses osmosis (the movement of water from high concentrations to lower concentrations) to hydrate the skin. It works by increasing the skin’s natural organic osmolytes (water-soluble organic compounds) to draw water into the skin cells, preventing dehydration. The extract is derived from Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle).
Reduce the damaging effects of UV exposure.
A new product which has recently launched is Alpha-H’s Firming Collagen Repair Cream, which deeply nourishes and protects the skin. The water-in-oil formulation contains;
Protecting, supporting and hydrating your skin barrier is essential. A healthy skin barrier means you can continue exfoliating your skin, achieving clinical results at home. In under 60 seconds, your personalised skincare routine can be created, comprising of a simple range of products which are tailored to your skin concerns. With a range of serums, exfoliators, cleansers and creams, Alpha-H covers all bases.
Alpha-H is Michelle’s legacy, envisioned from her own personal experiences. As a female-founded company, Alpha-H is also committed to giving back, supporting all women through philanthropic initiatives. For example, their ongoing partnership with Support The Girls, creating safe spaces for women and empowering their transformations. Alpha-H’s ‘conscious formulations’, highlight the brand’s commitment to reducing their environmental impact, from recycled packaging, managing their liquid waste sustainably and powering their manufacturing facilities with green energy.
Overall, Alpha-H shows that true skincare innovation must combine advanced chemistry with accessibility. By translating professional-grade actives into stable formulations, Alpha-H epitomises ‘bench to bedside’ research.
