Here’s the thing about skin: it’s not one size fits all. So, if you’re looking for a clearer complexion, you need to find the right skincare ingredients for your own individual skin type. And that’s where AHAs and BHA come in. So, what is AHA and BHA about?
Wondering what the differences are between these two ingredients? Well, read on! You might be surprised by what you learn. Plus, we’ll give you some tips on how to incorporate AHAs and BHA into your skincare routine. Sound good? Then let’s get started!
What are AHAs and BHAs?
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are both types of acids that can be found in skincare products.
AHAs are water-soluble, while BHAs are oil soluble.
Both acids work to slough off the top layer of skin cells, which can help improve the appearance of skin texture and pores. AHAs and BHAs are also thought to help increase collagen production and reduce inflammation.
Both acids offer unique benefits for the skin, but how do they differ from each other?
AHAs are generally recommended for people with dry skin, while BHAs may be better for people with oily skin and acne-prone skin.
BHAs are less aggressive and irritating compared to AHAs.
BHAs are commonly used in acne treatments, as they are oil-soluble and work by dissolving the oil that is stuck in pores. This results in fewer breakouts and less visible pores. AHAs are water-soluble and work by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This results in exfoliation and smoother, brighter skin.
– So, which one should you use?
If you have dry or sensitive skin, AHAs are a good choice. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, BHAs are a better choice. You can also use both acids together for maximum benefit.
If you’re curious about which acid is best for your skin type, keep reading for a more in-depth look at the differences between AHAs and BHAs!
– What are their primary purposes?
The primary purposes of AHA and BHA include;
AHA:
The primary purpose of AHA is to improve the appearance of the skin by exfoliating the surface and revealing new, fresh skin cells underneath. In addition, AHA can also help to diminish hyperpigmentation, the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
BHA:
The primary purpose of BHA is to exfoliate the skin and clear out pores. BHA can also help to reduce inflammation and redness, making it a good choice for people with acne-prone skin.
– What are the differences between them?
AHA and BHA differ in the following ways:
AHAs are less aggressive and more moisturizing or hydrating than BHAs.
AHAs can be used on all skin types, while BHAs are best for oily and acne-prone skin.
BHAs are better at dissolving oil and clearing out pores, while AHAs are better at exfoliating the skin and reducing hyperpigmentation.
– How do you use them?
To use AHAs, look for products that contain glycolic acid, lactic acid, or citric acid. These acids can be found in cleansers, toners, moisturizers, scrubs, peels, and masks. Start by using these products once or twice a week, and increase the frequency as your skin tolerates.
To use BHAs, look for products that contain salicylic acid. This acid can be found in acne treatments, cleansers, toners, and moisturizers. Start by using these products once or twice a week, and increase the frequency as your skin tolerates.
– What are the benefits?
Some of the benefits of using AHAs include:
– Smoother, brighter skin
– Diminished hyperpigmentation
– Increased collagen production
– Reduced inflammation
Some of the benefits of using BHAs include:
– Clearer, less oily skin
– Fewer breakouts
– Reduced inflammation
– Smaller pores
– So, which one should you use?
So, which should you use? AHAs or BHAs?
If you’re not sure which acid is best for your skin type, talk to a dermatologist or skincare professional to get started. Both acids offer unique benefits for the skin, so you can’t go wrong with either one.
However, AHAs are an excellent choice for those with dry or sensitive skin. On the other hand, BHAs are a better option if you have oily or acne-prone skin. You may also combine the two acids for optimal benefits.
Both AHAs and BHAs can work together to yield the following results;
– Smoother, brighter skin
– Diminished hyperpigmentation
– Increased collagen production
– Reduced inflammation
– Clearer, less oily skin
– Fewer breakouts
– Smaller pores
So, you may want to Incorporate AHAs and/or BHAs into your skincare routine to enjoy beautiful, healthy skin!
When should I use AHAs and BHAs in my skincare routine?
Depending on the formulation, you can use AHAs and BHAs in the morning or night. When using an AHA or BHA product, always be sure to follow up with sunscreen, as both acids make the skin more sensitive to the sun.
How many types of AHAs are used in skincare products?
AHAs come in many different forms, and there are 9 different types that you can find in skincare products. The most common AHAs used in skincare are glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid.
Other less common AHAs include malic acid, tartaric acid, mandelic acid, hydroxycaproic acid (from royal jelly), hydroxycaprylic acid (from animals), and malic acid. Each type of AHA has its own unique benefits for the skin.
For example;
Glycolic acid is the smallest AHA molecule, so it penetrates the skin more deeply than other AHAs. This makes it an excellent choice for those with dull, dry skin, as well as hyperpigmented skin.
Lactic acid, on the other hand, is larger than glycolic acid, so it doesn’t penetrate as deeply. This makes it a better choice for those with sensitive skin.
Citric acid is a good all-around AHA that can be used on all skin types.
Mandelic acid is the largest AHA molecule, so it’s the least likely to cause irritation. This makes it a good choice for those with sensitive skin.
Tartaric acid is a good choice for those with acne-prone skin, as it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hydroxycaproic acid (from royal jelly) and hydroxycaprylic acid (from animals) are good choices for those with dry skin and fine lines or wrinkles, as they help to hydrate and plump the skin.
Malic acid is a good choice for those with sun-damaged, dry, and dull skin, as it helps to brighten, hydrate and exfoliate the skin. It works better by making other AHAs more effective.
So, there are many different types of AHAs that you can choose from, depending on your specific skincare
If you’re not sure which AHA is best for your skin type, talk to a dermatologist or skincare professional to get started. With so many different types of AHAs to choose from, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your individual needs!
How many types of BHAs are used in skincare products?
There are 4 different types of BHAs that are commonly used in skincare products; salicylic acid, betaine salicylate, willow bark extract, and Lipohydroxy Acid
Salicylic acid is the most common type of BHA, and it’s an excellent choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It’s often used to treat acne. Salicylic acid works by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, which helps to unclog pores, reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts.
Betaine salicylate is a less common type of BHA that’s derived from sugar beets. A Bio-Tech Co. found that it helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, making it a good choice for those with dry skin. It works in a similar way to salicylic acid, but it’s gentler on the skin.
Willow bark extract is another type of BHA that’s derived from the bark of willow trees. It contains salicin, which is a natural form of salicylic acid. Willow bark extract is a good choice for those with sensitive skin, as it’s gentle and non-irritating. i
Lipohydroxy acid is the least common type of BHA, but it’s becoming more popular in recent years, and It’s derived from salicylic acid. A 2015 study showed that It is a non-irritating exfoliant that helps to gently remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin and unclog pores, revealing a brighter and more youthful complexion. LHA also helps to reduce the appearance of pores and blemishes and can be used to treat acne-prone skin.
So, there are 4 different types of BHAs that you can choose from, depending on your specific skincare needs. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, salicylic acid is a great choice. If you have dry skin, betaine salicylate is a good option. And if you have sensitive skin, willow bark extract or lipohydroxy acid may be the best choice for you.
Where can I find products that contain AHAs and BHAs?’
AHAs and BHAs can be found in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and masks. However, not all AHAs and BHAs are created equal. Some are more effective than others. So, it’s important to do your research before purchasing a product.
Some of the best AHA and BHA products on the market include the following:
1. Cane + Austin Miracle Pad + 30% Glycolic Acid Pad: These pads are soaked in a potent blend of 30% glycolic acid (AHA) with lactic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA). The combination of these acids is incredibly effective in exfoliating the skin, unclogging pores and reducing the appearance of acne, and brightening age spots or uneven skin tone.
2. Drunk Elephant T.L.C Framboos Glycolic Night Serum: This serum contains 12% glycolic acid and is designed to help improve the appearance of skin texture, fine lines, and wrinkles.
3. Paula’s Choice Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA: This serum contains 10% AHAs (glycolic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, and tartaric acid) blended with 0.5%BHA (salicylic acid) and is designed to help improve the appearance of skin texture, tone, fine lines, and wrinkles.
4. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution: This product contains 30% AHAs and 2% BHAs, both providing chemical exfoliation for the skin. It is a powerful peeling solution that works to significantly improve the appearance of skin texture and tone. The combination of AHAs and BHAs can help to unclog pores, visibly reduce blemish, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brighten the skin.
5. Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 1970: This lotion contains a variety of AHAs (including lactic acid, citric acid, and malic acid) as well as BHAs (salicylic acid) and PHAs (gluconolactone). It’s designed to help improve the appearance of skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, pores, and blemishes.
6. Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser: This cleanser contains a blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores. It also helps to smooth and brighten the skin, leaving it with a youthful radiant appearance.
7. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel: these pads offer both AHA and BHA acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid) to give you a deeper exfoliation. They also contain antioxidant vitamins, soothing botanicals, and cell-communicating ingredients to leave your skin smooth and glowing.
How do I use AHAs and BHAS in my skincare routine? Safety Tips
When using AHAs and BHAs in your skincare routine, it’s important to start slowly. If you’re not used to using acids on your skin, then begin by using them once or twice a week. As your skin becomes more tolerant of the acids, you can then use them more often.
To use AHAs and BHAs in your skincare routine, follow these steps:
1. Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser.
2. Apply a serum or other treatment product that may contain AHAs or BHAs.
3. Finish with a moisturizer.
4. If you’re using AHA/BHA pads, apply them after Step 1.
5. Be sure to use sunscreen during the day when using AHAs and BHAs, as they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays.
Safety tips:
-Start with using them at night.
-You don’t need to use a lot of it. A pea-sized amount is all you need.
-Work up to using them every other day or as tolerated.
-Don’t forget to wear sunscreen during the day!
-If you experience any irritation, discontinue use.
-If you have sensitive skin, start by using them once a week and gradually increase frequency as tolerated.
-If you have very dry skin, use them every other day or as tolerated.
-If you have oily skin, you can use them daily.
These tips can help to ensure that your skin is properly protected while still reaping the benefits of AHAs and BHAs.
Conclusion
AHAs and BHAs are chemical exfoliants that can help to improve the appearance of skin texture, tone, fine lines, wrinkles, pores, and blemishes. They work by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. AHAs are usually glycolic acid or lactic acid, while BHAs are usually salicylic acid. It’s important to start slowly when using them, as they can cause irritation if you’re not used to them. You should also wear sunscreen during the day when using AHAs and BHAs, as they make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays.