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AHA vs. BHA: Which Exfoliate Should You Use for Glowing Skin?

Dr. Swati Kaktikar

6 Min Read

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Achieving radiant and glowing skin requires a dedicated skincare routine, and exfoliation is a crucial step in that process. Two popular exfoliating ingredients, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), are commonly found in skincare products. In this article, we will explore the differences between AHA and BHA (AHA vs. BHA), benefits of AHA and BHA, helping you make an informed decision about which exfoliant is best suited for your skin type and concerns.

Understanding Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are water-soluble acids derived from fruits, milk, and sugar. Common types of AHAs include glycolic acid (from sugar cane), lactic acid (from milk), malic acid (from apples), and citric acid (from citrus fruits).

AHAs primarily work on the skin’s surface by breaking down dead skin cells, facilitating their removal. This process, known as chemical exfoliation, promotes cell turnover, revealing fresh, radiant skin underneath.

Understanding Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble acids, with the most common type being salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is derived from salicin, a compound found in willow bark. BHAs penetrate deeper into the skin, making them effective at unclogging pores. They work by dissolving excess sebum and preventing the formation of acne and blackheads. BHAs are particularly well-suited for oily and acne-prone skin.

Difference Between AHA and BHA ( AHA vs. BHA )

Both AHAs and BHAs contribute to overall skin health, their specific modes of action make them better suited for addressing different skin concerns, allowing individuals to tailor their skincare routine based on their unique needs. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are powerful exfoliating agents that offer a myriad of benefits for the skin. Each type of acid comes with its own set of advantages, making them popular choices in skincare routines worldwide.

Benefits of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs):

1) Exfoliation and Cell Turnover

AHAs work primarily on the skin’s surface, effectively exfoliating by loosening and removing dead skin cells. This process promotes cell turnover, revealing fresher, younger-looking skin.

2) Smoothing Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Regular use of AHAs can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By encouraging the shedding of old, damaged skin cells, AHAs contribute to a smoother and more even complexion.

3) Treatment of Hyperpigmentation

AHAs are known for their ability to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. They inhibit melanin production and promote the growth of new, evenly-pigmented skin.

4) Stimulation of Collagen Production

Glycolic acid, a common AHA, has been shown to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness, contributing to a more youthful appearance.

5) Hydration and Moisture Retention

Some AHAs, such as lactic acid, have humectant properties, attracting moisture to the skin. This helps in maintaining hydration levels and preventing dryness.

6) Improvement of Sun-Damaged Skin

AHAs can be effective in addressing sun damage by promoting the removal of damaged skin cells and encouraging the growth of healthier skin.

Benefits of Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs):

1) Penetration into Pores

BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are oil-soluble, allowing them to penetrate deep into the pores. This makes them particularly effective for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin.

2) Treatment of Acne and Blackheads

BHAs excel at treating acne and blackheads by dissolving excess sebum and preventing the clogging of pores. Salicylic acid is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing redness and irritation associated with acne.

3) Reduction of Excess Oil

Individuals with oily skin can benefit from BHAs, as they help regulate oil production and minimize shine without overly drying the skin.

4) Anti-Inflammatory Properties

BHAs have anti-inflammatory effects, making them suitable for calming redness and inflammation associated with conditions like acne and rosacea.

5) Unclogging Pores

Regular use of BHAs helps in unclogging pores, preventing the formation of new blemishes and promoting a clearer complexion.

6) Improvement of Uneven Skin Tone

BHAs contribute to an even skin tone by addressing issues like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which often follows acne breakouts.

Choosing AHA and BHA Based on Skin Type:

Acne-Prone Skin

BHAs are highly recommended for acne-prone skin due to their ability to penetrate oil and treat acne at its source. Salicylic acid, a BHA, is particularly effective in unclogging pores and preventing breakouts. Look out for the best acne treatment.

Remove Dead Skin Cells

Both AHA and BHA are excellent at removing dead skin cells. However, if you’re looking for surface exfoliation, AHAs are more suitable, while BHAs are better for deep within the pores.

Dry Skin

AHAs are a better choice for individuals with dry skin. They help remove the top layer of dead skin cells, promoting hydration, and improving overall skin texture. Looking for the best dry skin treatment?

Dark Spots

AHAs can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation by promoting cell turnover and revealing fresh skin. However, BHAs are also effective, especially for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne. Look no further. We got you the best pigmentation treatment.

How to Incorporate AHA or BHA into Your Routine?

Start Slowly

Introduce AHA or BHA gradually into your skincare routine to allow your skin to adjust. Begin with a lower concentration and frequency.

Use Sunscreen

Both AHAs and BHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always use sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from UV rays.

Consider a Face Scrub

Enhance the benefits of AHA or BHA by incorporating a well-formulated face scrub into your skincare routine. The physical exfoliation complements the chemical exfoliation, leaving you with smoother and more radiant skin.

How To Identify If a Product Has AHA or BHAs?

Check a product’s ingredients list. Some names for AHAs are:

1) Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is a water-soluble acid derived from sugar cane. It is one of the most popular alpha-hydroxy acids that is used for skincare. Molecules of this acid are comparatively smaller and thus can penetrate the layers of the skin and exfoliate it more effectively than other acid-based chemical peels. It increases the rate at which dead skin is removed and replaced by new skin. It does this by dissolving the bonds that exist between skin cells, which allows dead skin to slide off the face.

It also increases collagen production in the skin making it firm, plump and increasing its elasticity. Glycolic acid promotes cell turnover, which means that it helps new, healthy skin cells to replace the old ones. This can result in fresher, more youthful-looking skin.

2) Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is produced from lactose in milk, as opposed to other AHAs that are derived from fruits. It’s also well-known for having strong anti-ageing and exfoliating properties. Looking for the best anti-ageing treatment?

3) Tartaric Acid

Another kind of AHA is tartaric. It is derived from grape extracts and can potentially reduce acne and sun damage symptoms.

4) Citric Acid

Citrus fruit extracts are used to create citric acid. Its primary goals are to balance the pH levels of the skin and smooth out any rough areas. When used as a serum or toner before putting on a moisturizer, citric acid works well. To offer the most UV protection, it could even complement sunscreen.

Check a product’s ingredients list. Some names for BHAs are:

1) Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from salicin. It belongs to a class of compounds known for their exfoliating properties. Salicylic acid is widely used in various skincare products due to its ability to penetrate oil and exfoliate the skin. People frequently use salicylic acid as an ingredient in skin care products to treat acne. It functions to exfoliate the skin and clear clogged pores. Salicylic acid additionally aids in reducing sebum production in the skin.

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Precautions Before Using AHA and BHA Products

Use of skin care products containing either ingredient may cause skin irritation, redness, or increased risk of sunburn for up to seven days after discontinuing use. Before using an over-the-counter product containing AHAs or BHAs, it’s always advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Conclusion – Choosing the Right Acid for Your Skin

While both AHAs and BHAs offer incredible benefits, the choice between them depends on your skin type, concerns, and goals. Some individuals may even incorporate both types of acids into their skincare routine for a comprehensive approach to exfoliation. Always start with a patch test and introduce these acids gradually to observe how your skin responds. If you have specific skin concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist on MFine for personalized advice tailored to your needs.