The Ultimate Guide to AHA & BHA in Skincare
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Looking to up your skincare game? AHA and BHA are two of the most useful families of ingredients you can learn about. Here is what they are and what each one is actually for.
What are AHA and BHA?
AHA stands for alpha hydroxy acid, BHA for beta hydroxy acid. Both are exfoliants that remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve texture. AHA is water-soluble and works on the skin's surface. BHA is oil-soluble and can get down inside the pore.
How do they benefit the skin?
AHA exfoliates, improves tone and texture, and softens the look of fine lines. BHA suits oily and acne-prone skin, because it penetrates into the pores, clears them, and calms inflammation.
How to incorporate AHA and BHA into your skincare routine
If you are new to acids, start slow. Begin with a lower concentration a couple of times a week and let your skin adjust. Always wear sunscreen during the day when you are using them, because they make skin more sensitive to the sun.
Choosing the right products
Match the acid to your skin. Dry or sensitive skin usually does better with a gentler AHA like lactic acid, or with mandelic acid. Oily or acne-prone skin does better with salicylic acid. Read the labels and patch test before you commit.
Home care will only take you so far. In studio I work at professional strength, which is a different thing entirely. Have a look at my chemical peels and the PCA peel range, or book a skin care consultation if you would rather I chose for you.
