A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BHA AND AHA
FRITZVON on JUNE 7, 2019
Let’s face it, everyone wants beautiful, smooth and healthy skin, free from breakouts, pesky whiteheads and rough dry patches and while there are many scrubs and exploiting tools that promise to give us this, these tools can sometimes be too abrasive for everyday use. So why not opt for a more gentle daily solution, it’s time to get familiar with AHA and BHA exfoliants.
WHAT IS AHA AND BHA?
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA ( Beta Hydroxy Acid) are naturally derived, chemical exploiters. Yes, I know what you’re thinking, the words ‘acid’ and ‘chemical’ can be a little intimidating especially when it pertains to skincare but these acids have been proven not only to be safe and gentle but extremely beneficial in polishing away icky buildup on the skin’s surface.
While both share many common benefits, such as diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,
minimizing the appearance of pores, boosting collagen production and improving the overall texture of the skin, no one is better than the other. So which is right for you?
ALPHA HYDROXY ACID (AHA)
AHA are acids derived from natural substances such as sugar cane, milk, and grapes, the most common are glycolic acid and lactic acid. They work by melting the glue that holds our dead skin cells together, in terms aiding our skin’s natural shedding process. AHA’s are made up of tiny molecules of water-soluble acids, which means they won’t dry your skin but help to maintain moisture. AHAs work best for dry skin because they exfoliate the skin’s surface and have the added benefit of also improving moisture content. Unlike BHA’s which penetrates the deep into the pores, AHA works best on treating just the surface of the skin.
① NAKEUP FACE 10% Glycolic Acid AHA Scaling Cream 30ml
② Isntree Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence 100ml
③ Elizavecca Hell-Pore Clean up AHA Fruit Toner 200ml
④ COSRX AHA 7 WHITEHEAD POWER LIQUID 100ml
BETA HYDROXY ACID (BHA)
The most common BHA is salicylic acid, which is derived from willow bark and unlike AHA is oil soluble which mean It’s ideal for oily or blemish-prone skin since those generally need further penetration in order to shed that top layer. It’s also great for those who experience blackheads, whiteheads, and acne since it breaks down the paste-like sebum deep within the pore walls.
① Isntree Clear Skin BHA Toner 200ml
② Neulii BHA PHA 5.5 Peeling Pad 70ea
③ PURITO BHA Dead Skin Moisture Gel 100ml
④ COSRX BHA BLACKHEAD POWER LIQUID 100 ML
Regardless of whichever you choose, AHA and BHA ingredient should be a staple in your routine.
Comments can be added by Member only