Chemical Exfoliation: AHA vs. BHA – Which is Right for You?

 Hello My Skincare Nerds🤓,

Reference: Google Images

Are you still exfoliating your skin using physical scrubs like walnut, but you're not seeing the desired results? It's time to give up harsh cleaning and transition to chemical exfoliation. Give these potent chemicals a chance to handle the work so you can have the silky, radiant skin you've always desired. In today's blog, we'll talk about chemical exfoliation and specifically compare AHAs and BHAs to help you determine which is ideal for your skincare routine. Let's move forward now!

🍁AHAs: What Are They?

One class of water-soluble acids included in milk and fruit products are called alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs for short. Some of the most prevalent forms of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are sugar cane-derived glycolic acid, sour milk-derived lactic acid, citrus-derived citric acid, apple-derived malic acid, and grape-derived tartaric acid. AHAs are adaptable ingredients in skincare formulas because each one has specific benefits for the skin.

✅Different AHA types:

• Glycolic Acid: Glycolic acid, the smallest and most thoroughly investigated class of compound, is derived from sugarcane. It is a beneficial remedy for wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven texture because of its small molecular size, which allows for deep skin absorption. Due to the acceleration of cell division by glycolic acid, skin emerges smoother and brighter.

• Lactic Acid: It is a less irritating form of glycolic acid, so it's excellent for people with skin that is sensitive. Gently exfoliating the skin with lactic acid strengthens its texture and encourages moisture retention. Individuals who want to acquire a beautiful complexion without producing irritation are frequently recommended to use this AHA.

• Citric Acid: It smooths out skin tone, brightens the complexion, and promotes texture. Citric acid is well known for having the potential to diminish the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation while simultaneously promoting a healthy glow.

• Tartaric Acid: Tartaric acid is a not as prevalent but useful alpha-hydroxy acid derived from grapes. It's loaded with anti-oxidant properties that help the skin fight free radicals and significantly reduce oxidative stress. Skin tone that is more smooth and brighter is the outcome of tartaric acid.

• Malic Acid: Another AHA with antioxidant and exfoliating characteristics is malic acid, which is found in apples. It increases the natural radiance of the complexion and assists in smoothing out the texture of the skin. Malic acid is normally included in skincare formulas targeting tiredness and symptoms of ageing processes.

🍁BHAs: What Are They?

The most prevalent type of oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid, or BHA, is salicylic acid. Because BHAs are so good at getting into sebum pores, they are perfect for anyone with oily or acne-prone skin. In particular, salicylic acid is well known for its capacity to unclog pores and eliminate extra oil, both of which aid in the treatment and prevention of acne.

✅Different BHA types:

Salicylic Acid: It is an effective betahydroxy acid for greasy and acne-prone skin. It penetrates the pores of the skin and exfoliates the surface, effectively treating blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.

• AHAs vs. BHAs: The Difference

AHAs and BHAs differ greatly when it comes to skin exfoliation. AHAs work on the surface of the skin to promote smoother, brighter skin, while BHAs penetrate deeper to address clogged pores and excess oil. What you should choose depends on your skin type and concerns. 

• Choose AHA- if you have pigmentation, acne marks, sun damage, skin texture.
• Choose BHA- if you have acne, clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads.

Reference: Google Images

• Can BHA and AHA Be Used Together?

Combining BHA and AHA in your skincare regimen is possible and may even be beneficial. Nonetheless, it's crucial to use them at the recommended dosages. It is often advised by dermatologists not to use more than 2% salicylic acid and 5% glycolic acid. This combination can provide a complete exfoliating sensation by addressing both deeper and surface skin issues.

• When to Use AHA and BHA?

🔍AHAs: Great for treating sun damage, even out skin tone, and minimising the look of fine wrinkles. Because AHAs can make you more sensitive to the sun, use them in the evening and remember to use sunscreen during the day.

🔍BHAs: Ideal for people with oily skin, acne, and blackheads. BHAs can be used in the morning or the evening, while some people may find it more appropriate to use them in the evening.

🔍If the product you use for skincare contains both BHA and AHA, it is best used at night. To prevent your skin from becoming sensitive to sunlight, reapply sunscreen the following day. Applications made at night promote skin renewal as you sleep and let these acids function unhindered by other products.

• How Can You Incorporate BHA and AHA into Your Skincare Regimen?

✅Cleaning: Apply a light cleanser to your skin to get rid of any debris, impurities, or makeup.

✅AHA Application: If you're using a product with AHA, apply it first. This can be a toner, serum, or cream containing glycolic or lactic acid. Let it seep into your skin.

 TIPS: Always start slow. Applying more than twice a week is not advised.

✅BHA Application: Same for BHA as well, apply a product with salicylic acid, focusing on areas prone to congestion or acne. Allow it to penetrate the skin.

TIPS: Always start slow. Applying more than twice a week is not advised.

✅Moisturize: To seal in moisture and calm the skin, apply a hydrating moisturiser afterward.

✅Sunscreen: When protecting your skin from UV radiation, implement a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum filter on a daily basis that has a high SPF rating of at least SPF 50 and PA+++. Always remember to reapply sunblock throughout the day to maintain protection.

My Top 5 AHA & BHA Recommendations:  (Under Rs 600)

Suganda 5% Lactic Acid Serum

Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum

Plum 2% Salicylic Acid Serum

Formula Rx 5% AHA+ 1% BHA Serum

Foxtale AHA -BHA Exfoliating Serum

• Takeaway

The right AHA and BHA for you will depend on the condition of your skin type and problems. Experimenting with these chemical exfoliants can lead to a healthier, more radiant complexion. Always remember that maintaining a regimen is essential, and pay attention to your skin's needs at all times. So, say goodbye to walnut scrubs, welcome the benefits of chemical exfoliation, and watch as your skin glows with renewed energy.

----Thank you For Reading,

🍀Lets be together to maintain each others skin-barrier level.

    -N.S.