To siHA, or not siHA: That’s it really the question? Not when there are also powerful AHAs to consider for your skin.
Alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids are skin care ingredients that can be found in a variety of products for concerns from antiaging to acne. While their names may sound confusingly like excerpts from “Hamlet,” both tend to be relatively mild exfoliants that won’t have you scrambling for CliffsNotes.
We’re here to demystify these two powerful groups of skin care acids, their main benefits and differences for different skin types, and how to use these beneficial ingredients for your skin. No “questions” were asked!
What Are Alpha Hydroxy Acids Vs. Beta hydroxy acids?
We don’t know about you, but all the previous seasonal damage to our skin has left us with spots – and not the kind you see when you accidentally stare into the sun or other bright light for too long. It’s no secret that summer and fall are the seasons for outdoor fun – and let’s not forget the reflection of winter UV-damaging snow – until our skin starts to show wear and tear.
Instead of our skin pressing down on us like the winter blues, it’s time to make room between snow angels, sledding – or snow-free outdoor adventures – to exfoliate. Enter alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). Both of these effective exfoliants can help boost your glow! But is it a flash for all the enthusiasts out there? Let’s find out!
Alpha hydroxy acids are a type of water-soluble chemical exfoliant that are great for targeting the surface of your skin. These acids are chemical compounds found naturally in common foods, and especially fruits. Green apple, berries and citrus fruits (although lactic acid comes from dairy products) are all natural sources of alpha hydroxy acids.
Unlike AHAs, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are oil soluble – an important feature as it allows these types of acids to penetrate the skin barrier. The best known (and most commonly used) beta hydroxy acid is salicylic acid. This BHA is usually derived from the bark of willow trees and is found in cleaning products from cleansers to toners and face masks.
How do alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids work?
The effects of alpha hydroxy acids tend to be limited to the surface of your skin. When you apply a mask, cream, or other product that contains AHAs, it will help eliminate dead cells from the surface of your skin. This will soften your skin, even out your complexion and possibly encourage collagen production as well.
Alpha hydroxy acids are often found in antiaging products because of their ability to improve skin’s appearance and texture, from smaller pores to improved skin clarity. The most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids in skin care are glycolic (derived from sugar cane), lactic (derived from dairy and fermented products), and citric (derived from citrus fruits).
The fact that beta hydroxy acids are oil-soluble makes them particularly effective when applied to oily, acne-prone skin. These acids can penetrate the surface of your skin through your follicles, sinking deeper into your skin tissue than AHAs. BHAs not only help exfoliate your skin and clear your pores, but they also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to help fight breakouts, which is why salicylic acid is popular in acne treatments.
How to choose an AHA or BHA for your skin type
The first step in choosing your acid exfoliator depends on your skin type. Understand that some exfoliants are stronger than others, which can sometimes lead to irritation or dryness, especially if you have sensitive skin.
If you have normal to combination skin, your skin will prefer products with AHAs. They’re gentle enough if your skin wobbles from dry to normal and strong enough to balance combination skin without stripping it. If you have combination skin and struggle with sun damage, the vitamin C mask will eliminate dark spots and discoloration and includes a powerful blend of fruit enzymes to wipe away residue.
If you have oily and acne-prone skinyour skin could benefit from a salicylic acid (BHA) product. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it can easily penetrate into oily pores and help control oil production. You can find it in our anti-acne masks: easy-to-use sheet masks that help clear up troubled skin while keeping it hydrated and nourished.
If you have dry or sensitive skinthey don’t let you dry. You may find that the glycolic or salicylic acid is too much for your skin to handle. If this is the case, fear not. you have daily to count – as in lactic acid. It doesn’t penetrate as deep into the skin – less irritation for the win!
Tips for using alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids
To prevent damage to your skin and optimize the exfoliation process, here are important tips and guidelines on how to use AHAs and BHAs:
How to start using AHAs and BHAs
If you’ve never learned how to acid peel before, you don’t want to jump right into using higher percentages – start low and slow. Where you can start depends on how sensitive your skin is and your skin type.
When to Exfoliate
Using an AHA or BHA in the morning and then going out in the sun is a big no-no! Alpha and beta hydroxy acids can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so use your exfoliants at night. Even when you wake up and get ready to go out, use sunscreen and repeat every 2 hours.
How to exfoliate without irritation
Avoid applying AHAs and BHAs to wet skin. wait until your skin is completely dry to use. Since hydroxy acids (especially glycolic and salicylic acids) can dry out your skin, you always want to replenish moisture levels afterward. Do not use other irritating ingredients such as alcohol or astringents that may dry out your skin.
How to exfoliate the right amount
Listen to your skin: some may be able to use an AHA or BHA daily, but others can only handle exfoliating 2-3 times a week. Signs of excessive exfoliation include: Dryness, irritation, peeling, burning and breakouts.
Skin care to pair with your alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids
Vitamin C serum
For all skin types (even sensitive skin), we have an essential ingredient in the quest to boost collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and fight free radicals. We’ve packed our serum with ingredients that work synergistically with stabilized vitamin C to improve skin’s texture and appearance, and powerful antioxidants to nourish post-exfoliation. Additionally, combining AHA or BHA with this serum can enhance brightness and promote an even skin tone.
Glow serum
This serum is perfect to follow up with AHAs for anyone targeting dull or uneven skin. Designed to combat hyperpigmentation, dullness and uneven skin tone, it contains ingredients such as vitamin C and niacinamide to inhibit melanin production, exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. The addition of sake, tart fruit and licorice gently brightens skin tone and supports cell renewal for a radiant complexion.
Acai Pulp Facial Scrub
This natural exfoliator is a great alternative for days when you don’t use AHAs or BHAs. This nutrient-rich scrub offers a delightful blend of gentle natural exfoliation and nutrients. Formulated with acai pulp and natural exfoliants, this scrub helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother texture. It has antioxidant-rich berries to rejuvenate and smooth the skin, and its moisturizing properties ensure your skin is soft and hydrated after exfoliation, making it suitable for regular use without fear of irritation.
AHAs and BHAs are powerful, natural skin care ingredients that can refine texture and minimize pores to promote cell turnover and restore radiance. The best part is that these all-star acids are diverse – there’s something for every skin type! Take advantage of the enhanced penetration of the product and follow up with a night mask, which has many great benefits for the skin!
Frequently Asked Questions about AHAs and BHAs
What is the difference between alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)?
AHAs are water-soluble and work on the surface of the skin, while BHAs are fat-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the pores. AHAs are generally better for normal skin types, while BHAs are generally better for oily and sensitive skin types. AHAs are great for minimizing fine lines and reducing sun damage, while BHAs are great for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improving skin texture.
How do AHAs benefit your skin?
AHAs help remove the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing fresh new cells underneath. AHAs can even out skin tone and treat hyperpigmentation. AHAs can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and can improve overall skin texture. With long-term use, AHAs may also increase collagen and elastin in the skin.
What are the benefits of using BHA for oily or acne-prone skin?
BHAs, especially salicylic acid, are beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin because they are fat-soluble, allowing them to penetrate deep into pores to remove excess oil, dead skin cells and debris, effectively reducing blackheads freckles, whiteheads and overall acne. breakouts while also having anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the redness associated with blemishes. making them ideal for congested pores and oily skin types.
Which exfoliator should I choose if I have sensitive or dry skin?
If you have sensitive or dry skin, you should choose a chemical exfoliator with mild acids such as lactic acid, as it is less irritating than natural scrubs and can effectively exfoliate without causing further dryness or redness. look for products with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera. If irritation occurs, reduce the frequency or consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
How often should I use AHAs or BHAs in my skincare routine?
When starting out with AHAs or BHAs in your skincare routine, it’s best to use them once or twice a week and gradually increase the frequency as your skin adjusts, depending on its tolerance and the strength of the product. for most people, using them every other day is a good place to start, but always listen to your skin and adjust accordingly. Always apply sunscreen when using AHAs or BHAs, as they can increase sun sensitivity.
