There’s no question that skincare is a big business. However, with an ever-growing array of products available, it can be hard to decide which ones are right for you. AHA and BHA are two of the most popular ingredients in skincare products, but what’s the difference between them? And which one should you be using? Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each.
There are countless skin care products on the market, each promising to be the solution to your skin woes. However, knowing which one is right for you can be challenging with all of the different ingredients and formulations available. So, we’ll compare two popular skincare ingredients—AHA and BHA—to help you decide which is best for your skin type. Keep reading to learn more!
What do AHA and BHA do for skin?
AHA and BHA are acronyms for alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid. AHAs are water-soluble, while BHAs are oil soluble. Both of these acids can be found in natural or synthetic forms. AHAs are commonly used as chemical exfoliants to remove the outer layer of skin cells, while BHAs help clear pores and reduce inflammation. When used together, both AHAs and BHAs can improve the skin’s overall appearance. Let’s take a closer look at what each one does.
There is a lot of debate surrounding whether AHA or BHA is the better skincare ingredient. So let’s take a closer look at each to see which one reigns supreme.
AHA, or alpha hydroxy acid, is derived from natural sources such as fruits and milk. It works by gently exfoliating the skin to remove dead skin cells and reveal the healthy, new skin underneath. This makes it ideal for dry or sensitive skin, as it doesn’t cause any irritation. AHA also helps to improve collagen production, resulting in firmer, younger-looking skin.
BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is a synthetic compound that targets acne-causing bacteria while also exfoliating the skin. It can be a little harsher than AHA, so it’s best suited for those with oily or acne-prone skin. BHA is also known to help decrease the appearance of pores and blackheads.
Can vitamin C be used with AHA and BHA?
It’s no secret that vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can offer a bevy of benefits for the skin. But what about using it in conjunction with other skincare ingredients like AHAs and BHA? Is there any benefit to using them together, or could it potentially harm the skin? We’ll take a closer look at the research surrounding vitamin C and its compatibility with other skincare ingredients. Stay tuned!
No evidence using vitamin C will increase the effectiveness of AHAs or BHAs. In addition, combining vitamin C with AHAs or BHAs could cause irritation and skin damage. For best results, use products that are specifically formulated to work together.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one skincare solution, try a serum that contains both AHAs and BHAs. These ingredients can help improve the appearance of skin texture and reduce the amount of oil on your face. In addition, look for a serum that is lightweight and non-irritating, so it can be used daily without causing any irritation or skin damage.