Whether you are fighting dullness, enlarged pores or active acne – a potent AHA BHA serum can guarantee visible results for your skin. This formulation helps dissolve dirt, dead cells and debris (or any kind of buildup possible) to ensure a clean, bright surface that is shy of texture. 

Still wondering whether to add an AHA BHA-based serum into your routine? You have landed on the right page. This blog introduces you to skincare acids (Alpha Hydroxy Acid and Beta Hydroxy Acids), lists their many benefits and busts the myths surrounding their use. 

What Are AHAs?  

AHA (or Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are active ingredients that slough off your skin’s outermost layer. You can use these acids to improve your skin’s texture, fight ageing lines and fade dark spots. Some of the most common AHAs are Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid.  

Glycolic Acid: Glycolic Acid boasts small molecules, making it easier for the ingredient to pass through the lipid barrier. 

What Are BHAs?  

BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acids are ingredients that dislodge buildup from deep inside the pores. These actives are oil soluble unlike their counterparts a.k.a. AHAs. Some of the most popular BHAs are Salicylic Acid, Tropic Acid and so forth. 

Salicylic Acid: The oil-soluble active possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and astringent properties. 

The Best AHA BHA Serum 

Naturally, an Aha Bha serum braces you with the best of both worlds, targeting numerous skin concerns. If you believe your skin deserves the best (like we do), try Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum for your skincare rotation. The innovative, gentle formula contains Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid that remove buildup for a renewed glow. Here are all the reasons why this serum is a must-have for your vanity  

1. Oil Control: Salicylic Acid in the high-performing serum cuts excess sebum for a balanced microbiome. If you have oily skin, this serum should be on your radar.  

2. Minimizes Pores: Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide in the formula prevent clogged pores, minimizing their appearance.  

3. Treats Whiteheads, Blackheads And Acne: Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid remove dirt, debris and dead cells, reducing clogged pores. This helps prevent pesky whiteheads and blackheads. Additionally, Salicylic Acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it the perfect remedy for active acne.  

4. Ensures A Bright Surface: Glycolic Acid exfoliates your skin’s outermost layer and cues healthy cell turnover. Use the serum to enhance your skin’s glow overnight.  

5. Fades Acne Spots And Blemishes: Salicylic Acid possesses mild astringent properties and reduces acne spots.  

6. Hydration For The Skin: Unlike several AHA BHA serums, our formula is extremely gentle. It doesn’t dry out the dermis, not even in the slightest. Moreover, Hyaluronic Acid in the serum ensures sustained hydration for the skin. 

7. Upholds Barrier Health: This non-drying and non-tingling formula promotes a healthy barrier. Niacinamide in the creamy serum bolsters the lipid barrier and doubles down on hydration by preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. 

When Should You Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum?

Now that you are well-versed in the many benefits of the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum, it’s time to add it to your skincare. A rookie mistake (committed by most seasoned enthusiasts) is using the serum daily. That’s right. Using the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum thrice a week at night works wonders for your skin. 

Why Should I Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum At Night? 

While there are no hard and fast rules, we recommend using the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum at night. Here’s why  

1. At night, your lipid barrier (or acid mantle) is more permeable, allowing treatments or serums to percolate deeper with much ease.  

2. Your skin has a circadian rhythm. This means that the skin prioritizes repair and regeneration when you are getting some shut-eye. Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum helps in this endeavour by shedding dead cells and ensuring healthy turnover.  

3. The topical use of the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum generates new skin cells. However, continued exposure to the sun can damage these cells, accelerating skin ageing. Therefore, it is recommended that one use the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum at night. 

Can I Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum Daily? 

No. Although our AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum is gentle and soothing – you shouldn’t reach out for it more than thrice a week. Using the serum daily can lead to over-exfoliation which zaps natural oils from the dermis. It can make your skin dry, and uncomfortably tight and even cause inflammation. 

What Skin Types Need The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum? 

Another misconception about exfoliating serums is that only people with oily or acne-prone skin need it. This couldn’t be further from the truth. All skin types, be it dry or sensitive, demand regular exfoliation. This process not only helps steer clear of the above skin concerns but also ensures better absorption of your serums (like vitamin c serum) and moisturizers. 

What Is The Best Way To Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum?

Use the following steps to integrate Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum into your weekly skincare  

1. Start With Cleanser: Use the Acne Control Face Wash to dislodge dirt, grime and debris from the pores. Salicylic Acid at the heart of the formula blots excess oil, shrinks acne and soothes inflammation. Alternatively, if you have dry (or sensitive skin), try the Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) and Red Algae Extract that improve your skin’s water-holding abilities.  

2. Apply The Treatment: After dabbing your face dry, use 2 to 3 pumps of the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. Be cautious around sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth. Always use a light hand to avoid any strain on the skin.  

3. Moisturize And Seal: Next, use a suitable moisturizer to help seal in the treatment and hydration. For dry and sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramides. Alternatively, for oily and combination skin, try the Oil Free Moisturizer.  

4. Sun Protect, Following Morning: Don’t skimp on sunscreen the next morning. A potent sunscreen forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing photoaging, pigmentation, burns and tanning.