Know the Differences and Benefits of AHA BHA

AHA vs. BHA: What It Is and Benfits of AHA and BHA Serum

  • By JUHI ZAVERI

Learn the difference between AHA and BHA and how they benefit your skin. AHAs exfoliate the surface while BHAs penetrate pores, helping with acne.

Regarding skincare, we often hear about the benefits of using AHAs and BHAs. But what exactly are these two types of acids, and how do they differ?

What is AHA?

AHA stands for Alpha-Hydroxy Acid. These are water-soluble acids derived from milk, fruit, and sugar cane. The most commonly used AHAs in skincare are glycolic acid and lactic acid. AHAs are known for exfoliating the skin's surface by eliminating dead skin cells and revealing brighter, smoother skin.

What is BHA?

BHA stands for Beta-Hydroxy Acid. The most common BHA in skincare is salicylic acid, which is oil-soluble. BHAs are known for penetrating deep into the pores, unclogging them and reducing the appearance of acne and blackheads.

Difference between AHA and BHA


AHAs

BHAs

AHAs are water-soluble.

    BHAs are oil-soluble.

    Exfoliates dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

      Penetrates deeper into the pores to exfoliate dead skin cells and sebum.

      Great for dry skin types.

        Great for oily, acne-prone skin types.

        Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.

          Helps reduce the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads.

          Best used at night time.

            Can be used during the day and night.

             

            Glycolic and lactic acid are common types of AHAs.

              Salicylic acid is the most common type of BHA.


              AHA BHA serum

              AHAs and BHAs can often be combined in skincare products, such as AHA BHA serums. These serums are designed to provide the benefits of both acids, exfoliating the skin's surface while penetrating deep into the pores to clear out any buildup.

              AHA skincare

              AHAs can be found in various skincare products, such as toners, masks, and serums. They are often recommended for those looking to improve the texture and appearance of their skin, as they can help reduce the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

              Benefits of AHA serum:

              • Exfoliates the skin's surface, removing dead skin cells and revealing brighter, smoother skin.
              • Lessens the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
              • Can help to improve the texture and overall appearance of the skin.
              • It can be more gentle on the skin compared to BHA, making it a better option for those with sensitive or dry skin.
              • Can be used on a variety of skin types, including normal, dry, and mature skin

              BHA skincare  

              BHAs are usually found in acne-fighting skincare products, such as cleansers, toners, and serums. They are known for unclogging pores and reducing the look of acne and blackheads.

              Benefits of BHA serum:

              Penetrates deep into the skin, unclogging pores and reducing the appearance of acne and blackheads.

              Reduces inflammation and redness associated with acne.

              Helps to regulate excess oil production, making it a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

              Can be used on a variety of skin types, including normal, oily, and combination skin.

              Improves the overall texture and the look of the skin, similar to AHA serum.

              Can I Use AHAs and BHAs Together? 

              If you want to leverage the power of AHAs and BHAs together, might we recommend adding Foxtale’s Exfoliating Serum to your vanity? It contains Glycolic Acid that exfoliates dullness to bestow a renewed glow on the skin. Moreover, Salicylic Acid at the forefront dislodges grime and excess sebum in the pores to tackle concerns like whiteheads, blackheads, and acne.  

              What Makes Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum Different?   

              Unlike other AHA BHA serums, Foxtale’s inventive formula is extremely gentle. It doesn’t cause any burning or stinging on application and helps elevate overall skin health. Other reasons to swear by this serum.

              1. It contains Hyaluronic Acid, a powerful humectant that binds water molecules to the skin, ensuring sustained hydration.  

              2. The efficacious serum carries Niacinamide that blots excess sebum and prevents clogged pores. Moreover, the skincare workhorse preserves your skin’s hydration and bolsters barrier health.  

              3. The non-sticky and quick-absorbing formula makes your skin smooth and soft from the very first use.  

              How Often Should I Use Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Formula 

              We know that exfoliation helps dissolve dead cells, debris, and dirt to reveal a smooth, radiant surface. So, how often should you exfoliate? Experts suggest that exfoliating 2 to 3 times a week should suffice.  

              It is not recommended to use the formula daily. Daily use leads to over-exfoliation, which makes your skin feel stripped or uncomfortably tight. 

              How To Make The Most Of Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum?  

              To make the most of Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum, here’s how you can add it to your weekly skincare rotation.

              1. Cleanse first: Use a gentle, pH-balancing formula to clear dirt, grime, and dead cells from the skin. Cleansing (as the first step) ensures better absorption of your serums and treatments. 

              2. Treat: Dab your skin dry and apply a few drops of the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. Use a light hand to apply the formula to avoid stress or strain on the skin. 

              3. Moisturize: After the serum absorbs into the skin, use a generous amount of moisturizer to seal this treatment. 

              4. Sunscreen: Since AHAs BHAs cause photosensitivity in some individuals, use a generous slather of a potent sunscreen the following morning..

              Conclusion:

              AHAs and BHAs are both effective types of acids that can improve the overall look and health of the skin. While they have some similarities, their solubility and how they work on the skin differ. Choosing Foxtale’s AHA BHA exfoliating serum for your skin type and concerns can help you achieve your desired results. Enriched with salicylic acid paired with niacinamide reduces any irritation caused by exfoliating agents. Also, another additional benefit, the glycolic and hyaluronic acid provide a clear and smooth goddess glow.

              FAQs

              1.Can AHA and BHA be used together?

              Yes, AHA and BHA can be used together in a skincare routine. However, it is important to use them in the correct order to avoid irritation. Typically, BHAs are used first to penetrate the pores, followed by AHAs to exfoliate the surface of the skin.

              2.Are there any side effects of using AHA and BHA?

              Both AHA and BHA can cause skin irritation if used in excess or if the concentration is too high for your skin type. It is important to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase it over time to avoid irritation.

              3.Which is better for sensitive skin, AHA or BHA?

              AHA is generally better for sensitive skin because it works on the surface of the skin and is less likely to cause irritation. However, it is important to patch test and start with a lower concentration to avoid any adverse reactions.

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