Aha Vs Bha: What Are The Benefits Of This Blended Mix: Everything To Know

Written by Kinnari AsharJan 30, 2023
AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix: Everything to Know

Exfoliation is an essential step in any skincare routine. The removal of dead skin cells is important for maintaining glowing skin, facilitating other products to work better and keeping issues like dullness and patchiness at bay. And with consumers, craving to be more informed about what they put on their skin, the most popular form of exfoliation is chemical in nature, with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA) taking the top spot as go-to ingredients for the same. Let’s talk about the alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid benefits for your skin in this article. 

AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix: The Basics  

AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix | Everything to Know

AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHA (beta hydroxy acids) are both types of exfoliating acids that are commonly found in skincare products. They work by helping to remove dead skin cells and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. 

AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, are water-soluble and can penetrate the surface of the skin to exfoliate dead cells and promote cell turnover. This can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. AHAs also have moisturizing properties, which can improve the overall hydration of the skin and make it look plumper and more youthful. 

BHAs, on the other hand, are oil-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the pores to unclog them and reduce the appearance of blackheads and acne. Salicylic acid is a common BHA used in skincare products. BHAs also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation associated with acne. 

Both AHAs and BHAs can be effective at improving the overall appearance of the skin, but they work in slightly different ways and may be more beneficial for different skin types. While AHAs are generally better for those with dry or sensitive skin, BHAs are generally better for those with oily or acne-prone skin. 

AHA Benefits for Skin Care  

AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids work by exfoliating the surface of the skin, which can help to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. Some of the most common AHAs used in skincare products include glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and malic acid. 

Here are some of the benefits of AHAs for skin care: 

1. Exfoliates skin 

AHAs work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, which can help to remove them from the surface of the skin. This can leave the skin looking smoother, clearer, and more youthful. 

2. Brightens skin 

AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix | Everything to Know

AHAs can help to brighten the skin by reducing the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. They can also help to reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation. 

3. Improves skin texture 

AHAs can help to improve the overall texture of the skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. They can also help to minimize the appearance of pores, which can make the skin look smoother and more even. 

4. Boosts collagen production 

AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix | Everything to Know

Collagen is a protein that gives the skin its strength and elasticity. AHAs can help to boost collagen production in the skin, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

5. Moisturises skin 

Many AHAs have moisturizing properties, which can help to keep the skin hydrated and plump. This can make the skin look smoother, softer, and more youthful. 

6. Fights acne 

AHAs can also help in fighting acne by unclogging the pores and preventing the build-up of dead skin cells, oils and bacteria which cause acne. 

BHA Benefits for Skin Care  

BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is a type of exfoliating acid that is commonly found in skincare products. The most common BHA used in skincare is salicylic acid, which is derived from willow bark. 

BHAs, unlike AHAs, are oil-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the pores to unclog them and reduce the appearance of blackheads and acne.  

Here are some of the benefits of beta hydroxy acid for skin: 

1. Exfoliates skin 

AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix | Everything to Know

BHAs work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and the oils that hold them in place. This can help to remove them from the surface of the skin, leaving it looking smoother and more even. 

2. Unclogs your pores 

BHAs can penetrate deep into the pores to remove any buildup of oil, dirt and dead skin cells, which can cause blackheads and acne. This can help to reduce the appearance of these blemishes and leave the skin looking clearer. 

3. It is anti-inflammatory 

BHAs have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation associated with acne. This can make the skin look less inflamed and more even-toned. 

4. Treats acne 

AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix | Everything to Know

Salicylic acid, the most common BHA, has the ability to penetrate the pores and exfoliate the skin to prevent the buildup of oils and bacteria that can lead to acne. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. 

5. Improves skin texture 

BHAs can also help to improve the overall texture of the skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. 

6. Brightens skin 

BHAs can also help to brighten the skin by reducing the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation caused by excess melanin production. 

FAQs about AHA vs BHA: What are the benefits of this blended mix   

What is the difference between AHA and BHA? 

AHAs are water-soluble and can penetrate the surface of the skin to exfoliate dead cells and promote cell turnover. This can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. BHAs, on the other hand, are oil-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the pores to unclog them and reduce the appearance of blackheads and acne. 

Are there any alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid side effects on the skin? 

Both AHAs and BHAs can cause skin irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity if used in too high of a concentration or too frequently. It's important to use these acids in lower concentrations and to protect your skin with sunscreen when using them. 

Can I use AHA or BHA if I have sensitive skin? 

People with sensitive skin should be extra careful when using AHA or BHA, and it's always recommended to patch test and use these acids in lower concentrations after consulting a skincare professional. 

Kinnari Ashar

Written by

A beauty and food enthusiast with a decade of writing experience, Kinnari treats her skincare routine like a sacred ritual and views a gourmet meal as a daily necessity. Balancing her time between uncovering the latest beauty trends and taste-testing culinary delights, she’s always up for trying new products or savouring a delicious dish.
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