AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) are two of the most common active ingredients in today's skincare routines. In the world of skincare, choosing between different acids can be confusing for many people. Each type of acid has its own characteristics and benefits, so the choice between AHA and BHA should depend on your skin condition and skincare goals. Today, let's explore which skin types are suitable for BHA and AHA.

Distinguishing the Use of AHA and BHA

AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and BHA (beta hydroxy acid) are two common acids in recent skincare products, and many people are still unsure about which ingredient to choose for skin care. Therefore, to use them for the right purpose and safely, it's essential to clearly distinguish between these two acids.

AHA (alpha hydroxy acid):

• Water-soluble, primarily works on the skin's surface.
• Capabilities:
  • Removes dead skin cells on the skin's surface, stimulating the cell renewal process.
  • Evens out skin tone, and can fade dark spots and freckles.
  • Softens and smoothes the skin, minimizing wrinkles.
  • Provides hydration and improves dry skin conditions.

BHA (beta hydroxy acid):

• Oil-soluble, commonly used in the form of Salicylic Acid.
• Capabilities:
  • Penetrates the pores, cleansing excess sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells.
  • Treats acne and prevents new breakouts.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties soothe the skin and reduce inflammation caused by acne.
  • Supports pore tightening.
  • Stimulates cell renewal and prevents skin aging.

Using AHA and BHA according to different skin conditions:

Choosing between AHA and BHA depends on your skin condition and skincare goals. Both acids have their benefits, so determine the specific needs of your skin to make an accurate decision.

Skin Types Suitable for AHA and BHA:

AHA is suitable for dry, sensitive skin and skin in need of brightening, improving aging signs, and uneven skin tone.

For oily skin, BHA is often a preferred choice. Products containing BHA can help control oil and reduce conditions like acne, inflammatory acne, redness, and large pores.

Consumer's choice:

• If you want to brighten your skin, reduce dark spots, and make your skin smooth, AHA might be a good choice.
• If you have issues with oily skin, acne, or large pores, and want a deep cleanse, BHA might be more suitable.

Should oily skin use AHA or BHA?

Oily skin often has easily clogged pores, leading to acne formation and the appearance of sebum. In the case of oily skin, to consider the suitability between AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid):

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid): Helps reduce oil secretion, removes excess sebum, and dead skin cells, and prevents clogged pores, helping reduce acne.

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid): AHA also can cleanse the skin and remove dead skin cells, but its impact is primarily on the skin's surface.

Therefore, if your skin produces too much oil, you may consider using BHA!

Should hidden acne use AHA or BHA?

When dealing with hidden acne, both AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) can soothe and reduce hidden acne conditions. However, AHA primarily acts on the skin's surface rather than deep into the pores like BHA.

BHA can penetrate deep into the pores, removing excess sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria that cause acne. This helps reduce bacteria and cleanses the pores, thereby reducing the risk of hidden acne and inflammatory acne.

In the case of hidden acne, BHA is often a preferred choice because of its ability to deeply penetrate and clean from the roots. However, combining both AHA and BHA can also be more effective. If you are experiencing severe hidden acne or see no improvement after a period of use, consult with a dermatologist to ensure you are using the products correctly and suitable for your skin.

Using AHA and BHA together:

Usually, AHA and BHA are not recommended to be used simultaneously because these are two acids with a high potential for irritation. However, if you must use AHA and BHA at the same time, consider the following:

Every person's skin has different characteristics. If your skin is sensitive or prone to irritation, using AHA and BHA at the same time can cause irritation and redness. Before combining them, try each type separately to ensure your skin does not react too strongly.

Dosage and time: When combining AHA and BHA, avoid using them at the same time as it can cause skin damage and increase the risk of irritation. Start with a low dosage and infrequent use. Then, you can gradually increase the dosage and frequency if your skin adapts well.

In summary, using AHA and BHA at the same time can be achieved if you truly understand your skin type, apply them correctly, and monitor your skin's condition during use. However, this should be done carefully to avoid irritation and adverse effects on the skin.