AHA vs BHA
AHA vs BHA: What is the difference?
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) are both types of chemical exfoliants commonly used in skincare products. Both have the ability to improve the health and appearance of the skin. However, they vary in terms of the skin concerns they address:
1 | Chemical Structure
AHA: Alpha Hydroxy Acids are water-soluble acids derived from various natural sources such as sugarcane, milk, sugar, and apples. Water soluble acids dissolve in water and interact with the hydration levels of the skin.
BHA: Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil-soluble acids, such as salicylic acid are typically derived from willow bark or synthetically developed. Oil soluble acids only dissolve in oil and interact with the skin’s oils and other oily substances.
2 | Depth of Penetration
AHA: AHAs are water-soluble, and work primarily on the skin’s surface to remove dead skin cells, promoting anti-aging, smoothness, and a more even complexion.
BHA: BHAs are oil-soluble, allowing them to penetrate deeper into pores. BHAs are particularly effective for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin types. BHA’s dissolve excess oil, clear out clogged pores, and reduce oiliness.
3 | Exfoliation
AHA: AHAs are effective in removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, leading to improved texture, reduced fine lines, and a more even skin tone.
BHA: BHAs also exfoliate the skin’s surface, but their unique property of oil solubility allows them to get into the pores, helping to prevent and treat blackheads, whiteheads, and acne breakouts.
4 | Skin Concerns
AHA: AHAs are great for addressing sun-damaged, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and surface-level imperfections. They can provide a gentle exfoliation suitable for most skin types, except for very sensitive or reactive skin.
BHA: BHAs are particularly useful for those with oily, acne-prone, or congested skin. They help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation associated with acne and rosacea. BHAs can also be helpful for individuals dealing with blackheads, whiteheads, and congestion.
5 | Sensitivity
AHA: Some AHAs can be slightly irritating to sensitive skin, especially when used in higher concentrations or for those not accustomed to chemical exfoliation.
BHA: BHAs are generally milder and better tolerated by sensitive skin compared to AHAs. Salicylic acid, the most common BHA, has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm irritated skin.
Professional Peels
Your skin care professional will ensure your skin type and specific concerns are considered when choosing between AHA vs BHA acid for your treatment. In some cases, your technician will use both acid types in your treatment, alternating them on different sessions to get the benefits of both acid types. Overall, Acid Peels are a tried-and-true method for treating various conditions and delivering lasting results.
This is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and is made up of the smallest molecules compared to others.
Do not let the molecule size fool you though, glycolic acid is a powerhouse in terms of performance. This acid exfoliates the outermost layers of skin but also has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin and stimulate cell turnover. Glycolic acid works from the inside out which provides a plumper appearance. Think lighten, brighten and tighten.
Yes you guessed it, this acid is milk-derived and is also an AHA. Lactic acid is wonderful for hydration, brightening and the best choice for those with sensitive skin. This is one of the more gentle peels and a great option for beginners or those who are not a candidate for more aggressive peels.
This is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) and is derived from willow bark. This acid is made up of a larger molecular size which means it works on the outer layers of skin. This acid is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory making it the top choice when dealing with acne, redness and oily skin. We like to think of this acid like Pac-Man running along the surface of the skin gobbling up dead skin cells and breaking through oil.
and begin your journey to fresh smooth skin!
Love, Peace, and Great Skin!
Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885-7108
dermica.ca