Skin naturally removes dead cells, but over time, as your skin ages, the process slows down. You might then need to introduce certain products to promote the exfoliation of the skin. For a long time, people have been using physical exfoliators like scrubs, packs, and other products that contain tiny granules. But studies show that physical exfoliation is neither enough for the skin nor harmless. It can make your skin rough and cause damage.
Chemical exfoliation is the new way to treat your skin. It is the use of acids to unclog pores and extract excess sebum from the skin. AHA BHA gel is the two kinds of products that are widely used for chemical exfoliation. While some different forms and products have these acids in them, AHA BHA gel and oils are the most commonly used ones. They are also considered to be the most effective.
If you are confused between aha bha gel and which one you should use, this article is meant for you. We aim to discuss these products and how they are different from each other.
How are AHA And BHA Good for Skin?
AHA BHA gel or oil is considered to be good for the skin because they are non-abrasive and do not cause damage to your skin in the process of exfoliation. These are both hydroxy acids. Both are present in toners, cleansers, scrubs, masks, peels, toners, and moisturizers.
AHA and BHA gels come in different concentrations. The mildest ones can remove dead skin cells only from the surface and the most concentrated ones may successfully remove the outermost layer. Both AHA BHA gel helps the skin in many ways.
- Hydrate skin
- It can reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
- Smooth skin
- Improves dull skin
- Improves uneven skin tone.
- Makes skin firm
AHA and BHA gels are not competition for each other. There is no question of which one is better. They work differently on different skin types and have similar purposes.
What are AHAs?
AHA or alpha-hydroxy acid is derived from plant sources like sugar cane. They are thus called fruit acids. Glycolic acid is the most common AHA and is used in several skincare products.
AHA works best for normal to dry and sun-damaged skin. They are capable of enhancing the moisture content of the skin naturally. It works best for dry skin and acne scars but will not help if you have recurring acne problems and it does not penetrate too deep into the skin.
Common Types of AHAs
Glycolic
Glycolic acid is made from sugar cane and is among the most common type. It has some amazing antimicrobial properties and can be great for all-around skin treatment. It is available in different forms and can be used twice or thrice a week in concentrated form and daily if included in regular skincare products.
Lactic
Lactic acid is made from the lactose found in milk. It has anti-ageing effects and is a good exfoliator for anyone who wants to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
It works great for your skin. Yoghurt and milk have been a part of skincare for a very long time due to their lactic acid content. But they often fail to give you bull’s eye results as they are not in controlled quantity and concentration. Your AHA serum or gel will give you the best of lactic acid without burning your skin or uneven skin tone.
What are BHAs?
BHAs or beta hydroxy acids are milder than AHAs and thus can be used more frequently. Your skin might need some time to adjust to it.
BHA is oil soluble and thus it does not concentrate only on the surface and can penetrate deep inside your skin. It works the best for normal to oily skin. If you are prone to blemishes, acne, bumps, and clogs, this could be a great option for you. It also contains soothing properties that can calm your skin and treat sensitive patches.
Common Types of BHAs
Salicylic Acid
It is the most common BHA and its concentration can vary between 0.5 per cent to 5 per cent. It is great for acne treatment and can also help in reducing inflammation and redness. And its concentration can vary between 0.5 per cent to 5 per cent. It is great for acne treatment and can also help in reducing inflammation and redness.
Salicylic acids work great for acne-prone skin.
Citric Acid
It is considered as a product that qualifies as both AHA and BHA. It evens out the skin’s pH level and dries out extra sebum to rid you of clogged pores.
Difference Between AHA BHA Gel
- Hydroxy acid works best for improving skin features among the two exfoliants.
- Salicylic acid will cause less irritation to your skin.
- BHAs increase your skin’s resistance to sun damage and have some antibacterial effects.
- AHAs are more aggressive.
Both AHA BHA gel works wonderfully on your skin and if you are still sticking to your old and abrasive ways of exfoliation, you must put an end to it. Select your chemical exfoliator carefully and enjoy the benefits.
