Skin Care
Like many people, you probably value acids for their ability to renew skin and boost its natural glow. Exfoliating acids—AHAs and BHAs—are go-to ingredients for clearing away dead skin cells and revealing a brighter, smoother complexion. They’re among the most used exfoliants. A newer option, PHAs, is also gaining attention because it brightens skin without irritating sensitive or reactive types. Read on to learn how AHAs, PHAs, and BHAs differ and which might suit your skin best.
Key Takeaways:
– Different exfoliating actions: AHAs, PHAs, and BHAs are chemical exfoliants that remove dead skin cells. AHAs work on the surface, BHAs reach deeper into pores, and PHAs are gentler for sensitive skin.
– Skin benefits: These acids can improve texture, reduce signs of aging like fine lines and uneven tone, and help manage acne by clearing pores.
– Picking the right acid: Choose AHAs for dry skin, BHAs for oily or acne-prone skin, and PHAs for sensitive skin.
Table of Contents
Jump to…
– What Are AHAs?
– What Are PHAs?
– What Are BHAs?
– How AHAs, PHAs & BHAs Differ
What Are AHAs?
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) help speed up exfoliation by loosening the “glue” that holds dead skin cells to the surface, which encourages faster cell turnover. Common AHAs include glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids, among others. Lactic acid is usually the mildest and most hydrating, making it a good option for many skin types and less likely to cause irritation.
AHAs are water-soluble, so they don’t pass through the skin’s oils. That means they mainly work on the skin’s surface to treat dryness, dullness, and signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. You’ll find AHAs in exfoliants, toners, cleansers, and body products.
What Are PHAs?
Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are gentle acids related to AHAs. Common examples are gluconolactone and lactobionic acid. Like AHAs, PHAs are water-soluble and act on the skin’s outer layer, but they exfoliate more slowly and gently, making them a good choice for sensitive skin. They’re less likely to cause irritation, dryness, or sensitivity.
Dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban has noted that people with sensitive or reactive skin tend to tolerate PHAs more easily, and PHA products can be safer for conditions like rosacea or eczema compared with some AHA and BHA treatments.
PHAs also help protect skin from environmental damage, improve hydration, and smooth texture, which makes them suitable for dry skin too.
What Are BHAs?
BHAs also break down the bonds between dead skin cells, but because they’re oil-soluble they can penetrate into pores and oil glands. This lets BHAs clear blocked pores and reduce the buildup that can cause breakouts, making them ideal for acne-prone and oily skin.
Salicylic acid is the most common BHA used in skincare. In addition to helping prevent breakouts, BHAs can improve uneven texture and address fine lines and wrinkles.
How AHAs, PHAs & BHAs Differ
All three acid types help remove rough, dry skin and restore a healthy glow, but they work a bit differently.
– AHAs are best for non-sensitive, dry, or dull skin because they exfoliate the surface and boost moisture.
– BHAs suit oily and acne-prone skin since they penetrate pores to remove blockages and reduce bacteria.
– PHAs provide a gentler, slower exfoliation, so they’re the top choice for sensitive or reactive skin.
Knowing which acid fits your skin type can speed up your progress toward clearer, healthier-looking skin. If you’re unsure, consult an esthetician at your preferred Eminence Organics Spa Partner to find the right option for you.