Best AHA and BHA Products of 2023
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) are two types of chemical exfoliants commonly used in skincare products. Glycolic Acid is one of the most common AHAs and is derived from sugar cane, whereas Salicylic Acid is the most common BHA.
AHA work on the skin's surface and are effective at exfoliating the top layer of dead skin cells, whereas BHA are oil-soluble, BHAs can penetrate oil-clogged pores, making them especially effective for treating acne and blackheads.
AHA vs BHA
Is it better to use AHA or BHA?
Depending on your skin type, concerns, and tolerance, you may want to use both AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) products or pick just one. Here are some factors to consider:
a. Using Both AHA and BHA
Combination Skin. Using both AHA and BHA can be helpful if you have combination skin, where some parts are oily and prone to breakouts and benefit from BHA while other areas are dry or have texture issues and benefit from AHA. Apply them to the specific areas where they are most needed.b. Using Only AHA
Dry or Sensitive Skin. Due to the fact that it mostly exfoliates the skin's surface rather than penetrating deeply into pores, AHA is typically better tolerated by people with dry or sensitive skin. It can help with problems including fine wrinkles and an uneven skin tone and enhance texture.
c. Using Only BHA
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin. BHA usually works well on people with oily or acne-prone skin. It penetrates into pores and exfoliates both the inside and outside, which can help reduce inflammation, blackheads, and acne breakout.
Ultimately, your skin's specific needs and sensitivities will determine whether you should use both AHA and BHA or just one. It's a good idea to consult a dermatologist or skincare expert who can make personalized recommendations based on your specific concerns and goals.
Best AHA and BHA Products
Here are some tips before using AHA and BHA products:
- Patch Test First: Before using any new skincare product, do a patch test to check for any adverse reactions or sensitivities.
- Always Follow Instruction: Begin with clean, dry skin. Follow the product's label instructions carefully, for instance some AHA and BHA products suggest using them no more than twice a week for 10 minutes per application.
- Apply at Night: Because AHA products can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, it is usually best to use them at the evening as part of your nighttime skincare routine. Moreover, ensure you apply sunscreen with adequate SPF protection every morning, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin from UV damage.
- Hydrate and Moisturize: Exfoliating products can sometimes be drying, so be sure to use a hydrating and moisturizing skincare routine to keep your skin balanced and healthy.
1. The Ordinary Peeling Solution 30ml AHA 30% + BHA 2%
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution exfoliates multiple layers of the skin for a brighter, more even appearance. With the help of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), beta-hydroxy acids (BHA), and a studied Tasmanian pepperberry derivative, which reduces irritation that can be associated with acid use, this at-home peel helps even skin texture, clear pore congestion, and improve uneven pigmentation.
The formula is further supported with a crosspolymer form of hyaluronic acid for comfort, pro-vitamin B5 for hydration, and black carrot for added protection.
Note: This formula contains an extremely high concentration of free acids. We recommend use only if you are an experienced user of acid exfoliation and your skin is not sensitive.
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 - more than 37,020 global ratings
This stuff works so well My face has cleared up so good. I broke out really bad and I was trying so many different products to clear up my skin and this one was the only one that worked and blemishes vanished in a few weeks
2. COSRX AHA/BHA Treatment Toner
This treatment toner makes daily exfoliation possible with its mild AHA/BHA formulation. It mainly contains white willow extract and apple water which are abundant in nutrients beneficial to the skin. The gentle peeling process this clarifying toner offers makes it possible for the nutrients to effectively and fully penetrate the skin for optimum results. After washing your face, spray an appropriate volume of the toner onto a cotton pad. Gently sweep the damp cotton pad all over the face and pat it gently to allow better absorption.
- Maintains skin's optimal pH level, keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.
- Formulated with minimum ingredients to be gentle on sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, cruelty free, parabens free
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 - more than 5,350 global ratings
This product save my skin, I will forever repurchase because it is worth it. It’s safe for my skin, doesn’t give me any irritation or rashes, I have oil acne-prone skin so it’s quite sensitive. And this product clear my skin and give me such smooth skin! Please try it if you are considering!
3. SOME BY MI - AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum
Highly concentrated tea tree serum that changes the condition of your skin in just 30 days. Actively soothes and calms irritated damaged skin. Diminishes the appearance of blemishes. Removes stubborn dead skin cells. Shrinks pore size for a smooth complexion. AHA sloughs off dead cells and impurities on the skin's surface. BHA removes impurities and sebum inside pores. PHA prevents moisture loss. Dermatologically tested.
- Exfoliation, Stronger skin barrier, Trouble soothing, & Double moisture lock-in
- Contains 10,000ppm of natural tea tree extracts
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 - more than 1,400 global ratings
I have a lot of acne scars and I get those pesky pimples on a pretty regular basis. I got this because I’ve gotten into Korean skin care. This works great! I will say though, make sure you apply it right after your toner. If you don’t use toner, then right after you wash and dry your face. I wasn’t doing that for awhile and saw no results. But now that I’m using it properly my acne marks have faded so much. My skin seems really radiant! And it’s SUPER gentle. I have extremely sensitive skin and this didn’t bother it at all!!! I wish I could find before pictures for you all, but believe me when I tell you that it’s made a HUGE difference
Best AHA Products
Here are some tips before using AHA products:
- Choose the Right AHA: Choose an AHA product that is appropriate for your skin type and issues. For example, glycolic acid may be effective for people with normal and oilt skin types becuase it can penetrate more deeply into the skin layer. Meanwhile, lactic acid is an exfoliant that is on the milder side, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.
- Apply at Night: Because AHA products can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, it is usually best to use them at the evening as part of your nighttime skincare routine. Moreover, ensure you apply sunscreen with adequate SPF protection every morning, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin from UV damage.
- Limit Frequency: Start with 1-3 times per week and gradually increase as your skin is able to handle it. Avoid using AHA products every day, especially if you're new to exfoliating acids.
1. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant with Glycolic Acid Chamomile & Green Tea
SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel is a completely non-abrasive, leave-on exfoliant that gently and naturally helps shed built-up layers of dead skin, just like your skin did when you were younger. This unique formula revitalizes skin’s surface, creates noticeable radiance, smooths the appearance of wrinkles, and makes your skin look and feel remarkably soft. With ongoing use, it can help promote firmer-looking skin.
- This exfoliant has an optimal pH range of 3.5–3.9.
- Revitalizes uneven skin tone
- Smooths the appearance of wrinkles
- Weightless gel texture perfects skin’s surface
Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 - more than 3,200 global ratings
I love this brand-everything I've used has been absolutely excellent, and if you're familiar with Paula Begoun-she knows what she's talking about and I don't believe she'd put out a crap product. I've used this on normal/combination skin. I make sure not to use it if skin is irritated, but I've used it on some atopic dermatitis with no issue.
I always layer a really good moisturizer over the top. That is the key to help dry or winter skin with an AHA-always use a moisturizer (learned that from reading Paula's books and transcripts from her podcast!). AHA is also super helpful for evening tone and getting rid of hyperpigmentation or scars. It also helps with wrinkles because it gets rid of the shedded skin lying in the wrinkle and making it more obvious. ALWAYS use a sunscreen, esp. with any exfoliants!!
2. Alpha Skin Care Renewal Serum Concentrated with 14% Glycolic AHA
Our unique anti-aging serum is specially formulated with the optimal balance of 14% Glycolic Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and a ph level of 3.7 It is also free of parabens and fragrances. It works naturally to gently lift away dead skin cells so new healthy skin can emerge and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Immediately your skin will feel smooth, fresh and healthy and over time.
It works naturally to gently lift away dead skin cells so new healthy skin can emerge and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Immediately your skin will feel smooth, fresh and healthy and over time.
Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 - more than 3,800 global ratings
I never had acne or cystic pimples until I had to wear a mask all day. My dry, sensitive, 40yr old skin was ravaged and I was left with mild, red scarring. It was mild and pretty easily covered with full makeup, but I prefer not to wear makeup most of the time and I felt I couldn't do that anymore. I tried many products and had a full cycle of chemical peels. This product has helped more in 1 week than all of the others combined. It's affordable too!
Best BHA Products
Here are some tips before using BHA products:
- Choose the Right BHA: Depending on your skin type and concerns, pick a BHA product with the right concentration. In skincare, salicylic acid is the most widely used BHA.
- Apply in the Morning or Evening: Depending on your preferences, BHA products can be used in both morning and evening routines. They can help you manage oil throughout the day if you use them in the morning.
- Use as a Spot Treatment: If you have isolated acne breakouts or blackheads, you can use a BHA product as a spot treatment on the affected areas.
- Start Slow: If you're new to BHA, begin with a lower concentration and gradually increase the frequency of use to prevent overexfoliation.
- Avoid Mixing with Other Strong Actives: Using BHA in the same routine as other powerful actives like retinoids can increase the possibility of irritation. Consult a dermatologist for advice on how to incorporate multiple active ingredients safely if you want to.
1. Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
With 2% BHA (beta hydroxy acid), to unclog & diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone. Combats redness, wrinkles, aging, enlarged pores, and blackheads.
- Hydrate, brighten & smooth fine lines
- Delivers hydration & can exfoliate directly inside the pore & improve how the pore works.
- No fragrance, no parabens, no fluff.
Ratings: 4.4 out of 5 - more than 88,700 global ratings
I've been going back and forth with this product because of its price but once I tried the smaller size, I'm never going back. I have large pores below my eyes and I've tried many toners and exfoliators to help reduce them. Some worked but nothing compared to this product. I went back to buy the bigger bottle because it worked amazing. It's important to know that I have combination skin with a preference on the oily side, so I don't have sensitive skin. It was irritating at first but my skin got use to it very fast. As long as you're consistent, you will see results!
2. Honeyskin % BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Face
Honeyskin’s Liquid Facial Exfoliator is a quick-absorbing BHA Exfoliant that gently exfoliates dead skin cells while helping clear clogged pores & acne. This exfoliating toner also helps restore your skin’s natural protective barrier.
Formulated with some of nature’s most powerful ingredients—Aloe Vera, Manuka Honey, Witch Hazel, Willow Bark Extract & more—this 2% BHA toner & skin exfoliator for face balances your skin's pH level while soothing, moisturizing & nourishing your skin.
I have skin that can be sensitive to toners, but this works! Feel very fresh and not dry after using 😊
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