BHA, AHA and PHA, may sound like a nursery rhyme but the truth is far from it. This exfoliating acid is one of the ingredients that are essential in everyone’s skincare routine. Although it is not well known compared to its sister, AHA, it doesn’t make it any less effective. Whenever we hear the word acid, it triggers negative connotations but a true beauty junkie would know that it equals a magical mantra. In case you haven’t heard, exfoliating is the crux of skincare and it is actually the key for you to have a radiant complexion. As much as you want to use highly rated beauty products, sometimes adding the right ingredients into your skincare routine is all that you need. Frankly, not all of us are chemists or able to know each of the scientific ingredients in the label. However, there are a few things that you should know if you truly want to amp up your skincare game. Enter, beta hydroxy acids or commonly known as BHA the ultimate exfoliator for your skin.

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

It helps to slough off dead skin cells, revealing a brighter complexion and it is highly effective to combat decongest pores as well as preventing acne

Who should use it?

As it primarily helps to minimize breakouts, BHA is perfect for those with acne-prone skin and sensitive skin

How to use it?

Unlike AHA, you can use products with BHA on a daily basis unless stated in the label. However, it is important to not overuse the ingredient to avoid any potential side effects. Once you decided to incorporate BHA into your skincare routine, remember to be careful and avoid mixing it with other active ingredients like retinol or even vitamin C. It can actually cause more breakouts and irritation.

What is Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)?

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Beta hydroxy acids or BHA is a form of exfoliating acid that is commonly found in beauty products. Chemically it is known as carboxylic acids. There are several ingredients that are categorized as BHA, namely salicylic acid, tropic acid, trethocanic acid and beta-hydroxybutanoic acid. However, the most common ingredient of BHA that is used in skincare products is salicylic acid. What sets it apart from AHA is the structure of the chemical compounds. In fact, Beta hydroxy acids have the ability to penetrate deeply into the skin as they are oil soluble. Hence, it makes them highly effective for those with oily or even acne-prone skin. They are truly the wonder ingredient that can regulate sebum production and even combat acne for good.

Primarily, people get easily confused as they’re not sure which exfoliating acids they should use. Is it AHA or BHA? Well, the rule of thumb is to take into account your skin type. If you have acne prone, oily or even sensitive skin, it is recommended that you opt for BHA. Whereas people with dry skin will find that the AHA ingredient suits them perfectly. You can even use them both but on alternating days. Nevertheless, it actually depends on the compatibility too. You can try them out first and see which one delivers visible improvements.

What are the Benefits of Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)?

Indeed, AHA is at the forefront of exfoliating acids, but we can’t deny that BHA is equally important too. Previous research has shown that BHA is more effective than AHA in terms of minimizing the signs of ageing and even smooth out the skin. Plus, it doesn’t cause any potential irritation that is usually associated with AHA. Ahead, we have listed the benefits of using BHA which may even entice you to test it out.

  • It is known for soothing properties
  • Able to penetrate deeply into the skin
  • Regulates excess sebum
  • Helps to decongest the pores
  • Prevent and treat acne including blackhead and whitehead
  • Minimizes breakouts
  • Gently remove dead skin cells

What are the Side Effects of Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)?

As much as we want to say all the positive things with beta hydroxy acids, there are always side effects. Remember to do a patch test whenever you try out products with BHA in them. As beta hydroxy acids are a form of exfoliating acids, they can cause potential side effects like irritation and even dryness. Therefore, you can consult with your dermatologist to know the suitable frequency or even know if such an ingredient is compatible with your skin or not.

Best Products that are Formulated with Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)

1.Cosrx Bha Blackhead Power Liquid

Cosrx Bha Blackhead Power Liquid is a cult favourite product that is highly rated for its efficacy and results. Formulated specifically to combat blackheads and even acne, it helps you to attain flawless and blemish-free skin. It is infused with a powerful blend of ingredients including willow bark water to gently slough off dead skin cells. Plus, it is super gentle to the skin and doesn’t cause any irritation.

Why we love it:

  • Prevents blackhead
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Slough off dead skin cells

Price: $19.90 (Original price $23.90)

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2. SKINGO! Gentle Scrub

If you prefer a combination between AHA and BHA, you need to get your hands on the SKINGO! Gentle Scrub. Thanks to the AHA, BHA and jojoba beads, it delivers triple action of exfoliating benefits to the skin. Unlike other facial scrubs, this product doesn’t cause any irritation or dryness. In fact, it is gentle enough for those with sensitive skin. With consistent usage, you will notice that your skin looks more radiant and supple than before.

Why we love it:

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • It combines both AHA and BHA
  • Doesnt dry out the skin

Price: $29.00

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3. BANILA CO Clean It Zero Toner Pad Pore Clarifying

Do you want to amp up your skincare game? Well, it only takes BANILA CO Clean It Zero Toner Pad Pore Clarifying. It is soaked with all the goodness that your skin needs including LHA, BHA, AHA, and tea tree leaf extract. It gently eliminates dead skin cells, leaving you with a brighter complexion. Besides, it also helps to minimize the appearance of the pores.

Why we love it:

  • Helps to purify the skin
  • Gently remove dead skin
  • Decongest the pores

Price: $39.90

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