Journal

Ever wondered why your skin sometimes looks dull and tired, no matter what products you use? Turns out, the key to glowing skin lies beneath the surface—literally! Let's talk about AHAs & BHAs, your skin’s secret weapon against aging, clogged pores, and a lackluster complexion.
~ Juhi Dubey

Our skin naturally sheds dead cells every day as part of its renewal process. However, Many people aren’t aware of how essential regular exfoliation is for maintaining skin health, especially as we age. With age and exposure to environmental factors like unprotected sun exposure, this process slows down or may even come to a halt. When this happens, dead skin cells build up on the surface, leading to dull, rough skin, clogged pores, and an overall lackluster complexion. This is where ingredients like AHAs and BHAs come in, helping to mimic the skin’s natural exfoliation process and reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion. In this blog, read about:

What Are AHAs? 

What Are BHAs? 

Differences Between AHAs and BHAs

Are They Good for Your Skin?

Who Should Use It?

What Are AHAs? 

AHAs, or Alpha Hydroxy Acids, are a group of exfoliating ingredients that work to remove dead skin cells from the surface. They can be naturally derived from sources like plants or milk, though most of the AHAs in skincare products are created in labs for better stability. Common AHAs include lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids. Regular use of AHAs can offer benefits like:

• Increased hydration
• Reduced appearance of sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles
• Improved skin tone and reduced dark spots
• Enhanced absorption of other skincare products by removing dead cells

What Are BHAs?
The most well-known BHA is salicylic acid. Like AHAs, BHAs exfoliate the skin, but their oil-soluble nature allows them to penetrate deep into the pores. Regular use of BHAs can help:

• Reduce clogged pores
• Minimize blackheads
• Soothe redness and sensitivity
• Control excess oil

What Are The Differences Between AHAs and BHAs

AHAs are water-soluble and work on the skin’s surface, making them ideal for normal to dry, sun-damaged skin. They help boost natural hydration and reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and crepey skin.

On the other hand, BHAs are oil-soluble and work both on the surface and within the pores, making them better suited for normal to oily skin that’s prone to congestion, blackheads, and enlarged pores. BHAs also have calming properties, making them great for sensitive or redness-prone skin, including conditions like rosacea.

Are They Good for Your Skin?
Yes, both AHAs and BHAs are excellent for your skin due to their non-abrasive exfoliating action. They work by breaking the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, encouraging natural cell turnover. This helps maintain a healthy skin barrier, protecting it from environmental stressors.

Who Should Use It?

Quick FAQs:

Q. Can I mix AHAs and BHAs together?
Yes, you can use AHA and BHA together! Combining them can tackle multiple skin concerns like sun damage, wrinkles, and clogged pores. You can alternate between them or use a product that blends both. Just keep an eye on your skin to avoid over-exfoliation.

Q. Do they damage my skin?
Nope! When used correctly, they’re like giving your skin a gentle nudge to shed those dead cells and reveal a fresh glow.

Important:

• Avoid using AHA and BHA together daily, your skin needs time to adjust. Instead, alternate between them or pick a gentle formula that combines both for regular use.
• To avoid irritation, choose well-formulated products that are free from ingredients like fragrance and harsh alcohol, all while keeping a pH level between 3-4 for optimal results. Explore our range of AHA and BHA products at Aminu, carefully formulated to be effective and gentle for all skin types.
  

To read more about exfoliants click here.

References:
[1] Cosmeceutical Uses and Benefits of Alpha, Poly and Bionic Hydroxy Acids - 22 November 2013
[2] Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, April 2004, pages 76-87
[3] The science of hydroxy acids: mechanisms of action, types and cosmetic applications, 29 Sep 2013
[4] Clinical and cosmeceutical uses of hydroxyacids - September–October 2009, Pages 495-501
[5] Journal of the German Society of Dermatology, July 2012, pages 488–491