A Skincare Guide to Beta Hydroxy Acid or BHA

When people refer to BHA or beta hydroxy acid, they are usually referring to salicylic acid, a common and effective topical treatment for acne or dandruff. But there are is more to BHAs or beta hydroxy acids than just salicylic acid or acne. So what exactly is BHA or beta hydroxy acid and what makes it such a notable topical? This guide explains the benefits, side effects, different types of beta hydroxy acids, and offer some recommendations for beta hydroxy products for skin and scalp problems.

Lactic acid or glycolic acid

Both lactic acid and glycolic acid are alpha hydroxy acids. Glycolic acid is considered to be the stronger of the two, but stronger doesn’t always equal better. Both lactic acid and glycolic acid can be used at different concentrations to effectively target a host of skincare issues, from improving acne or skin texture, reducing fine lines and discoloration, and reversing sun damage and aging symptoms.

Chemical or Physical exfoliant – Which one is better for my skin?

Ever wondered why you had bouncy skin when you were young? In our younger years, the dead skin cells on our skin’s surface shed quickly, just every few days, and new skin came to the surface. Over time and as we age, this turnover rate slows down. By exfoliating your skin regularly, you can get rid of those top layers of dead skin for better skin texture and complexion. 

A Skincare Guide to AHA or Alpha Hydroxy Acid

AHAs are popular ingredients in skin care products for acne, anti aging, or just general moisturizers, but rarely do these products also educate you about how to use an AHA, the benefits they offer or their side effects. AHAs are potent and if you use them without proper care for your skin, they can result in more damage than their intended benefits. This guide explains the benefits, side effects, different types of alpha hydroxy acids, and offer some recommendations for best performing AHA products for skin problems.

Glycolic acid vs salicylic acid

Both glycolic acid and salicylic acid are hydroxy acids, but they can be used to tackle different skin issues. They each lightly exfoliate, penetrate the skin and are considered to be active ingredients that should be used with care. And using them properly and regularly can yield fast and long lasting results in skin texture and complexion.