When it comes to removing dead skin and revealing a fresh, even glow, chemical exfoliants are unrivalled in efficacy. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) make up the vast majority of commercially available chemical exfoliants (BHAs). As you'll see below, each serves a slightly different purpose and addresses different skin issues in a slightly different way.
What Alpha Hydroxy Acids are and how they function?
You can find Alpha Hydroxy Acids in foods like fruit, milk, and sugar cane. They are mild enough for daily use, but effective enough for occasional deep cleansing. Several of the most common AHAs are listed here: glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, and citric acid.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a type of chemical that is soluble in water and can be used to exfoliate the skin by loosening the top layer of dead cells. Basically, the loose bonds between our skin and its dead cells are broken down by an AHA, allowing our body to shed them. When applied topically, AHAs have been shown to increase dermal thickness, despite the common misconception that they thin the skin. You can use AHAs regardless of your skin type, in most cases.
Can AHA's improve skin disorders?
Acne, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone can all be improved with the help of alpha hydroxy acids.
What beta hydroxy acids are and how they function?
When discussing beta hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, which is found in willow bark, is almost always mentioned. To the contrary of their name, BHAs are more robust than AHAs and are oil-soluble.
Whereas alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) exfoliate by loosening dead skin cells, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) exfoliate dead skin cells within our pores, removing dirt and debris from deep within. They work best when used first in a skincare routine because they prepare the skin's pores to take in the rest of the treatment.
Except for extremely sensitive skin types, BHAs are generally safe for everyone to use.
Can BHA's improve skin disorders?
They work within the pore to loosen the bacteria and debris that cause breakouts, BHAs are frequently used in the treatment of acne and breakouts. ILM Purifying Mousse Cleanser is our go-to because it is a mild yet effective cleanser formulated with salicylic acid, a beneficial beta hydroxy acid.
They work well in tandem with AHAs to deep clean the pores as well as the skin's surface. Formulated with glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid, iLM Purifying Toner are an excellent AHA + BHA combination that works to eliminate acne and enhance the skin's overall appearance.
AHAs and BHAs make your skin more sensitive to the sun, just like retinol and benzoyl peroxide. While you should always use an SPF, it is especially important to do so in the mornings before going outside. Choose a daily moisturiser that includes sunscreen.
Comments