AHAs / BHA

AHA skincare refers to skincare products that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) as their active ingredients to support chemical exfoliation. AHAs are a group of naturally occurring acids derived from fruits, milk, or sugar cane. Some common AHAs used in skincare include glycolic acid (derived from sugar cane), lactic acid (found in sour milk and yogurt), citric acid (from citrus fruits), malic acid (from apples), and tartaric acid (from grapes).

BHA skincare refers to skincare products that contain beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) as their active ingredients to support chemical exfoliation. The most common BHA used in skincare is salicylic acid. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are water-soluble, BHAs are oil-soluble, meaning they can penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve excess oil and unclog pores.

O Cosmedics offers a range AHAs and BHA skincare products that are formulated to suit every skin type. These next generation, clever and gentle chemical exfoliation superstars work to dissolve the desmosomes (glue) that holds dead skin cells together (leaving skin looking aged, dull and tired) to improve the skin’s surface texture, tone, product penetration and ultimately leave the skin radiant, vibrant and healthy. BHA skincare is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial helping to unclog pores, reduce pore size and treat acne through gentle chemical exfoliation, revealing smoother, brighter skin with improved skin texture and tone. BHA skin products also exfoliate the skin through chemical exfoliation, and work to improve skin texture, brighten skin tone, kill bacteria, remove hyperpigmentation and reveal fresh, clean and smooth skin.

Determining whether to use an AHA or BHA, or both, depends on your specific skin type, skin conditions and your individual concerns and goals. AHA skincare is suitable for most skin types, however, particularly good for congested, rough, bumpy and pigmented skins. Individuals with concerns such as dullness, rough texture, sun damage, and signs of aging may benefit from incorporating AHA skin products into their skincare routine. BHA skincare is particularly suitable for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types due to their ability to penetrate deep into pores and unclog them whilst killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Individuals with concerns such as acne, blackheads, whiteheads, enlarged pores, and oily skin may benefit from incorporating BHAs into their skincare routine. Some individuals may benefit from chemical exfoliation by using both BHA and AHA skin products in their skincare routine, especially if they have multiple skin concerns, such as congestion, thickened skin, sun damage and stubborn hyperpigmentation. If using both AHAs and BHAs, it's essential to introduce them gradually into your routine and alternate their usage to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation.

Choose BHA and AHA skin products with formulations suitable for your skin type and concerns. For example, if you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for gentler formulations with lower concentrations of acids if at all, it is best for a dry or sensitive skin to replenish its moisture and lipid levels before exfoliating with acids, often enzyme exfoliation is a better choice for a dry and sensitive skin. Before incorporating AHAs, BHAs, or both into your skincare routine, it's essential to patch-test new products and start with lower concentrations to assess how your skin reacts. Additionally, using sunscreen daily is crucial, especially when using exfoliating acids, to protect your skin from sun damage and sensitivity.

For guidance on finding the best aha skincare and bha skincare products for your skin as well as tips on chemical exfoliation, visit your nearest O skin clinic or start a live chat on our website with an O Skin Expert.

Using BHA and AHA skincare for chemical exfoliation can benefit your skin at any age or stage. However, the ideal time to incorporate BHA and AHA skin products depend on your skin's specific needs and concerns. We generally recommend using BHA and AHA skincare at the early signs of congestion, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, acne, blackheads and whiteheads. While AHAs and BHA skincare can benefit individuals of all ages, they are typically more commonly used by adults and teens going through puberty as their hormone levels can increase skin and oil production leading to congestion. For teenagers dealing with acne and oily skin, BHA skincare like salicylic acid can be particularly beneficial when used as chemical exfoliation. However, it's essential to start with lower concentrations and introduce them gradually to avoid irritation, especially for younger, more sensitive skin. Ultimately, there's no specific age or timeframe for introducing BHA and AHA skincare into your routine. Listen to your skin's needs, observe any changes or concerns and adjust your routine accordingly.

Incorporating both BHA and AHA skin products into your routine can provide comprehensive chemical exfoliation and address various skin concerns. Start by cleansing the skin with your favourite O cleanser (which itself may contain AHAs), then apply your corrector serums including any AHA and BHA serums, layering from thinnest to thickest consistency. Follow up with your O hydrator to seal in the hydration and eye care products if using any. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen during daytime!

Pairing AHA and BHA skincare products with compatible skincare actives can enhance their effectiveness and provide additional benefits for your skin. Here are some skincare active ingredients that pair well with AHA and BHA skincare:

• Vitamin C - Vitamin C is an antioxidant that brightens the skin and helps protect against environmental damage. When used alongside BHA and AHA skin products, it can provide additional skin-brightening benefits while hydrating and plumping the skin.

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) - Niacinamide is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with BHA and AHA skincare, it can help improve the skin's barrier function, reduce redness, and minimise the appearance of pores.

• Hyaluronic Acid - Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, helping to hydrate and plump the skin. Pairing hyaluronic acid with AHA and BHA skincare can help counteract any potential dryness or irritation caused by exfoliation.

• Peptides - Peptides are amino acids that help stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin elasticity. When paired with BHA and AHA skincare, peptides can enhance the skin's firmness and hydration, promoting a more youthful complexion.

When combining BHA and AHA skin products with other skincare actives to support chemical exfoliation, it's essential to patch-test new products and introduce them gradually into your routine. Start with lower concentrations and increase frequency as tolerated to minimise the risk of irritation or sensitivity.

At O Cosmedics, we use L-Lactic Acid and Amphoteric Hydroxy Complex (AHCs - a combination of low irritant AHAs) and Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHAs - new generation AHAs with a greater tolerance for sensitive skins) derived from botanical sources for a hydrating effect to support chemical exfoliation, as well as improving texture and tone by removing excess dead cells. Encapsulated Salicylic Acid, with a unique controlled delivery system that delivers actives on a cellular level to sustain benefits over an extended period of time, has the ability to penetrate into the pores dissolving blockages and congestion to improve the look and feel of the skin.