AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) are chemical exfoliants that remove the build-up of dead skin cells to leave you with smoother skin. Exfoliation is necessary to target ageing, sun damage, dark spots and acne, offering a gentler alternative to exfoliation using a scrub or cleansing device. Together these two acids hydrate the skin, treat fine lines and stimulate collagen production for firm and evenly textured skin.
WHEN TO USE AHA
If your principal concern is sun damage AHAs will exfoliate the uppermost layers of skin to target the issue. Normal to dry skin will benefit from AHAs that help bind moisture and smooth skin, offering hydration. These acids have also been show to build collagen – ideal for those with ageing concerns.
If you’ve got acne-prone skin, blackheads of enlarged pores BHAs are your best bet. These acids can penetrate the oil that’s clogging everything up, not just exfoliating the skin surface, but inside your pores too. BHAs work well with normal to oily skin because these acids have a tendency to dry skin out. They also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND AHA AND BHAs?
The tricky thing about AHAs and BHAs is that they may not be called that on your products. Perhaps you’ve heard of Salicylic Acid, which in small concentrates is used to treat acne? Well Salicylic Acid is in fact a BHA. And, Glycolic Acid for spot-fighting and Lactic Acid for moisturising dry skin, are common AHAs.
Note - just because acids are exfoliants doesn’t mean that these ingredients are only found in exfoliators. You can find a combination of AHAs and BHAs in the Ecollagen Wrinkle Smoothing Serum. A product clinically proven to target fine lines, boost collagen and improve radiance.
