New Trend for Smooth Skin: AHA and BHA Acids

Recently, when we look at skin care products, we constantly encounter them. AHA and BHA acids, which have become indispensable for care routines for smooth skin, are in this article with all the details!

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHA), which are not an acid alone and express a group of acids, act as peeling for smooth skin, that is, they exfoliate the skin.

The top layer of the skin consists of dead cells and renews itself every 2 weeks. However, due to hormones, nutrition, ageing and even weather changes, the skin's self-renewal can slow down. When the skin is not exfoliated correctly, dead cells can fill the pores and cause blackheads, acne, dryness or wrinkles.

Exfoliation, also known as peeling, can be performed physically and chemically. While physical peeling is among the exfoliation methods that are not recommended because it can cause micro scratches on the skin surface, chemical exfoliation is recommended to prevent many skin problems such as cleansing the skin from dead skin, cleaning pores and blackheads, and preventing blemishes. AHA and BHA acids come to our aid to achieve a smooth skin by chemical exfoliation.

Let's take a closer look at AHA and BHA acids, their forms and benefits.

What are Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and What are the Benefits?

AHAs, which are obtained from fruits and soluble in water, are generally found in cosmetic products at 2, 10 or 20 percent, making the skin look more vibrant and healthy, preventing signs of aging, reducing the appearance of acne and blemishes.

What are the Types of AHA?

1. Glycolic Acid:

This acid, which is most commonly encountered in cosmetic products, is obtained from sugar cane. Glycolic acid, which has the smallest molecules among AHAs, easily penetrates the skin. It is used to reduce signs of aging and skin blemishes.

2. Lactic Acid:

Lactic acid, obtained from lactose found in milk, is the only AHA with both peeling and moisturising properties.

3. Mandelic Acid:

This acid obtained from bitter almonds is preferred to prevent acne and acne and to prevent skin blemishes. Since it has larger molecules than other types of AHA, it cannot penetrate deeply into the skin, thus causing less irritation.

4. Tartaric Acid:

Tartaric acid, produced from grapes and cherries, is mostly preferred in anti-aging care products with its antioxidant properties. It also helps other care products such as moisturisers to penetrate the skin better.

5. Malic Acid:

It is obtained from pears and apples. It contributes to cleansing the skin from dead cells, increasing moisture and reducing the signs of aging.

6.Phytic Acid:

Phytic acid obtained from rice stands out with its ability to prevent skin blemishes and equalise skin tone.

What are Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHA) and What are the Benefits?

Fat-soluble BHAs go deeper in the skin than AHAs and allow the skin to breathe. It shows beneficial effects on skin problems caused by oily skin. With the use of BHA, a more saturated, soft and moisturised skin welcomes us.

What are BHA Types?

1.Salicylic Acid:

Salicylic acid obtained from willow tree is the strongest and most widely used BHA. It mostly appears in acne and anti-acne products.

2.Hyaluronic Acid:

Hyaluronic acid, which is a complete moisture bomb, prevents the negativities caused by dryness and dryness by trapping moisture in the skin. It helps the skin look fuller and more vibrant.

3.Oleic Acid:

Also known as Omega-9 fatty acid, it is a type of BHA found in vegetable oils such as olive oil, avocado, almond. It undertakes the task of repairing the skin, moisturises and prevents signs of aging.

4.Linoleic Acid:

It is known as Omega-6 fatty acid. Like oleic acid, it is used to moisturise the skin and to make the skin supple and young.

Bonus Citric Acid

Citric acid is a type of acid obtained from citrus fruits and supports collagen in the skin. This acid, which is both AHA and BHA, prevents signs of aging and removes dead cells. It is preferred for problems such as acne and tone inequality.

When should AHA and BHA be used?

If you are in trouble with sun or acne spots, you can choose products containing AHA. AHA acids work on the top layer of the skin and contribute to the purification of this layer from dead cells. If you complain of blackheads, pimples or large pores, you can purify the oil that clogs your pores by choosing products containing BHA.

Things to Consider When Using AHA and BHA

We have learnt that including AHAs and BHAs in the care routine will benefit the skin and help us to achieve the desired skin appearance. However, misuse and overdose of these acids can lead to undesirable results on our skin. You can include these acids, which are not suitable for direct use, in your skin care through cosmetic products. At the same time, if these ingredients are used, you should definitely make a habit of using sunscreen.

What is the Importance of Sunscreen in Acid Use?

Since AHA and BHAs act as peelers on the skin, the skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight and more susceptible to staining. High-protection sunscreen protects fresh skin free from dead skin and prevents sun spots.

Products Containing AHA and BHA

Since you have so much information about AHAs and BHAs, we seem to hear you say ‘I should immediately include a product containing AHA and BHA in my routine!’. Meet Esqulent Dual Effect Cleasing Gel, Foaming Deep Cleanser Face & Body, Peptide Anti Acne Cream containing clinically proven AHA and BHA!