What Are AHA's & BHA's, & why do i need them in my skincare?

There are so many different types of products and one that I get asked about is AHA's & BHA's, so I thought I'd write a short blog to help you ladies.

Firstly they are both exfoliating acids (means helps shed surface dead skin cells) but target different issues.

AHA's Alpha Hydroxy Acids are a group of naturally occurring water soluble, exfoliants found in citric acid from citric fruits, lactic acid from milk and glycolic acid from sugar cane.

TARGETS & BENEFITS - They target issues of dullness, dryness uneven texture, acne and signs of ageing ( as we age our skin cell turnover slows so in your 20's it takes 24-30days, 30's 28-35, 40's 30-42 & 50's+ 45-84 days). They breakdown the glue that hold dead skin cells on the surface of our skin therefore allowing the dead skin cells to shed and reveal a brighter, smoother skin. They stimulate cell turnover, promoting the growth of new skin cells which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and reduce pigment patches (hyper pigmentation). Also if you are investing in good skincare products you want them to sink in not be absorbed by dead skin cells!

SIDE EFFECTS - AHA's can sometimes cause mild side effects like redness, burning or irritation if in high concentrations so start with a gentle concentration of 10% or less and work up.

BHA's Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil soluble acids that unclog blockages and help prevent blemishes. Found in willow trees, salicylic acid, wintergreen leaves and sweet birch.

TARGETS & BENEFITS - BHA's are oil soluble so can target blackheads, whiteheads (milia) & spots by breaking down the hard sebum & dead skin cells deep within the pore to unblock.

SIDE EFFECTS They have antibacterial effect especially good for people prone to breakouts and acne and are also less aggressive than AHA,s so less side effects, although we are all unique so if you do have any reactions always stop usage and seek GP advice.

In conclusion both AHA and BHA exfoliate the skin, both help repair sun-damaged skin and keep pores clean just choose the one most appropriate to your personal concerns. When using either products its always good practice to use a SPF30 to protect the newly revealed skin cells and keep hyperpigmentation and premature ageing at bay.

I Hope you found this blog informative. Carole x