Though one sounds like a Norwegian band from the 80s, these two go hand in hand to do great things for your skin, but in two different ways.
AHA and BHA are exfoliants. It's that plain and easy. We build up dead skin on our faces and as we age, it gets harder and harder for our skin to shed itself, so we need to use exfoliants to help us out. Using AHA and BHA as chemical exfoliants helps restore your skin's soft, hydrated condition.
AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acid and is a chemical exfoliant best suited for dry skin. Products with AHA in them peel away at the surface of your skin, leaving more refreshed, evenly pigmented skin that will feel smooth to the touch. Predominantly made of Glycolic acid (sugar cane), it may also help prevent breakouts.
BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acid and is better suited for oily skin. It is an oil-soluble product and can dig deeper into the skin and remove sebum. Both separate and dislodge the bonds of dead skin that's holding on to your skin's surface and that's essentially why we love them.
Removing old skin helps restore a firmer, more hydrated You. You will also notice a diminished look of lines and wrinkles, your skin will be less dull, more smooth, and less bumpy.
You can find AHA's and BHA's in a variety of products such as scrubs, peels, cleansers, toners, masks, and moisturizers. Be sure to wear sunscreen if your beauty routine incorporates AHA's and BHA's. If you want to use them together, you can do so, but use them on alternating days so that you don't dry your skin out or cause irritation from over-exfoliation. Or, if you're especially diligent, you can use either acid on certain parts of your face only.
That's the scoop on AHA and BHA's. Next time you're in, let us show you the power of these 6 little letters, ask all your questions. Feel free to Take On Me (get it?!).
Your Confidence is my Business,
Shannon
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