What Is The Difference Between AHA And BHA In Skin Care Products?

Illustration (Kalos Skincare / Unsplash)

JAKARTA - If you often pay attention to the ingredients in skin care products, you must be familiar with the terms AHA and BHA. But do you know what they mean and what are the benefits for the skin?

Usually these AHAs and BHAs are found in products such as exfoliating toners or serums that function to exfoliate dead skin cells and rejuvenate the skin. It can also be found in moisturizing products, masks, peels, scrubs, and face washes. Then, what is the difference between AHA and BHA? Here's the explanation.

AHA

AHA stands for alpha hydroxy acid which is a group of naturally occurring acids, such as citric acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and mandelic acid.

In general, AHAs are good for the outer skin layer or epidermis and the inner skin layer called the dermis. Usually people use products with AHA content to exfoliate dead skin cells.

AHA content is safe for those of you who have acne skin, dry skin, even skin that has started to wrinkle. This acid can stimulate the production of collagen which can combat fine lines and make the skin more supple.

Not only that, AHAs can also make skin tone more even and treat sun damage that makes dull and dark spots.

If you use a product with an AHA, make sure you use sunscreen during the day because your skin usually becomes more sensitive to the sun.

Keep in mind that not everyone is suitable for using AHAs because there are risks of irritation, itching, redness, and burning. It is important to consult a doctor or try it slowly for adaptation.

BHA

BHA or beta hydroxy acid is different from AHA is that there is only one type of acid, namely salicylic acid. This acid can dissolve in fat and can penetrate into the pores so that the results are more leverage.

In products to treat acne, BHA works to fight bacteria and treat acne scars until they disappear. In fact, BHA can also be used to treat warts. If you have wrinkled, rough, oily skin, lots of blackheads, and full of freckles, you can try using products that contain BHA. After use, the skin will feel smoother and smoother. The difference with AHA, BHA is lighter so the risk of skin irritation is lower.