What is Salicylic acid/BHA?
Salicylic acid is an extremely popular ingredient that many people swear by. It's found in countless products that combat dull and wrinkled skin, lighten uneven pigmentation, but perhaps most importantly: it's extremely effective against blemish-prone skin and acne. This acid composition can be a little complicated, but it is precisely the structure that can explain why and how it works so well!
When it comes to skin care products, acids are classified into two categories, namely Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA). Both AHA and BHA have an exfoliating effect on the skin. They break down the bonds between dead skin cells, and the top layer is removed. This promotes cell renewal and helps counteract the accumulation of waste in the pores. Fine lines are reduced, acne breakouts are reduced, and pigmentation is evened out.
Products with AHA/BHA:
COSRX AHA / BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner is an exfoliating toner with AHA, BHA and cleansing botanical ingredients. It removes dead skin cells and gives dull skin more luster and liveliness.
Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner is an exfoliating toner that balances the skin's natural pH and moisturizes the skin. It removes dead skin cells, has a deep cleansing effect, reduces impurities and visible pores.
AHA is water soluble and dissolves bonds between dead skin cells on a more superficial level. In this category we find glycolic acid and lactic acid (lactic acid). They retain moisture well, smooth the skin's surface while stimulating natural collagen production and reducing hyperpigmentation. They work great for dry and mature skin.
BHAs are fat-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the skin because they can dissolve and pass through the lipid (fat) layers that surround skin cells. In this category we find salicylic acid. In addition to their significant anti-inflammatory properties, they also bind to sebum that can clog pores and thus remove it through exfoliation. The acid is also antibacterial and may have some effect on inflamed acne.
Products with AHA/BHA:
Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum is a highly concentrated serum that reduces impurities and helps keep acne under control. It strengthens the skin barrier and adds generously with moisture!
COSRX One Step Original Clear Pads are soft pads moistened with essence containing BHA, Salix Alba, allantoin and panthenol. Perfect for oilier skin types that easily get impurities and acne.
Salicylic acids are most effective against blackheads, which are also often called blackheads and whiteheads. It has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin and counteract the accumulation of sebum and dead skin cells that can lead to impurities and pimples. There are different strengths of acids. Most products for home use have such a low percentage that they are safe to use and cause little irritation. Those with a higher percentage can be strong enough to immediately cause redness and peeling of the skin.
BHA has many positive properties and is very suitable for oilier skin types. However, it should be noted that overuse or sensitive skin may result in adverse effects such as redness, dryness and flaking. The combination of BHA and AHA enables effective treatment of impurities without drying out the skin.