Table of contents:
- The difference between AHA and BHA that must be understood
- What needs to be considered before choosing AHA and BHA products
- How to use the right product?
- Can I use AHA and BHA products together?
Previously, you may be very unfamiliar with AHA and BHA. However, after skin care Korea began to mushroom, the popularity of AHA and BHA began to be widely known. However, not everyone understands the difference between the two. For more details, I will discuss the differences between AHA and BHA in more detail.
The difference between AHA and BHA that must be understood
Before buying a product, either a toner or another, here are the differences between AHA and BHA that you need to understand:
Content
AHA stands for alpha hydroxy acid. The AHA contains several compounds such as glycolic acid (from sugar cane), lactic acid (from milk), malic acid (from apples), and citric acid (from oranges). AHAs are water-soluble acids.
While BHA stands for beta hydroxy acid. In the medical world of dermatology, BHA is equated with salicylic acid. So, unlike AHAs which contain many compounds, BHA only contains one compound. In addition, BHA is also insoluble in water but in oil or fat.
Uses
AHAs have the ability to damage the outermost layer of skin (stratum corneum). The goal is to stimulate the growth of new, healthier skin. In addition, AHAs also help increase the amount of collagen so that the skin is more supple and elastic. Therefore, AHAs are usually widely used in anti aging cream products.
Meanwhile, BHA is generally able to enter the skin pores to remove accumulated dead skin cells and excess oil. Therefore, BHA is usually suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Side effects
AHA and BHA including substances that are irritating in nature so that they can irritate the skin if used inappropriately. For that, you really need to know how to use it by reading the instructions for use first.
Skin problems that can be handled
As previously explained, AHAs are used to treat various skin problems related to aging. For example, uneven skin tone and texture and fine wrinkles on the skin. Meanwhile, BHA is suitable for treating various oily and acne-prone skin problems.
What needs to be considered before choosing AHA and BHA products
Do not carelessly choose AHA or BHA products. When choosing the right AHA product, for example, you have to look at the concentration of the product. The reason is, each skin has a different threshold for AHA concentrations.
Do not let you buy products with too high a concentration because it can irritate the skin. Therefore, it would be much better if you first consult a skin and genital specialist (Sp. KK).
The same rules apply when you want to buy BHA products. You must first know what type of acne you have. The reason is, this is related to the level of BHA concentration that should be purchased.
If your pimples are still mild or are still in the form of blackheads, you can buy low concentrations of BHA products that are widely available in the market.
However, if the acne is already inflamed and festering, you need a high concentration of BHA. However, this one product cannot be purchased in the market and can only be obtained based on the permission of an expert doctor.
How to use the right product?
Both AHA and BHA must be used appropriately. However, this actually depends on the type and skin problem of each person so it cannot be generalized. But generally, AHA products that are sold freely in the market have a concentration of 5 to 10 percent.
This product can usually be used once a day for several weeks. If your face has begun to adapt and does not cause negative effects, you can increase its use up to two times a day.
Don't forget, always use sunscreen in the morning and afternoon so that facial skin is well protected and AHA and BHA products can work optimally.
Can I use AHA and BHA products together?
AHA and BHA can be used simultaneously. Although the contents are different, they have almost similar properties. The striking difference is only in its solubility. Even now, there are many products that combine both AHA and BHA.
However, because they are both exfoliators, don't use both AHA and BHA at the same time. Use interchangeably, for example using AHA in the morning and BHA at night.
You can also use it alternately everyday, for example today AHA then tomorrow BHA. Alternatively, use AHA products on dry facial skin areas and BHA on oily skin if you have combination skin.
After knowing the difference between AHA and BHA, don't make the wrong choice of products. If you are still confused about which product is suitable, you can consult a specialist first.
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