AHAs and BHAs: The Skincare Acids to Know For a Great Complexion
AHAs and BHAs are the biggest skincare ingredients to lean on if you want clear, glowing skin. These exfoliators are also known as Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids, and incorporating them into your routine a few times a week will ensure that your skin is smooth, radiant and blemish-free. Want to find out more about these wonder ingredients? Then keep scrolling.
What are AHAs in skincare?
Alpha Hydroxy Acids are either naturally-derived or synthetic and they work to exfoliate the upper layers of the skin. The two most popular AHAs are Glycolic acid that is the 'gold standard' AHA. It can effectively exfoliate the skin, but also helps your complexion better hydrate itself. Then there is lactic acid, the molecules are slightly larger so it works slower than Glycolic but is better suited to sensitive skins.
AHAs should be your go-to if you want more radiant skin and fewer fine lines and wrinkles.
What are BHAs in skincare?
Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil-soluble which means they can drive into sebum filled pores to exfoliate deep down to prevent and repair blemishes.
Salicylic Acid is the most well-known BHA, what's more BHAS have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory so they should be your BFF if you suffer from breakouts.
Scroll down for our favourite skincare buys that contain AHAs and BHAs.
Ren Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic, €32 is an incredible daily toner, formulated with Lactic Acid (AHA) and Salicin (BHA), that leaves skin radiant. Lactic Acid effectively exfoliates the skin's surface, breaking up dead cells and replacing moisture. Salicin from Willow Bark helps pores appear tighter and skin appear smoother every day.
Lixirskin Night Switch BHA/AHA 10% is a serum that exfoliates the surface of the skin and deep down into pores so you wake up to a radiant, refined and smoother complexion.
An everyday go-to, Freck's Cactus Water Cleansing Lactic Acid Toner, €27, is a hydrating and exfoliating toner contains lactic acid and cactus water. It also has kelp that is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe and protect the skin.
