From the Guidelines
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) and AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) are chemical exfoliants commonly used in skincare products, with salicylic acid being a common example of BHA and glycolic acid being a common example of AHA, as noted in the guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris 1.
Key Points
- Common examples of BHAs include salicylic acid, betaine salicylate, and willow bark extract, with salicylic acid typically used in concentrations of 0.5-2% in over-the-counter products.
- Examples of AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, citric acid, and malic acid, with glycolic acid typically used in concentrations of 5-10% and lactic acid at 5-12% in consumer products.
- These acids work differently, with BHAs penetrating oil-clogged pores making them ideal for acne-prone skin, while AHAs work on the skin's surface to improve texture, reduce fine lines, and enhance brightness.
Recommendations
- When beginning use, start with lower concentrations 1-2 times weekly, gradually increasing frequency as tolerance builds.
- Always apply sunscreen during daytime use as these acids can increase sun sensitivity.
- The use of BHAs and AHAs can be beneficial in the treatment of acne vulgaris, as noted in the guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris 1.
Important Considerations
- The effectiveness and safety of topical agents, including BHAs and AHAs, in the treatment of acne vulgaris have been evaluated in various studies, with the most recent and highest quality study being the guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris 1.
- The guidelines conditionally recommend the use of topical agents, including BHAs and AHAs, in the treatment of acne vulgaris, based on the available evidence.
From the FDA Drug Label
This plant based formula contains Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid for a gentle chemical exfoliation Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid. This product contains an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun The alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) examples are:
- Glycolic Acid
- Lactic Acid The beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) example is:
- Salicylic Acid 2
From the Research
Examples of BHA and AHA
- BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) examples include:
- Salicylic acid, which has been used to treat various skin disorders for more than 2,000 years 3
- AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) examples include:
- Glycolic acid
- Lactic acid
- Malic acid
- Tartaric acid
- Citric acid, which are often used extensively in cosmetic formulations 4