AHA & BHA Info
What Are AHA’s & BHA’s?
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are popular exfoliating agents in skincare. They help dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, promote cell turnover, and address various concerns like uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, and blemishes. Below is a quick guide to some key AHAs and BHAs found in our Pelactiv Medi Peel System.
Lactic Acid
A gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) often found in lotions, creams, peels, and serums.
Benefits:
- Exfoliation: Gently removes dead skin cells, improving texture
- Hydration: Attracts moisture to the skin
- Skin Tone: Improves hyperpigmentation and post-breakout marks
- Sun Damage: Helps reduce signs of sun damage like fine lines and wrinkles
- Sensitive Skin: Generally well-tolerated, making it suitable for sensitive skin
Malic Acid
A milder alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) known for gentle exfoliation.
Benefits:
- Exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells for a smoother complexion
- Anti-aging: May stimulate collagen, reducing the appearance of fine lines
- Skin Brightening: Helps reduce hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
- Hydration: Acts as a humectant to attract and retain moisture
- Gentle on Skin: Typically less irritating than stronger AHAs
Tartaric Acid
A natural alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) with exfoliating and antioxidant properties.
Benefits:
- Exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin
- Antioxidant Protection: Helps fight free radicals that contribute to aging
- Improved Texture: Reduces the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone
- Potential Acne Help: May assist in unclogging pores and reducing blemishes
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
What It Is: A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) well-known for treating acne and blemishes.
How It Works:
- Loosens the bonds between dead skin cells
- Unclogs pores
- Softens thickened or scaly skin
- Reduces redness and swelling
- Regulates sebum (oil) production
Citric Acid
What It Is: An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, limes).
Benefits:
- Exfoliation: Removes dead cells, unclogs pores, and refines texture
- Brightening: Fades dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage
- Acne Treatment: Helps reduce breakouts by removing excess oil and debris
- Antioxidant: Protects against environmental damage
- pH Balance: Supports a healthy skin moisture barrier
Glycolic Acid
What It Is: A powerful alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) known for deeper exfoliation.
Key Points:
- Exfoliation: Breaks down bonds between dead skin cells, refining texture
- Collagen Stimulation: Promotes cell turnover and may boost collagen
- Skin Concerns: Effective for fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne scarring
- Concentration Matters: Lower percentages (~10%) are suitable for most, while higher levels must be used cautiously to avoid irritatio
