BHAs
BHAs, or Beta Hydroxy Acids, are a type of exfoliating acid that work to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and improve the overall texture and tone of your skin. Here, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of BHAs, exploring their benefits, how to use them, and answering some commonly asked questions.
What are BHAs?
BHAs are a type of exfoliating acid that works by dissolving the glue that holds dead skin cells together, allowing them to be easily sloughed away. They are oil-soluble, which means they can penetrate deep into your pores to unclog them and reduce the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads.
The most commonly used BHA in skincare is salicylic acid, which is derived from willow bark. Salicylic acid is highly effective at treating acne-prone skin, as it not only unclogs pores but also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the appearance of redness and irritation.
Other types of BHAs include betaine salicylate, which is gentler than salicylic acid and suitable for sensitive skin, and tropic acid, which is a newer form of BHA that has been shown to have potent anti-aging properties.
Benefits of BHAs
There are many benefits to incorporating BHAs into your skincare routine. Some of the most notable benefits include:
- Unclogging pores: As mentioned, BHAs work to dissolve the glue that holds dead skin cells together, allowing them to be easily sloughed away. This helps to unclog pores, reducing the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads.
- Reducing inflammation: BHAs have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the appearance of redness and irritation. This makes them particularly effective at treating acne-prone skin.
- Improving texture and tone: By removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, BHAs can help to improve the overall texture and tone of your skin, leaving it looking brighter and more radiant.
- Anti-aging: Tropic acid, a newer form of BHA, has been shown to have potent anti-aging properties. It works by increasing collagen production, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Skin Types Suited to BHAs
BHAs are generally suitable for most skin types, but they are particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the different skin types that can benefit from BHAs and why.
Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, BHAs can be a game-changer. BHAs are oil-soluble, meaning they can penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve oil and unclog them from the inside out. This can help to reduce the appearance of blackheads, whiteheads, and other types of acne.
In addition to their pore-clearing benefits, BHAs also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. BHAs can also help to regulate oil production, making them a great choice for those with oily skin.
Aging and Sun-Damaged Skin
BHAs aren’t just for acne-prone skin. They can also be beneficial for those with aging or sun-damaged skin. This is because BHAs have the ability to exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing brighter and more youthful-looking skin underneath.
BHAs can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve skin texture and tone. BHAs work by stimulating cell turnover, which can help to promote the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
Combination Skin
If you have combination skin, you may also benefit from incorporating BHAs into your skincare routine. BHAs can help to regulate oil production in the T-zone while still providing gentle exfoliation for the rest of the face.
BHAs are also effective at dissolving excess sebum, which can help to prevent breakouts and keep the skin looking balanced.
Dry and Sensitive Skin
While BHAs are generally suitable for most skin types, those with dry or sensitive skin should use them with caution. BHAs have the potential to cause dryness and irritation, particularly if used in high concentrations or too frequently.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, it’s important to start with a lower concentration of BHA and work your way up if necessary. It’s also important to always follow up with a moisturizer to prevent dryness.
How to Use BHAs
Now that you know the benefits of BHAs, you may be wondering how to incorporate them into your skincare routine. Here are some tips:
- Start slow – If you’re new to BHAs, start with a lower concentration and work your way up. This will help your skin adjust to the acid and reduce the risk of irritation.
- Use in the evening – BHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to use them in the evening. Be sure to wear sunscreen during the day to protect your skin.
- Don’t overdo it – While BHAs can be incredibly effective, it’s important not to overdo it. Using them too frequently or at too high a concentration can lead to irritation and dryness.
- Follow up with moisturiser – BHAs can be drying, so it’s important to follow up with a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated.
Simplifying... BHAs
- BHAs are a type of exfoliating acid that can be beneficial for a wide range of skin types, including oily, acne-prone, aging, and sun-damaged skin.
- BHAs work by unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, improving skin texture and tone, and even have anti-aging properties.
- However, those with dry or sensitive skin should use them with caution, starting with a lower concentration and working their way up.
- When using BHAs, it’s important to start slow, use them in the evening, not overdo it, and always follow up with a moisturiser to prevent dryness.
- BHAs are a versatile and effective ingredient that can be a valuable addition to any skincare routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
While BHAs are suitable for most skin types, those with sensitive or dry skin should use them with caution. It’s important to start with a lower concentration and work your way up, and to always follow up with moisturiser to prevent dryness.
This will depend on your skin type and the concentration of the BHA you are using. It’s generally recommended to use BHAs 2-3 times a week, starting with a lower concentration and working your way up if necessary.
It’s generally not recommended to use BHAs in conjunction with other exfoliating acids, such as AHAs or retinol. This can lead to over-exfoliation and irritation.
Learn More
The content on Simplifying Skincare is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. To learn more about BHAs, some helpful resources are listed below. If you have any concerns about your skin or overall health, please consult with a licensed healthcare professional.