What are BHAs?
BHAs are a magic ingredient in any skincare directed at deep cleansing pores and for spot-prone skin or acne.
BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acid. You have probably (definitely if you have been reading my blog) heard of AHAs - Alpha Hydroxy Acids, which include glycolic acid and lactic acid - and both are excellent for exfoliating skin, but the main difference between AHAs and BHAs is that BHAs are oil-soluble.
Why is this important? Being oil-soluble means they can be absorbed deeper into the skin through the skin’s own naturally produced oils. Once absorbed, they get to work helping clear out pores, exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells, dirt and oil build-up. This is particularly useful for oily, spot-prone skin and for those who suffer from acne.
What kinds of BHAs are there?
There are a few types of BHAs but by far the most commonly used in skincare is salicylic acid, which is the one I have chosen for my products aimed at supporting my customers who suffer breakouts or acne.
Other BHAs include:
Trethocanic acid
Beta-hydroxybutanoic acid
Tropic acid
What do BHAs do for the skin?
People who suffer breakouts at any age need a very specific skincare regime to help keep skin clear and spot-free. With acne, this is a constant battle and often a moving target, as hormones and environment fluctuate, so does your skin’s response. A regular routine will always be helpful, however. For irregular breakouts, keeping skin deep cleaned will certainly help.
Using a skincare product containing salicylic acid will help:
Clear acne and breakouts
Reduce oiliness
Smooth skin texture
Reduce the look of visible pores
Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
Brighten hyperpigmentation
How do BHAs work?
Just like AHAs, BHAs exfoliate the skin. But instead of working only on the upper layer, of skin, BHAs can be absorbed into the skin and pores exfoliate there. They break down and remove oil, dirt, and anything else trapped in our pores. They also help to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so these can be more easily removed, helping your skin barrier health and encouraging a healthy turnover of new skin cells.
By clearing pores and exfoliating the skin, excess oiliness is reduced, and those shiny patches we love so much (not) can be lessened or even banished.
Sun spots and age spots can lighten as the darker skin cells are lifted away, too, ,making it a marvellous product for those who perhaps spend a little too much time in the sun in their youth and are paying the price now.
How do you use BHAs?
BHAs are now a common skincare ingredient and you’ll find them in everything from cleansers to moisturisers, toners to serums and masks.
In my own collection, I have developed a smashing cleanser exfoliator, Prep Wash, with salicylic acid, that my clients with spot prone skin just love. It’s actually great for all skins, but the salicylic acid just gives it that extra hit of power if you’re fighting breakouts or acne.
I have also included it in my powerful serum Serum L, designed to combat breakouts and reduce oil production. Learn more about Serum L here.
When you’re choosing your skincare products, be aware that BHAs are used in different strengths in different products, and as an active ingredient it’s always safer to start gently and build up your use than go straight in. This way, you acclimatise your skin to the acid and are less likely to experience a reaction.
Some products with BHAs are designed for daily use (such as my own - but again, start just once or twice a week and build up slowly) and some are designed to be used just once a week. Always follow the instructions on the product have chosen - sheet masks, for example - and if you have any questions, drop me an email, I am always here to help.
Love, Penny x
