The Power of Chemical Exfoliation: AHA vs BHA

by Palden Lhamo July 23, 2020

image of enzymatic exfoliator

One’s skin, regardless of its specific type, requires special care and attention through exfoliation, an essential part of a skincare regime, to ensure that its appearance remains fresh and clear of clogged dead cells. Every individual’s skin shares the process of having old layers of dead skin cells shift toward the face’s surface and engage in desquamation, a process in which they dry and eventually shed. However, because everyone’s skin varies in the speed to which their dead skin cells vanish, gentle and effective facial products such as LaBruna’s cruelty free and non-toxic Cherry Acid Peel and Enzymatic Exfoliator are imperative in maintaining smooth skin that glows by unclogging pores, evening skin tone, and improving cell turnover.

Facial chemical exfoliators are available in two forms: AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid). While AHA is derived from sugar cane and creates glycolic and lactic acid, BHA is derived from anti-inflammatory plants such as the bark from the willow tree and vegetables like tomatoes and radishes to create salicylic acid. According to Paula’s Choice, AHA and BHA share similar features such being “formulated within a narrow pH range, between 3 and 4” and with the purpose to “improve the look of dull, uneven skin tone" and to "diminish the look of lines and wrinkles.” 

However, the decision whether to choose to use an AHA or BHA lies entirely upon personal discernment. For skin that has a tendency to be more dry, AHA is a potent solution as it is water soluble and can "enhance natural moisturizing factors within skin." (Paula's Choice) AHA is also effective in diminishing sun damage and wrinkles, so individuals with sun-damaged skin may prefer choosing such an exfoliator. BHA, on the other hand, is suitable for those with oily skin as it is oil soluble and can work "deep inside the pore” (Paula’s Choice) to reduce blemishes and acne bumps. BHA is also wonderful in calming redness, so it is suitable for sensitive skin. AHA stimulates collagen and helps reduce fine lines whereas BHA counteracts bacteria and treats skin conditions like warts. Therefore, the consumer should be aware of their personal skin type, and then, make a sensible decision on which acid would best compliment one’s own skin.

LaBruna Skincare offers two non-toxic and fragrance-free exfoliators that contain impressive properties and formulas which work wonders in combating skin inflammation. LaBruna’s Enzymatic Exfoliator, composed of Alpha Hydroxy Acids like glycolic acid, and physical exfoliants such as pumpkin pulp, papaya and pineapple enzymes, and a Beta Hydroxy Acid, willow bark, reduces dead skin cells and decreases fine lines to provide one's skin with a desirable glow and smooth finish. LaBruna’s Cherry Acid Peel, composed of Alpha Hydroxy Acids like glycolic and lactic acid and Beta Hydroxy Acids such as salicylic acid, leave one with a soft, refined skin texture and brightening effect. Regardless, after cleansing, the next vital step of exfoliation (which should be done 2-3 times a week) can be assuredly addressed with either of LaBruna’s acclaimed exfoliators, Cherry Acid Peel or Enzymatic Exfoliator, by simply leaving the product on for 10 minutes after gently massaging it on the face in circular motions!      


References

How to Exfoliate Skin: Paula's Choice. (n.d.). Retrieved July 21, 2020, from https://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/skincare-advice/anti-aging-wrinkles/how-to-exfoliate-skin.html?clickid=y17TTyyXUxyORPCwUx0Mo38XUkiRvySxI28uQ00 



Palden Lhamo
Palden Lhamo

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