What Are Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) For Exfoliation And Acne?
Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are a class of skincare acids that are primarily used to exfoliate the skin and treat acne. They are usually derived from natural sources making them sustainable and a perfect addition to your skincare regime.
Understanding Exfoliation
Before going into a detailed explanation of the ingredient, it’s worthwhile to take some time to explain why exfoliation is really important for your overall skin health.
Basically, the outer layer of the skin, the skin barrier (the stratum corneum), is composed of dead skin cells called corneocytes. The skin naturally sheds its outer layer; however, it is common for dead skin cells to build on the surface of the skin leading to dullness, flaking, bumpy texture, and acne.
Beta Hydroxy Acids Exfoliant's Property
How this ties in with BHAs is that they exfoliate the skin by loosening the bonds holding corneocytes together (desmosomes). This process releases the dead cells from the surface of the skin and is known as chemical exfoliation.¹
Chemical exfoliation has benefits over physical exfoliation (scrubbing) as it is common for harsh physical exfoliators to cause micro scratches and inflammation in the skin.
Benefits of Beta Hydroxy Acids for Blackheads and Acne:
This is helped, in no small part, by the fact that BHAs are oil-soluble molecules with good penetration into the skin. They are commonly used on those with oily skin and acne.
The reason being that BHAs work to unclog skin cells that contribute to acne and blocked pores.
Comparatively, AHAs are water-soluble meaning they can treat skin superficially, which has its own set of benefits. It all depends on what your unique skincare goals are.
Beta Hydroxy Acids: Considerations and Side Effects
Although BHAs have been proven to be extremely helpful for the skin, as with all skin products, there are a few points to note down before you start using them religiously.
Firstly, much like AHAs, they increase sun-sensitivity in the skin. As a result, it’s important to be diligent with your sunscreen when using this ingredient.
Benefits of Beta Hydroxy Acids Exfoliants for Acne-Prone Skin
All in all, BHAs are a great option for helping treat acne-prone skin. They’ll work internally to help rid your skin of all that unwanted oil and provide some stunning results.
Not to mention, the only side effects that you will see, apart from clearer skin, will be brighter, more radiant skin since this ingredient is more or less irritating (of course, skin types vary meaning this will not be the case for everyone).
Beta Hydroxy Acids Toner, Serum & Face Wash
Not to mention, this ingredient has become widely available within a range of infused with Beta Hydroxy Acids toners, serums and face wash products due to its popularisation among both skincare enthusiasts and experts in the field which means that you have to at least give it a try.
Q&A
What are the benefits of using a beta hydroxy acid exfoliant?
Beta hydroxy acid exfoliants offer multiple benefits for the skin, including unclogging pores, reducing blackheads, and improving overall skin texture and tone.
Can I use a beta hydroxy acid toner during pregnancy?
While many skincare products containing beta hydroxy acids are safe for pregnancy, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before use to ensure safety for both the mother and baby.
What are some examples of beta hydroxy acid serums?
Popular examples of beta hydroxy acid serums include salicylic acid serums, which are effective for treating acne, reducing blackheads, and promoting clear, smooth skin.
References
1. Green B, Yu R, Van Scott E. Clinical and Cosmeceutical Uses of Hydroxyacids. Clinics in Dermatology. 2009;27(5):495-501.