Chica The Breakdown on AHAs vs. BHAs: What Are They and How Are They Different? Ever wonder what's the difference between AHA and BHA chemical exfoliators? In this installment of #SkinDeep, we deep dive into the details of these powerful ingredients so you can figure out how they fit into your unique skin care routine. Por Laura Acosta Publicado en Junio 8, 2022 04:45PM EDT Foto: Courtesy 01 de 08 What Are AHAs? Courtesy Short for alpha-hydroxy acids, AHAs are gentle exfoliants derived from sugarcane and other plants, like glycolic acid. First Aid Beauty, FAB Skin Lab Resurfacing Liquid 10% AHA, $55, target.com 02 de 08 AHA Benefits Courtesy AHAs help remove dead skin cells through the process of chemical exfoliation. They also help moisturize and stimulate collagen production, making them perfect for drier skin types. The Ordinary, Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toning Solution, $10, sephora.com 03 de 08 What Are BHAs? Courtesy BHAs are beta-hydroxy acids. You may recognize one of the most popular types, salicylic acid, since its commonly used in acne-fighting products. The INKEY List, Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) Blemish + Blackhead Serum, $11.99, sephora.com 04 de 08 BHA Benefits Courtesy As exfoliants, BHAs penetrate deeper into pores, making them ideal for acne-prone skin. Plus, they help fight excess oil production while still being gentle. Sephora Collection, Targeted Pores Serum with BHA + PHA, $20, sephora.com 05 de 08 What's the Difference? Courtesy Both ingredients exfoliate, but AHA is ideal for dry skin, while BHA is more suited for fighting acne on oily skin. Herbivore, Prism AHA + BHA Exfoliating Glow Serum, $54, sephora.com 06 de 08 Combining the Two Courtesy While both actives tackle separate issues, they can work together in powerful formulas to target bumps, acne or pores in non-sensitive areas. The Ordinary, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution, $8, sephora.com 07 de 08 Ideal Partners Courtesy AHA and BHA can both be paired up with additional skin care ingredients, like vitamin C, allowing you to tackle multiple skin concerns at once. SkinCeuticals, C + AHA, $138, dermstore.com 08 de 08 Use With Caution Courtesy When it comes to chemical exfoliating, less is more! Make sure to do a patch test before using a new product and only use it once or twice a week. After use, make sure to finish your routine with hydration and plenty of SPF. La Roche-Posay, Double Repair Face Moisturizer, $19.99, dermstore.com