BHA is one of the best-known skincare ingredients. But what exactly is BHA and what effects does it have on your skin? You can find all the answers to the most important questions here!
BHA stands for beta-hydroxy acid and includes, among other things, salicylic acid used in skincare.
How Does BHA Affect the Skin?
Salicylic acid (BHA) is fat-soluble and can penetrate deep into the pores, removing dead skin cells and excess sebum from the pores.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, the acid also helps to reduce acne and blackheads and counteract redness. At the same time, it stimulates collagen production and boosts cell renewal.
Salicylic acid (BHA) is therefore mainly found in chemical peels and is ideal for those with oily skin that is prone to blemishes. It is particularly gentle and leaves a more radiant and even complexion.
In addition to skin care, salicylic acid (BHA) is also ideal for scalp care. It dissolves excess oil, dandruff and product deposits. However, you shouldn't use this deep cleansing too often: once a week is completely sufficient.
Difference Between BHA and AHA
AHA stands for alpha-hydroxy acid and is also a skincare ingredient that is increasingly used in chemical peels. AHAs in skincare include glycolic acid, mandelic acid and lactic acid.
Unlike BHA, AHAs are water-soluble and therefore cannot penetrate into the pores, but they still offer great benefits for the skin and especially for the skin's surface.
AHAs remove dry skin cells from the skin's surface and can effectively counteract first signs of aging and sun damage.
What Is BHA Suitable for?
BHA is particularly suitable for:
- for oily or acne-prone skin
- for clogged pores or blackheads
- with uneven skin structure
Caution: Both BHA and AHA should not be used by pregnant women or while breastfeeding.
Where Is BHA/Salicylic Acid Contained?
Salicylic acid is found in cleansers and chemical peels/serums for the face. Salicylic acid is also a common ingredient in bodycare products to help with body acne.
The Best Selection of BHA Products
Minimalist – Salicylic Acid + LHA 02% Cleanser
10,90 €
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Hanskin – Pore Cleansing Oil BHA
24,90 €
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Paula's Choice – Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
39,00 €
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Geek & Gorgeous – Porefectly Clear
7,90 €
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meisani – Your Best-tea BHA Spot Patches
10,90 €
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Minimalist – Salicylic Acid 02% Face Serum
12,90 €
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Paula's Choice – 2% BHA Body Spot Exfoliant
39,00 €
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The Correct Use of Salicylic Acid/ BHA
You should only slowly incorporate salicylic acid into your skincare routine so that your skin can get used to the new ingredient. It is best to use a low-dose product with a concentration of around 0.5 to 1% salicylic acid to start with.
It is best to use BHA in the evening as it can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. However, be sure to apply sunscreen with SPF 30+ every morning.
Start by slowly introducing salicylic acid into your routine, using it once or twice a week. If your skin tolerates it well, you can increase the application to once a day.
Possible Side Effects of BHA
Salicylic acid can cause some side effects, the most common of which are:
- dryness and flaking
- redness and irritation on sensitive skin
- increased sensitivity to the sun
Especially when you first start using BHA, your skin may become very flaky and dry. It is not uncommon for the skin to get worse at the beginning.
BHA can bring out underground, “dormant” impurities, so your skin may be more troubled by impurities at first. However, this should subside and improve after a few weeks.
Combination with Other Active Ingredients
Salicylic Acid and Vitamin C
If you would like to add an additional anti-aging effect to your routine, vitamin C is a great addition. However, you should pay attention to the timing of these two active ingredients: vitamin C is perfect for your morning routine, while you should use BHA separately in your evening routine.
Salicylic Acid and Retinol/Retinal
Retinol and retinal are also known for their collagen-stimulating properties and can help with acne and the first signs of aging. You should avoid using both active ingredients, retinol/retinal and BHA, together.
Alternate your ingredients and remember to soothe your skin barrier with moisturizing, strengthening formulas to ensure you don't overwhelm your skin.
Salicylic Acid and AHA
BHA and AHA are a great combination and perfect if you want a particularly intensive peeling effect. There are wonderful mix products that simply combine both active ingredients in the right concentrations - you can't go wrong with them without having to change your routine much.
Additionally, you can alternate your routines and, for example, use AHA one day and BHA the next day.
Minimalist – AHA BHA 10% Face Exfoliator
13,90 €
with the code
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Cosrx – AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
22,90 €
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Salicylic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a particularly mild, moisturizing ingredient that is considered to be very well tolerated. After all, hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in our skin. You can therefore combine hyaluronic acid with all kinds of active ingredients such as salicylic acid without hesitation.
In fact, moisturizing serums and creams are an absolute must for every skin type and a great addition when using BHA.
Frequently Asked Questions about BHA
Can You Use BHA Every Day?
Yes, after a slow adjustment period you can use BHA up to once a day. However, this always depends on your individual tolerance. Pay attention to how your skin reacts.
What Is BHA Good For?
BHA is an ideal skincare ingredient for acne, oily skin and skin prone to blemishes. It works deep into the pores and regulates sebum and removes dead skin cells. This reduces blemishes and blackheads and relieves inflammation.
Which Is Better: AHA or BHA?
It is not possible to say in general whether AHA or BHA is better. The two acids have different effects. BHA (salicylic acid) is fat-soluble, making it ideal for oily skin and works deep into the pores and effectively against impurities and blackheads. AHAs, on the other hand (these include glycolic, lactic and mandelic acid), are water-soluble and work on the surface of the skin. They stimulate skin renewal and help with signs of aging and sun damage.
Conclusion on BHA
BHA is an effective ingredient for anyone struggling with acne, clogged pores, or uneven skin texture. When used correctly, BHA can lead to clearer, brighter skin. As with all skincare products, it's important to pay attention to how your skin reacts.
We hope you enjoyed this blog post and the tips about salicylic acid helped you!
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