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AHA & BHA

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) & BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

ExfoliantLevel: Intermediate

AHA and BHA are chemical exfoliants that help remove dead skin cells without needing physical scrubs. AHA (water-soluble) works on the surface for brightening, while BHA (oil-soluble) enters pores for a deep clean. Both make skin smoother, brighter, and clearer!

Level

Intermediate

Safe Concentration

AHA: 5-10% for daily use, 20-30% for weekly peel | BHA: 0.5-2%

When to Use

PM

Frequency

2-3x a week for beginners, can be daily if tolerated

Skin Benefits

  • โœ“Removes dead skin cells
  • โœ“Brightens dull skin
  • โœ“Smooths out skin texture
  • โœ“AHA: evens out skin tone, anti-aging
  • โœ“BHA: cleans pores, reduces blackheads and acne
  • โœ“Helps other skincare products penetrate better

Suitable for Skin Types

AHA: Normal, dry, mature, sun-damaged skinBHA: Oily, acne-prone, combination skinBe careful with sensitive skin - start slow!

How to Use Correctly

  1. 1Use at night after cleansing
  2. 2Start with low concentration and low frequency
  3. 3Wait for it to absorb before layering
  4. 4Always follow with a moisturizer
  5. 5MUST wear sunscreen the next day!

Ingredient Combinations

โŒ Avoid Combining With

  • โ€ข DON'T layer AHA + BHA together (pick one)
  • โ€ข Retinol on the same night
  • โ€ข Vitamin C at the same time
  • โ€ข Physical scrubs

Effective for Skin Concerns

Potential Side Effects

  • โš ๏ธPurging (especially with BHA)
  • โš ๏ธDryness and peeling
  • โš ๏ธIncreased sun sensitivity
  • โš ๏ธIrritation if overused

๐Ÿ’ก Fun Fact

AHA was first used by Cleopatra! Legend has it she bathed in sour milk (containing lactic acid) to keep her skin smooth and glowing. Ancient beauty wisdom! ๐Ÿ‘‘

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