Does anyone else read their skincare ingredients list and think ‘Huh??’… With so much new technology and research out there in the market, we are constantly being told the newest and latest thing to put on our skin. But without knowing what all the science-y terms mean, it can be incredibly confusing. Here we breakdown what two of the most popular new ingredients actually are, and why they should become a part of your routine. Your skin can thank us later.
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) is one of the most common ingredients in skincare products. It refers to exfoliant ingredients like lactic and glycolic acids. It can be incorporated into pretty much any type of product, from masks to toners, moisturisers, peels, exfoliators and cleansers. Dubbed a wonder ingredient because it cleanses deeply, removing dead skin cells whilst also providing a tonne of moisture. AHA products also have anti-ageing benefits and suit sun-damaged or dry skin.
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid, also known as salicylic acid) does pretty much the same thing, but just does it more effectively. Just like AHA, it’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial, which leaves your skin super clean and calm. This makes any skin product with BHA ideal for oily, congested and acne-prone skin types. BHAs help to deep clean the pores that cause whiteheads and blackheads.
So there you have it: AHA and BHA decoded! Both of these super-ingredients are the not-so-little secrets that ensure clear and gorgeous skin!
