BHA vs AHA: What Is the Difference and Which Should You Choose?
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Two families of acids, one common goal: to remove dead skin cells and make room for new ones. The difference is where they work and which skin concerns they are better suited to.
AHA (glycolic and lactic acid)
AHAs are water-soluble and work mainly on the skin's surface. They are often suited to dry, normal or mature-looking skin and can help improve the appearance of texture and tone.
BHA (salicylic acid)
BHA is oil-soluble and can work within pores. It is often suited to oily, combination or blemish-prone skin and is used in routines focused on excess oil and the appearance of clogged pores.
Can you use both?
In some routines, such as combination skin with blemishes and an uneven-looking tone, both types may be used at appropriate concentrations. Avoid using high-strength exfoliating acids together unless your routine is specifically designed for that approach.
A practical starting point
- Start with 2 times per week.
- Use after cleansing and before moisturizing.
- Use sun protection in the morning.
For an Althea routine focused on oily or combination skin, Oily Control Serum is a natural product pathway. For dry or mature-looking skin, the Renewal Night Oil from Alice provides a different evening-care approach.