How to use AHA – BHA correctly?

What is AHA?
AHA is a chemical exfoliant, suitable for treating dry, dull and blemished skin. It dissolves the connective material that holds the dead skin cells and removes them from its surface, revealing the new cells that are in a lower layer of the skin. 

What are the benefits of AHA?
New skin cells make skin look brighter, less dull and rejuvenated. AHA smooths the skin, thickens the upper layer of the skin and increases collagen production. It is a mild chemical exfoliator. 

Different types of AHAs:

• Glycolic acid : the most popular and common AHA, due to its small molecular size, which helps it penetrate the skin easily and effectively. It's great for reducing hyperpigmentation and improving skin texture and tone. Glycolic acid is commonly found in anti-aging products such as instant rejuvenation masks. Its main disadvantage is that it can irritate the skin if used frequently and in large quantities. 
• Lactic acid: works effectively in dealing with redness. Lactic acid is used to lighten brown spots and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its molecular size is larger than glycolic acid but not as large as mandelic acid. 
• Mandelic acid : has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for people with acne-prone skin. Its molecular size is the largest of all these AHAs and therefore takes longer to take effect. But its action is less irritating. 

What is BHA?
BHA is the most popular acid for solving pore-related problems. It sinks deep into the pores on the one hand to remove excess oils, dirt and any makeup residue and on the other hand to clean the pores effectively. It is suitable for the treatment of acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and slows down the production of oil and sebum. For these reasons, BHA is most effective for oily and acne-prone skin. 

Different types of BHA:

• Salicylic acid: known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has all the great benefits of AHA including brightening, firming and increasing collagen production, but without the hygroscopic ingredients of AHA. That's why those with dry skin need to be a little more careful when using it and follow up their routine with moisturizing products in order to prevent the skin from drying out. It penetrates deep into the sebaceous glands, making it ideal for acne-prone and oily skin. It also dissolves excess sebum and substances that can clog pores while keeping skin clear and bright. You can find salicylic acid in anti-acne products.

Can I combine AHA and BHA?
Because acids can cause photosensitivity, it is best to use them only at night. Follow up with sunscreen every morning to protect your skin and prevent pigmentation. AHA and BHA acids should be used gradually in skin care and introduced into it slowly. For those with oily skin, the combination of AHA and BHA can be beneficial, while for sensitive and dry skin, this combination can cause irritation and dryness.

Recommended product:

Green Plum Refreshing Toner AHA+BHA by Beauty of Joseon
Due to its light composition, this particular product can be used morning and night.