your guide to chemical exfoliation
When it comes to glowing skin, exfoliation is key. While we love using a physical exfoliant such as a scrub (this one is a Frida fave) to go in and help lift dead skin cells, chemical exfoliants are equally as important as they work to dissolve bonds between skin cells to help ease the removal process.
So how exactly do these chemical exfoliants work, which is best suited for your skin, and what are the benefits of adding them to your routine? Keep reading to find out!
AHAs vs BHAs?
Exfoliating acids are separated into two main categories: AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), and the names refer to their molecular structure. AHAs are water-soluble and work on the skin’s surface, while BHAs are oil-soluble and can penetrate the pores to help break up dead skin and buildup.
Benefits of AHAs
While there is a range of ingredients that are classified as AHAs, the two most commonly found in skincare are glycolic acid and lactic acid. While some benefits depend on the specific acid used, all AHAs work to help remove the outer layer of skin, making it more smooth and even in tone. They also stimulate your skin’s natural collagen production to help improve firmness and diminish fine lines.
Benefits of BHAs
Also a master of exfoliation, BHAs help keep skin smooth and encourage cell turnover, but since they can work within the pore, they make an incredibly effective whitehead and blackhead buster. The most common BHA is salicylic acid which also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help prevent acne from forming.
Can I use AHAs and BHAs?
Most people can use chemical exfoliants (beware if you have an aspirin allergy, salicylic acid is off limits!). If you tend to have more sensitive skin, acids are a smart choice as they can be less abrasive than scrubs. However, don’t rush in. Listen to your skin and scale things back if it’s feeling sensitive - just because something says to use twice a day, every day, it does not mean you have to follow it to a tee. Chemical Exfoliants come in many different forms, so find what works best for your skin.
frida favourite AHAs and BHAs:
To ease into chemical exfoliants, reach for a cleanser as it sits on the skin less versus a leave-on product (incorporate it only in your evening routine at first if you’re sensitive). This one from Teoxane uses a glycolic and fruit acid blend to gently encourage cell turnover, while hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture in the skin.
With this cleanser, if congestion is getting you down, start your routine off on the right foot. LHA (a derivative of salicylic acid) still works to decongest clogged pores, while glycolic acid eliminates dead skin buildup.
These pads are incredibly easy to use, help remove excess surface oil and decongest the skin. Glycolic acid will help smooth and brighten the skin, plus the addition of salicylic acid will help remove pore-clogging debris.
Utilizing a 10% complex of lactic and glycolic acid, this product will help stimulate cell regeneration, improve texture, sun damage, and enhance penetration of other skincare products. Start using 3-4x a week and increase frequency from there if needed.
