AHA, BHA or PHA?
Att få in rätt mängd, rätt sort och rätt halt av syror i hudvårdsrutinen kan göra stor skillnad för din hy. Men vad är egentligen skillnad på AHA- och PHA-syra, och hur vet jag vilken syra som passar mig? Här kommer en enkel guide för dig som behöver lite vägledning.
AHA
AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid) is a type of water-soluble acid used in skincare products to exfoliate the skin. AHA loosens the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, which allows these cells to be removed more easily. This leads to a softer and more even skin tone with a nice glow. AHA works mostly on the surface of the skin and does not penetrate deep into the pores.
Exfoliates: The acid helps to remove dead skin cells and makes the skin softer and smoother.
Stimulates cell renewal: As you dissolve and remove old dead skin cells, you stimulate the skin to produce new ones, which leads to a finer glow in the skin.
Evens out the skin tone: AHA can also reduce the visibility of pigment spots, which then evens out the skin tone.
Reduces fine lines: Regular use of AHA can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Who should use AHA?
AHA is great for people with dry or sun damaged skin, as the acids are water soluble and therefore focus on improving the outer layer of the skin. They can also be good for people who want to treat age spots or signs of aging. If you have very sensitive skin, however, you should be a little careful with AHA. And remember, AHA makes your skin more sensitive to the sun so use sunscreen every day.
BHA
BHA (Beta-Hydroxy Acid), commonly Salicylic Acid, is a fat-soluble acid and can, unlike AHA, penetrate into the pores and dissolve sebum and other impurities. BHA also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making them great for soothing the irritation and redness associated with acne. What then?
Deep pore cleansing: Penetrates into pores and dissolves oil and dead skin cells, reducing clogging.
Prevents acne: Helps reduce the appearance of pimples and blackheads.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Soothes the skin and reduces irritation, especially useful for acne.
Who can use BHA?
If you have oily or combination skin, this is your acid! BHA is fat soluble and can penetrate the oil in the skin to clean the pores. If you have blackheads and large pores, the BHA acid can help reduce the visibility of these as it can dissolve sebum and sebum. Salicylic Acid is also one of the most effective ingredients for treating and preventing acne. Keep in mind that you may need to get your skin used to it when you start to use BHA.
PHA
PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid) is similar to AHA but has a much larger molecular structure which makes it more gentle than AHA. PHA is not only mildly exfoliating but also moisture-preserving, which means that they are great for sensitive skin and those that are sensitive to AHA or BHA. PHA works by gently exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin and at the same time binding moisture to the skin's surface. In addition, PHA has antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin against damage from free radicals such as pollution.
Gentle exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells without irritating, leaving the skin softer and fresher.
Moisturizing properties: Binds moisture to the skin's surface and contributes to a fuller, hydrated feeling.
Antioxidative benefits: Protects the skin against external stressors and damage from free radicals.
Who should use PHA?
PHA is really suitable for everyone, but especially if you have dry and sensitive skin and want a gentler exfoliation than AHA. Because PHA is so gentle, you can use it every day. Although PHA is mild, it can also make the skin a little more sensitive to the sun, so don't forget your SPF during the day.