What is BHA Serum?
The abbreviation BHA stands for “beta-hydroxy-acid” and is also known as “salicylic acid.” Anyone who now thinks: “Oh, horror, acid!” Not to worry, as salicylic acid is not caustic, but is much more calming and anti-inflammatory. BHA is used in cosmetics as a chemical peel and is used in professional cosmetic applications as well as in home use. Whether a BHA serum, a BHA toner or a face cream with salicylic acid: Daily-use products typically contain low doses of between 0.5 and 2%. Medicinal formulations may contain up to 25% salicylic acid and should be used only under medical supervision. An exfoliant gently removes dead skin cells through chemical processes rather than abrasive particles like a mechanical peel.
How does BHA Serum work?
A BHA serum has varying effects that are especially useful for oily skin prone to blemishes.
Radiant complexion: A BHA serum gently sloughs away dead skin cells from the healthy skin beneath, revealing a radiant complexion.
Clear skin: Salicylic acid is fat-soluble and therefore a great bonus for oily skin. The scrub penetrates deep into the pores, ridding them of oil and dirt and controlling sebum production. It prevents blackheads and impurities.
Fine complexion: With regular use, coarse pores become smaller with time.
No More Pimples: The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect of salicylic acid activates the skin’s self-healing powers and thus helps to reduce blemishes, promotes healing of pimples and prevents further inflammation.
Plumping effect: BHA peeling has a smoothing anti-aging effect, promotes skin renewal, stimulates the body’s own collagen production and improves skin texture. Skin becomes firm and supple, fine lines and wrinkles are reduced.
Smooth skin: Thanks to the peeling effect of BHA serum, imperfections like acne, pigment spots and acne scars are effectively reduced. The complexion looks more balanced and even. Regular use can also reduce milia, the small, white cysts also known as grittiness.
BHA Peeling: What Skin Type Is It Suitable For?
BHA serums are especially good for the following skin types:
normal skin
unclean skin with blackheads and mild acne
oily and mixed skin
mature skin
If you have sensitive or dry skin, but if you have severe acne and skin diseases such as rosacea or neurodermatitis, you should first discuss application with your doctor. If you are allergic to acetylsalicylic acid, you should not use a BHA serum!
How is BHA Serum applied?
A BHA serum can be easily integrated into the care routine. If you must decide on a chemical peeling product, test the peel on a small area of skin first and always pay attention to the application instructions on the product, as incorrect use can irritate the skin.
1. Cleanse the face thoroughly as usual.
2. Gently spread a few drops of the serum on the face.
3. Let the BHA serum soak in for a moment.
4. Apply face cream and continue with the routine as usual.
5. During the day, it is important to apply a sun protection or day cream with a sun protection factor of at least SPF 30, as the skin becomes more sensitive to UV radiation from the effects of acids.
When using a BHA serum for the first time, it’s important to introduce the skin to it gradually. Use a low-dose serum of salicylic acid, see how your skin reacts, and contact your doctor if the redness and pain don’t go away after a short period of time. Start with a weekly application, which you can increase to 3 times a week.
Salicylic Acid Treatment with Sunscreen Only
A BHA exfoliant removes dead scales on the skin, bringing fresh, youthful cells to the surface. They urgently require additional protection against UV radiation in the form of sunscreen for the face, otherwise premature skin aging is inevitable. Redness, wrinkles, pigmented spots and even skin cancer can result.
What is the difference between AHA and BHA?
Alpha and beta hydroxy acids have different properties and are suitable for different skin types. Unlike AHA serums, salicylic acid is fat-soluble and penetrates deep into the skin and pores, ridding them of fatty deposits and dirt. Therefore, a BHA serum is particularly suitable for those with impure and acne-prone skin, whereas an AHA serum is recommended for those with dry, flaky and mature skin. Both peels exfoliate the skin and brighten the complexion. Combination scrubs contain AHAs and BHAs, making them a great all-rounder. If you are not sure what is the right skin care regimen for you, consult a dermatologist.
What is BHA Serum?
BHA is short for “beta hydroxy acid,” also known as salicylic acid. It is fat soluble and is used on unclean skin to unclog pores and fight impurities.
What is BHA good for?
Beta hydroxy acid is effective against unclean skin and smoothes out wrinkles and lines on the face. BHA Serum is a chemical peel that sloughs away dead cells from healthy skin, revealing a radiant complexion.
What is the difference between chemical peel and mechanical peel?
A mechanical peeler works with tiny abrasive particles that remove dead cells by friction. In a chemical peel, dead skin cells are gradually removed by enzymes.
Which is better AHA or BHA?
AHA is water soluble and acts on the surface of the skin, making it preferred for dry and sun-damaged skin. BHA is fat soluble and works deep into the skin and pores, it is used for oily and unclean skin.
