How often can you use AHAs and BHAs?
How often you can use exfoliating acids also depends on the type of product and your skin type. Read on the product how often you are advised to use the product. Some products are mild enough for daily use, while others have a maximum limit of 1-4 days per week.
What should I do if my skin is irritated?
If you feel that your skin is irritated, red, or starting to flake, it may be over exfoliated. Then you should give your skin a break and choose gentle, soothing products. Feel free to choose a moisturizer with ceramides, which can help create a skin barrier, and try to keep your skin care routine as simple as possible while it recovers. It's also wise to avoid cleansing your skin more than necessary.
PHA Acids
PHA is an acronym for Poly Hydroxy Acids. Gluconolactone is a PHA acid that is often used in skin care. Because of its large molecules, it penetrates the skin more slowly than, for example, glycolic acid and is therefore softer. Just like the AHA acids, PHA binds moisture in the skin and is therefore particularly suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
LHA acids
LHA - lipohydroxy acid - is a derivative of salicylic acid and is therefore actually a BHA acid. LHA acids are also fat-soluble and therefore have the same use, but are said to be milder on the skin than BHAs.
Precautions When Using Acids
Some acids make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, especially glycolic acid. Therefore, you should limit your use of products with glycolic acid in the summer. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, does not make your skin more sensitive to the sun and can be used in summer. Either way, there is no reason to forego sunscreen-a good sunscreen is especially important when using acid exfoliants, mechanical scrubs or retinol to avoid sun damage. Fear of sun damage is also the reason many people choose to use exfoliating acids at night.