AHA vs BHA:
The Skincare Acids Explained

AHA, short for Alpha Hydroxy Acid, is a group of water-soluble acids often derived from natural sources such as fruits, milk, or sugarcane. AHAs work by gently breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the skin's surface, encouraging them to shed and allowing healthier, more radiant-looking skin to emerge. If you're dealing with rough texture, dryness, dullness, or uneven skin tone, AHAs can help improve your complexion by promoting smoother skin and boosting your natural glow. Common types of AHA include Glycolic Acid, known for its deep exfoliation; Lactic Acid, which is hydrating and gentle; and Citric Acid, sometimes used for brightening.

Both AHAs and BHAs help exfoliate the skin and improve texture, but they share several key benefits that make them effective for different skin types. They both:

• Promote the removal of dead skin cells, encouraging a smoother, fresher complexion and enhancing the overall appearance of the skin.
• Assist in minimising the visibility of enlarged pores by clearing out excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that can contribute to pore blockages.
• Contribute to the reduction of signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles, by stimulating cell turnover and promoting Collagen synthesis.
• Support skin tone evening, addressing concerns like discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots, resulting in a more uniform complexion.
• Enhance overall skin texture, leaving the skin feeling smoother and more refined.
• Promote pore unclogging, which can help prevent blemishes and blackhead formation by addressing the buildup of oil and impurities within the pores.

While AHAs and BHAs both help to exfoliate the skin and improve texture, the main difference lies in how and where they work. AHAs are best known for smoothing the skin's surface, while BHAs go deeper to unclog pores.

• AHAs are ideal for addressing dullness, uneven tone, dryness, and early signs of ageing. They exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin to promote a fresher, more radiant appearance.
• BHAs, such as Salicylic Acid, penetrate into the pores, making them particularly effective for helping to manage oiliness, blackheads, blemishes, and enlarged pores. Together, they offer complementary benefits – and for many skin types, using both (in rotation or as part of a balanced formula) can give you clearer, smoother, and more even-looking skin.

Start by cleansing with the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel. Formulated with Salicylic Acid (BHA), Sea Salt and Niacinamide, it deeply cleanses, helping to remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities from your skin while clearing the pores to help prevent breakouts and blackheads. Gentle on the skin, it mattifies and refines the texture for clear and smooth skin.

Next, use the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Scrub, enriched with Salicylic Acid (BHA), Sea Salt and Niacinamide. It supports your skin's natural renewal process, refines pores and reduces blackheads and blemishes without drying out your skin, to provide a clearer skin complexion.

After exfoliating or cleansing, apply the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Toner, which contains Salicylic Acid (BHA). This refreshing toner helps balance blemish-prone skin and further cleanse the pores. With Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide, this toner helps tighten pores and remove dead skin cells. It also controls excess oil production, which can contribute to breakouts and skin congestion. Regular use of this toner can enhance your skin's clarity, providing a smoother, more even texture.

After toning, use the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Chemical Exfoliator to provide gentle exfoliation with AHA. This product helps refine skin texture and target blemishes, and it's perfect for nightly use. Simply apply it after toning, without rinsing, to ensure smooth, clear skin without over-drying.

Yes, AHA and PHA can offer enhanced results for many skin types, especially when combined. While AHA works to exfoliate the outermost layers of the skin, PHA provides a gentler exfoliation, making it suitable for more sensitive skin. Together in an appropriate formula, they complement each other by exfoliating the skin while minimising the risk of over-exfoliation or irritation. You can also use AHA and PHA alongside BHA (Salicylic Acid), but it's important to avoid over-exfoliating. If you're considering using all three, choose a dermatologically tested formula combining these three types of exfoliants. It is typically advised to avoid using chemical exfoliators more than once a day. This approach will allow you to target multiple skin concerns, like uneven tone, clogged pores, and blemishes, while minimising the risk of irritation. Try a balanced, gentle formula to exfoliate with AHAs and PHA to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and encourage skin renewal for radiant skin. For an effective yet gentle exfoliation, try the NIVEA Luminous630 Skin Glow Liquid Refiner, formulated with 4% AHA, 1% PHA, and Aloe Vera. PHA is a gentler exfoliant than AHA, making it ideal for sensitive skin while providing added hydration. This leave-on peeling formula gently exfoliates to remove dead skin cells for instantly smooth skin and an even complexion in just 7 days*. ^{*Clinical evaluation, 48 volunteers}

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning, even on cloudy or indoor days. UV rays can penetrate clouds and, to some extent, even windows – and consistent SPF use is your best defence.
  
  
• Use exfoliating acids in your nighttime routine, especially if you're new to acids or have sensitive skin. This minimises immediate sun exposure after application and allows your skin to recover overnight.
  
  
• Make sunscreen a daily habit and non-negotiable when using chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs. Regular SPF use not only protects your skin but also enhances the results of your exfoliating routine.