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By studying the 10 steps of Korean skincare we learned the importance of a regular excoriation of our skin. Exfoliating the skin guarantees us a better absorption of the nutrients present in the products that we are going to apply later, eliminating all the dead cells that prevent their penetration.
The most common exfoliating acids are AHA, BHA and PHA acids. Let's see together their characteristics and the best Korean products that contain them!
AHA, BHA, PHA acids: the differences
The three acids AHA, BHA and PHA have a strong exfoliating power, being effective yet gentle at the same time. So let's see the main differences.
AHAs are water-soluble acids obtained from sugary fruits. They help strip the surface of the skin, so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells can regenerate and take their place. After use, you will notice skin that is instantly smoother to the touch.
BHA, or beta-hydroxy acid, is mainly used for acne and sun damage. This acid penetrates deep into the hair follicles to get rid of excess oils, dead skin cells and unclog pores. Due to these effects, BHAs are more suitable for combination and oily skin. Lower concentrations of BHA can be used to soothe sensitive skin.
Finally, PHA, the least known of the three, stands for polyhydroxyacids, a group of acids that includes gluconolactone, lactobionic acid and maltobionic acid. PHAs are beneficial for people with sensitive skin, such as rosacea or eczema, because they have larger molecular structures than AHAs. As a result, they penetrate the skin less and act more slowly. Plus, they lock in moisture and gently exfoliate the skin. Therefore, PHAs can provide visible improvements in sun-damaged skin, comparable to AHAs. However, unlike AHAs, PHAs do not make skin more sensitive to sunlight.
The best exfoliating products
Now that we are aware of the characteristics of AHA, BHA and PHA acids, let's see together the best products that contain them.
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
Contains 4% BHA and gently removes blackheads and dead skin cells. The fluid effectively penetrates the skin and unclog pores by tightening them. Restores the skin's natural moisture level leaving it clean and radiant.
SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum
SOMEBYMI Miracle Serum promises an improvement in skin texture after just 30 days. The highly concentrated tea tree water in combination with gotu kola soothes the skin and deeply nourishes it. The exfoliating acids AHA, BHA and PHA remove dead skin cells and sebum deposits, so that the skin can breathe again and absorb the active ingredients unhindered.
SOMEBYMI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream
This cream, winner of 5 beauty awards in Korea, is the ideal solution for oily acne-prone skin, with a toning and anti-aging effect.
A very light gel cream with rapid absorption. Contains Centella Asiatica water (70%) and Tea Tree, which help to make the skin clean and smooth, giving it brightness. AHA to exfoliate the skin by eliminating dead cells, BHA to shrink pores and PHA to keep the skin hydrated.
