Everything You Need to Know About Beta Hydroxy Acid Products, According to a Dermatologist

Struggling with acne can feel like a never ending battle. You may have found yourself testing out cleanser after cleanser yet nothing is working for you. That said, perhaps it’s time to try out beta hydroxy acid (BHA), which you may have heard about via social media.  

To help you understand everything you need to know about the powerful, acne-fighting acid, below, Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic, NYC, discusses its benefits with ESSENCE. 

What is Beta-hydroxy acid?

“Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are water-soluble acids that are commonly used to exfoliate the skin,” Engelman tells ESSENCE. “BHAs are effective in minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, targeting uneven skin texture, and improving acne breakouts.”

Who can use it?

Most skin types can benefit from using products with BHAs. Engelman recommends patients start out slowly with only once a week application and gradually, if they see results, build up to 2-3 times a week. After this, you can even bump up to once or twice daily, depending on the other ingredients and products in your current skincare regimen.

What are the benefits?

Beta Hydroxy Acids are known to help eliminate dead skin cells, which can improve the texture, appearance, and brightness of the skin. This is because they deeply cleanse the skin, unclog pores, exfoliate the skin’s surface, and balance excess sebum. That said, according to Engleman, people with cystic acne can benefit from using products that contain beta hydroxy acids. 

Which products should I use?

01

01
Buttah Skin Rosewater Toner

The toner contains salicylic acid, rosewater, aloe vera, and vitamin E which work together to mitigate inflammation and redness on the skin.
Available at amazon.com

02

02
OLE HENRIKSEN Cold Plunge Pore Mask

For those with oily skin, this mask can help reduce shine and the appearance of enlarged pores.
Available at olehenriksen.com

03

03
Caudalie Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Pore Minimising Serum

The serum contains niacinamide and grapeseed polyphenols that can help exfoliate your skin, reduce your pores, and improve your skin’s texture.
Available at dermstore.com

04

04
Murad AHA/BHA/Retinoid Daily Clarifying Peel

This clarifying peel contains salicylic acid, glycolic acid, retinoid, and avocado extracts to balance and reduce shine.
Available at dermstore.com

05

05
CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

This cleanser contains salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, and Vitamin D. It exfoliates dead skin cells, restores the natural barrier, adds moisture, and calms your skin.
Available at ulta.com

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