What are Beta-Hydroxy Acids? Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble chemical exfoliants that help dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. They are naturally found in willow bark, sweet birch bark, and wintergreen leaves, but are also synthesized for skincare use.The most used BHA in skincare is salicylic acid.Because BHAs are oil-soluble, they can penetrate deep into pores, making them especially …
What are Beta-Hydroxy Acids?
Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble chemical exfoliants that help dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. They are naturally found in willow bark, sweet birch bark, and wintergreen leaves, but are also synthesized for skincare use.
The most used BHA in skincare is salicylic acid.
Because BHAs are oil-soluble, they can penetrate deep into pores, making them especially effective at clearing congestion and preventing breakouts.
Benefits of BHAs
BHAs work best for normal to oily, acne-prone, and congested skin. Key benefits include:
- Exfoliate the skinby unclogging pores and reducing blackheads
- Improve skin texture and tonewhile supporting hydration
- Antibacterial action, helping inhibitCutibacterium (P.) acnes
- Anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and irritation
BHAs in Skincare Products
You’ll commonly find BHAs in:
- Cleansers
• Toners
• Serums
• At-home and professional chemical peels
Typical concentrations:
- 5–2%: Cleansers
- 1–2%: Toners & serums
- 10–20%: Professional / at-home peels (dermatologist-guided)
- Cleansers
How to Use BHAs
- Rinse-off BHA cleanserscan be used daily for oily, acne-prone skin.
- Leave-on BHA productsshould be introduced slowly:
- Start2–3 times per week, preferably at night
- Increase frequency only if well tolerated
- Always follow withbroad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) during the day, as exfoliation increases sun sensitivity.
Compatibility With Other Actives
Safe to combine with:
✔ Hyaluronic Acid
✔ Niacinamide
✔ Peptides
Avoid layering at the same time with:
✘ Other exfoliating acids (AHA, PHA)
✘ L-Ascorbic Acid (pure Vitamin C)
✘ Retinoids
(If needed, these can be used on alternate days.)
Are BHAs Safe for Acne-Prone or Sensitive Skin?
✔ Acne-prone skin: Yes — BHAs help unclog pores and reduce acne lesions.
⚠️ Sensitive skin: Start with low concentrations and limited frequency. Consult a dermatologist if unsure.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
⚠️ Use with caution
- Preferlow concentrations (≤2%)
- Limit application tosmall areas (e.g. face only)
- Avoid high-strength peels
- Always use sunscreen
Pregnancy increases skin sensitivity, so introduce BHAs gently and conservatively.
Dr. Suruchi-Recommended BHA Products
1. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Green Tea Extract
Notable Benefits: Deep pore exfoliation, anti-inflammatory
Full Ingredients:
Water (Aqua), Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium EDTA.
2. COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
Key Active: Betaine Salicylate (gentler BHA derivative)
Notable Benefits: Blackhead reduction, barrier-friendly exfoliation
Ingredients:
Willow Bark Water, Betaine Salicylate, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate.
3. SkinO2 Salicylic Acid Toner
Key Ingredients:
- 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) – Deep pore cleansing
- Glycolic Acid (AHA) – Surface exfoliation
- Hyaluronic Acid – Hydration & barrier support
INGREDIENTS
Water, Butanediol, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine, Allantoin, Glycolic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, O-Cymene-5-Ol, Yellow Bark Extract (Phellodendron Amurense) , Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Glycine Soja Protein, Carbomer, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerol.
Final Takeaway
BHAs are powerful pore-clearing exfoliants that work best for oily and acne-prone skin. Used correctly and consistently, they can significantly improve congestion, texture, and breakouts.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
For the latest information, it is recommended to review the ingredient list printed on the packaging of the product prior to usage or consumption.
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Dr. Suruchi Vohra
Hi! I’m Dr. Suruchi Vohra, an MD Dermatologist with around 12 years of experience in Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) treating skin, hair and nail conditions across all age groups and various skin tones.
