Do you ever look in the mirror and wish your skin felt smoother and brighter? Many people struggle with dull skin or pesky blemishes. It can feel confusing when you see “AHA” and “BHA” on so many skincare bottles. These ingredients sound fancy, but what do they actually do for your face? Choosing the right mix of these acids can feel like a guessing game. You want results without irritation, but knowing which product suits your skin is tough.
Navigating the world of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) doesn’t have to be a headache. We break down exactly what these powerhouse ingredients are. You will learn how to spot the best AHA/BHA products for your specific skin type. By the end of this post, you will feel confident picking out the perfect solution to reveal clearer, glowing skin. Ready to unlock your best complexion? Let’s dive into the secrets of AHA and BHA skincare.
Top Aha Bha Products Recommendations
No. 1
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, Advanced Exfoliating Peel for Brighter Skin, 1 Fl Oz
- ADVANCED EXFOLIATION: AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution deeply exfoliates to reveal brighter, smoother skin.
- POWERFUL ACID BLEND: Combines alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHA) to exfoliate dead skin that can clog pores, even skin tone, and improve texture. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, pro-vitamin B5 and black carrot.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Use once or twice a week on clean, dry skin. Apply evenly across face and neck, avoiding eyes. Rinse off after 10 minutes. Do not use on sensitive or broken skin.
- USE WITH CAUTION: Ideal for experienced users of acid exfoliation. Always use sunscreen and limit sun exposure during use and for one week after.
- FREE FROM: Cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan, alcohol-free, oil-free, and silicone-free formulation.
No. 2
SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner – 5.07oz, 150ml – Korean Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Face Toner for All Skin Types – Daily Pore Care & Oil Control with 2% Niacinamide – Korean Skin Care
- SOME BY MI : SOME BY MI is a compound word of ‘SOMETHING’ and ‘BY A MIRACLE’. Our brand mission is to make products that stick to the essentials of cosmetics, with safe and clean ingredients with proven efficacy. Through our Skincare products, we hope to bring some positive changes and ‘MIRACLES’ to your skin
- MIRACLE TONER : The Korean toner helps to refine skin texture in the first step of skincare, ensuring a smooth base for makeup application. This AHA BHA toner is particularly effective due to its inclusion of AHA/BHA/PHA ingredients, which gently exfoliate dead skin cells and impurities, leaving the skin clear and smooth. Additionally, the high concentration of tea tree extract in this pore care toner soothes and treats troubled skin, making it an essential part of any Korean skincare routine
- KEY INGREDIENTS : AHA exfoliates the surface of the skin and can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and improve the skin texture and tone. BHA exfoliates the inside of the pores, help to clear out impurities and excess sebum. PHA is a gentle exfoliator which help to hydrate the skin, brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve the overall texture of the skin
- MIRACLE LINE : MIRACLE Lines are suitable for sensitive skin, containing high amounts of Tea Tree Leaf to improve the skin. This line has optimally mixed AHA, BHA, PHA to refine dead skin cells and impurities, and Truecica, an exclusive calming agent, that maintains healthy-looking skin and refines sebum and skin troubles through pH balance care. Free of 20 harmful ingredients and passed irritation test for sensitive skin
- SOME BY US : We make products with proven efficacy only by undergoing strict testing from the planning & developing stages to product launch, in collaboration with various dermatology experts. If you have any questions about our products, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your satisfaction is the ‘First Priority Goal’ of SOME BY MI
No. 3
Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment - Face Exfoliator with AHA & BHA Lightweight Formula - Pore Minimizer, Facial Skin Care with Glycolic & Salicylic Acid
- BRIGHTEN, EXFOLIATE, AND RESURFACE: Embrace newfound confidence with the Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating treatment made with powerful ingredients to reveal your most radiant skin. Renew and resurface while you rest, wake up glowing!
- FIGHT BREAKOUTS AND IMPROVE TEXTURE: Notice the difference in your skin! This gentle yet exfoliating treatment targets texture, congestion, clogged pores, enlarged pores, and dullness with a formula designed to bring out the best in your skin.
- POTENT FORMULA FOR RADIANT SKIN: Glycolic and lactic acid (AHAs) go to work on the surface of your skin to promote renewal and improved texture, while Salicylic Acid (BHA) works to combat breakouts, blemishes, and irritations.
- PERFECT ADDITION TO YOUR BEAUTY REGIMEN: Apply a few drops to clean skin at night up to three times per week. Let sit for several minutes before continuing with your routine. We recommend wearing SPF during the day when using this product.
- GENTLE ENOUGH FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Powerful enough to bring results and gentle enough for regular use; this serum is suitable for all skin types. Our serum has a pH of 3.5, is fragrance-free, vegan, and was never tested on animals.
No. 4
medicube Toner Pads Zero Pore Pad 2.0 | Dual-Textured Facial Pad for Exfoliation and Pore Care with 4.5% AHA Lactic Acid, 0.45% BHA Salicylic Acid | Ideal for All, Korean Skin Care, 70 Pads (1 Pack)
- Exfoliates and Refines Pores - Perfect for those concerned about enlarged pores, seeking smoother skin, battling greasy skin from excess sebum
- Power of Nature - Dive deep with White Willow Bark (Natural BHA), Citric Acid (AHA), and soothing botanical extracts. Nature's finest ingredients come together for optimal skin clarity.
- Lavender Calmness - Experience therapeutic relaxation with our pads, merging lavender's soothing essence with deep cleansing benefits.
- Transformative Results - Achieve clearer skin with our potent formula: witness a significant reduction in Sebum/Oil by 47.1% and a dramatic decrease in Pore Waste by 87.3%.
- HOW TO USE - After cleansing, swipe with the embossed side, follow with the silky side, and finish by lightly patting for absorption.
No. 5
The Ordinary Bright & Hydrated Serum Duo, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Exfoliating and Hydrating Skincare Set, 1 Fl Oz Each
- POWERFUL DUO FOR CLEAR, RADIANT, SKIN: Fight visible blemishes, dullness, and uneven texture with this skincare set featuring The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. A complete solution to exfoliate, hydrate, and visibly brighten skin.
- DEEP EXFOLIATION: AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a chemical exfoliant combines alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) to help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, reduce acne, and refine skin tone for visibly smoother and clearer skin.
- INTENSE HYDRATION: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum replenishes and locks in moisture with multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5. Boosts skin elasticity and leaves your face feeling soft, plump, and hydrated all day long.
- TARGET BLEMISHES, TEXTURE, DRYNESS: Perfect for acne-prone, dehydrated, or dull skin. This skincare set targets multiple concerns: blemishes, textured skin, fine lines, and dryness, ideal for anyone looking to improve their overall skin health.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Apply AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution to a clean, dry face. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Use ideally in the PM, no more frequently than twice per week. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides) can be applied daily, in the morning and evening for enhanced hydration, barrier support, and smoother skin.
No. 6
SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream - 2.02oz, 60ml - Mild Exfoliating Salicylic Acid & Centella Face Moisturizer for All Skin Types - Daily Soothing & Clarifying Face Cream - Korean Skin Care
- SOME BY MI : SOME BY MI is a compound word of ‘SOMETHING’ and ‘BY A MIRACLE’. Our brand mission is to make products that stick to the essentials of cosmetics, with safe and clean ingredients with proven efficacy. Through our Skincare products, we hope to bring some positive changes and ‘MIRACLES’ to your skin
- MIRACLE CREAM : This non-sticky, refreshing daily soothing cream is concentrated with tea tree leaf water and 4-Cica, which help to soothe sensitive skin quickly and strengthen the skin's barrier. This korean moisturizer is free of 20 types of artificial ingredients and has been dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Keep your skin calm with it
- KEY INGREDIENTS : AHA exfoliates the surface of the skin and can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and improve the skin texture and tone. BHA exfoliates the inside of the pores, help to clear out impurities and excess sebum. PHA is a gentle exfoliator which help to hydrate the skin, brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve the overall texture of the skin
- MIRACLE LINE : MIRACLE Lines are suitable for sensitive skin, containing high amounts of Tea Tree Leaf to improve the skin. This line has optimally mixed AHA, BHA, PHA to refine dead skin cells and impurities, and Truecica, an exclusive calming agent, that maintains healthy-looking skin and refines sebum and skin troubles through pH balance care. Free of 20 harmful ingredients and passed irritation test for sensitive skin
- SOME BY US : We make products with proven efficacy only by undergoing strict testing from the planning & developing stages to product launch, in collaboration with various dermatology experts. If you have any questions about our products, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your satisfaction is the ‘First Priority Goal’ of SOME BY MI
No. 7
SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Body Cleanser 13.5oz – Salicylic Acid & Tea Tree Acne Body Wash – Deep Cleansing, Sulfate & Paraben Free Korean Skin care
- SOME BY MI : SOME BY MI is a compound word of ‘SOMETHING’ and ‘BY A MIRACLE’. Our brand mission is to make products that stick to the essentials of cosmetics, with safe and clean ingredients with proven efficacy. Through our Skincare products, we hope to bring some positive changes and ‘MIRACLES’ to your skin
- MIRACLE BODY CLEANSER : This body cleanser is specifically designed for Body Acne skin and contains AHA, BHA, and PHA, which help to remove dead skin cells, sebum, and skin waste. The product's micro-bubble technology is effective in cleansing pore waste, while natural cleansing surfactants are used to protect sensitive skin. Additionally, the product is free of 20 types of artificial ingredients and has been dermatologically tested for sensitive skin
- KEY INGREDIENTS : It contains SOME BY MI independent TruecicaTM, Eucalyptus, and Houttuynia Cordata Extract, which can help soothe the skin and tighten pores. Additionally, the product's use of natural cleansing surfactants is a key feature, as it helps protect sensitive skin while effectively cleansing the skin of impurities. Finally, the product is designed to keep the skin moisturized after showering
- MIRACLE LINE : MIRACLE Lines are suitable for acne-prone skin, containing high amounts of Tea Tree Leaf to improve the skin. This line has optimally mixed AHA, BHA, PHA to refine dead skin cells and impurities, and Truecica, an exclusive calming agent, that maintains healthy-looking skin and prevents acne-breakout through pH balance care. Free of 20 harmful ingredients and passed irritation test for sensitive skin
- SOME BY US : We make products with proven efficacy only by undergoing strict testing from the planning & developing stages to product launch, in collaboration with various dermatology experts. If you have any questions about our products, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your satisfaction is the ‘First Priority Goal’ of SOME BY MI
No. 8
COSRX AHA/BHA Treatment Toner 5.07 fl.oz/ 150ml, Facial Exfoliating Spray for Whiteheads, Pores, & Uneven Skin, Korean Toner, Not Tested on Animals, Korean Skin Care
- Gentle Exfoliating Toner: Formulated with AHA, BHA, and Purifying Botanical Ingredients, our toner improves skin texture, skin vitality, and control pores.
- Soothes, Refreshes & Softens Skin: 0.1% of AHA Glycolic Acid and BHA Betaine Salicylate helps remove dullness and dead skin cells.
- Made with Natural Ingredients: 10% of Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water and Salix Alba (Willow Bark) Water, our mist type toner is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types.
- Use as a Toner Mask: Saturate a cotton pad with the toner and use as a toner mask for immediate hydration.
- COSRX Standards: All COSRX products are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients that alleviate irritated skin. Hypoallergenic, Dermatologist tested, Animal Testing-FREE, Parabens-FREE, Sulfates-FREE, Phthalates-FRE
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Aha Bha Products
Aha Bha products are great for making your skin look smooth and bright. These ingredients, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), gently remove dead skin cells. This guide helps you pick the right product for your skin.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for Aha Bha products, check these things first:
1. Concentration Levels
- Low Concentration (Under 5%): Good for beginners or sensitive skin. They offer gentle exfoliation.
- Medium Concentration (5% – 10%): Works well for most people to treat dullness or mild acne.
- High Concentration (Above 10%): Best for experienced users tackling rough texture or stubborn breakouts. Use these carefully.
2. Product Type
Aha Bha products come in many forms:
- Toners/Liquids: You apply these after washing your face. They stay on the skin for deeper treatment.
- Cleansers: These wash off quickly. They offer very light exfoliation.
- Serums/Treatments: These are concentrated formulas you leave on the skin for targeted help.
3. Supporting Ingredients
Look for ingredients that help the AHAs and BHAs work better or soothe the skin:
- Hydrators (like Hyaluronic Acid): These keep your skin from drying out.
- Soothing Agents (like Aloe or Niacinamide): These calm down any redness or irritation.
Important Materials (The Acids Themselves)
The effectiveness of the product depends on which acids it uses:
AHA Focus
AHAs work on the skin’s surface. They make your skin look glowing.
- Glycolic Acid: Has a small molecular size, so it penetrates well. It is strong for smoothing wrinkles.
- Lactic Acid: Has a larger molecule size. It is gentler and also helps hydrate the skin.
BHA Focus
BHAs are oil-soluble. This means they can get deep inside your pores.
- Salicylic Acid: This is the main BHA. It fights blackheads, whiteheads, and acne very effectively.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a product good or bad often comes down to formulation and how you use it.
Quality Boosters:
- Proper pH Level: For AHAs and BHAs to work, the product needs the right acidity (low pH). Well-made products balance this correctly.
- Stable Packaging: Air and light can break down these acids. Dark, airtight bottles keep the ingredients strong.
Quality Reducers:
- Too Many Harsh Additives: If a product is packed with strong fragrances or drying alcohols alongside the acids, it can cause too much irritation.
- Using It Too Often: Over-exfoliating strips your skin barrier. This reduces the product’s quality because it harms your skin instead of helping it.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your Aha Bha product changes the experience.
For Brightening and Texture:
If your goal is glowing skin, use a product focused more on AHAs (like Glycolic Acid) maybe two to three times a week. Apply it at night.
For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin:
If you struggle with clogged pores, choose a BHA-heavy product. Use it whenever you feel oily or notice breakouts starting. The BHA cleans out the pore linings.
Sensitive Skin Users:
Start slow! Use the product only once a week. Always follow up with a good moisturizer. If your skin stings painfully or turns very red, stop using it immediately.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Aha Bha Products
Q: What is the main difference between AHA and BHA?
A: AHAs work on the skin surface to brighten, while BHAs go inside the pores to clear oil and dirt.
Q: Should I use AHA and BHA products together?
A: Many products combine them safely. If you use separate products, use the AHA product at night and the BHA product in the morning, or alternate days.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: You might see smoother skin in a few weeks. For deeper issues like dark spots, it might take two to three months of consistent use.
Q: Can I use Aha Bha products every day?
A: Beginners should not. Most people get the best results using them three to four times a week. Daily use is usually too much unless the concentration is very low.
Q: Is it safe to use Aha Bha products with Vitamin C?
A: Yes, but be careful. Use them at different times of the day (like Vitamin C in the morning, acids at night) to prevent irritation.
Q: Do I need to wear sunscreen when using these products?
A: Absolutely! AHAs and BHAs make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Sunscreen is mandatory every morning.
Q: Will these products cause purging?
A: Sometimes, especially with BHA. Purging means a temporary increase in small breakouts as the product clears out deep clogs. This usually lasts less than six weeks.
Q: Which acid is better for dry skin?
A: Lactic Acid (an AHA) is often better for dry skin because it also provides hydration.
Q: What should I do if my skin feels too dry or tight?
A: Reduce how often you use the product. Add a hydrating serum or a thicker moisturizer right after you apply the acid product.
Q: Are Aha Bha products good for mature skin?
A: Yes. AHAs help reduce the look of fine lines by encouraging cell turnover, making them excellent for mature skin care routines.