AHAs are preferred for those whose chief concerns is sun damage because they primarily exfoliate skin’s uppermost layers.
BHA is ideal for treating acne-prone skin, blackheads, enlarged pores, and milia due to its ability to penetrate the oil that’s clogging your pores.
BHA has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action. That’s two more reasons to use a BHA exfoliant if you have acne or sensitive, reddened skin.
BHA is preferred for those struggling with rosacea. Not everyone who has rosacea-prone skin can tolerate an exfoliant, but those who can will see reduced redness and smoother skin. (Salicylic acid’s antimicrobial action also may benefit rosacea because there’s some research suggesting that certain microbes on skin may be causing or contributing to the disorder.)
>>Tips on Getting the Most from Your AHA or BHA Exfoliant
AHA and BHA exfoliants work best when applied on clean skin, following your preferred Paula's Choice toner.
If you’re using topical prescription products for rosacea or acne, apply the AHA or BHA exfoliant first, and then follow with your medications from lightest to heaviest texture. Some people will find their skin doesn’t tolerate a topical retinoid along with an AHA or BHA, but for others it can provide brilliant results, so it’s definitely worth seeing if this combination works for you.
