AHA vs. BHA: What’s the Difference, and Why Should You Use Them?

If you want healthy-looking, radiant skin, exfoliating should be in your skincare repertoire. But getting rid of dead skin cells doesn’t just refer to those scrubby, gritty formulas we’ve grown accustomed to. In fact, there are two forms of exfoliating acids that can make sifting through the plethora of options feel more like a daunting task than a fun trip to the skincare aisle. There are AHAs and BHAs, and while neither acid is better than the other, they target different needs and skin types. Plus, many exfoliants combine both ingredients, allowing you to tackle multiple skin concerns at once (more on that later).

True, our skin goes through a natural exfoliating process daily, but with a lack of sun protection and age, that process of shedding tends to slow down—or end altogether. So, a little help from some exfoliating products is often needed for glowy skin. Knowing exactly what these exfoliating acids are, how they differ, and exactly what their glow-worthy benefits are can help you attain the skin of your dreams. To get some intel, we tapped two board-certified dermatologists for some insight: Kenneth Howe and Orit Markowitz.

Meet the Expert

• Kenneth Howe is a board-certified dermatologist in NYC.
• Orit Markowitz is a New York-based board-certified dermatologist at OptiSkin.

Use this easy-to-follow guide to figure out the differences between AHA and BHA and how to choose the right option for your skin.