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BHA is an abbreviation for beta hydroxy acid, also known as salicylic acid. Don’t let the word ‘acid’ put you off. BHA is not corrosive or abrasive and actually has soothing properties. Making it much kinder on your skin than scrubs and cleansing brushes.
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic, meaning it dissolves the bonds that hold skin cells together and helps them to shed away more effectively. It's naturally occurring in white willow bark and wintergreen, but most of the salicylic acid used today is synthesized.
Salicylic acid is especially helpful in treating acne because of its ability to penetrate the follicle. It encourages the shedding of dead skin cells from within the follicle, helping keep the pores clear. And keeping the pores clear is the first step in getting all types of blemishes under control. It works best against non-inflamed breakouts, and blackheads.
Salicylic acid has other benefits, too. It helps to decrease oil and inflammation.
Most people can use salicylic acid without any big problems, but people with sensitive skin may suffer from skin irritation when using a high concentration of salicylic acid.
Healthy skin is typically described as being bright and glowing. Dull skin, on the other hand, refers to an overall unhealthy pallor – ashy, gray, or very pale yellowish. Overly dry skin can cause damage to the follicles and production of collagen and sebum, which can cause the skin to appear duller or ashy. Also, when dead skin cells don’t naturally shed properly, they clog the pores and can cause a dullness to the skin.
To prevent damage to skin cells that cause your complexion to dull, it’s best to moisturize daily and wear sunscreen. Additionally, antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals that damage cells and speed up aging. Ingredients and nutrients like vitamin C, rosehip oil, jojoba oil, green tea extract, retinol/vitamin A, coenzyme Q10, vitamin B, alpha-hydroxy acid and salicylic acid are all beneficial for preventing and reducing dullness. Hydrolyzed collagen is good for boosting the plumpness of skin and enhancing the appearance of damaged skin by restoring the overall vitality of the skin.
BHA (beta hydroxy acid) may be effective for dullness, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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