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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.
Fine lines are the delicate lines that form on delicate skin (like the face), as collagen and elastin decrease. These shallow lines can appear when the skin is dehydrated or as a result of sun damage. They can also be among the first signs of skin aging and, if they deepen over time, can be the precursor to wrinkles. Usually found around the eyes, lips, and forehead, fine lines can appear anywhere that expressive facial movement are regularly repeated—such as smiling, squinting and furrowing the brows.
To prevent fine lines and wrinkles, 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 rosehip oil, jojoba oil, red tea extract, retinol/vitamin A, coenzyme Q10, glycolic acid and salicylic acid are all beneficial for preventing and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides and ingredients that boost the production of collagen like vitamin C are good for boosting the plumpness of skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
BHA (beta hydroxy acid) may be effective for fine lines, 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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