What are AHAs & BHAs anyway?

AHAs and BHAs sound like something you were supposed to learn about in 9th grade chemistry class. Don't panic, babe. Here's the breakdown.

Both are chemical exfoliants that brighten and clear your skin. While a scrub physically exfoliates, AHAs and BHAs exfoliate by breaking up the bonds that hold your skin cells together. They're the actives that are doing the most, #letsbefrank. Now put on your lab coat. Or your bathrobe. Or nothing at all.

What are AHAs?

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) come from sugarcane and other sugary fruits. They're water-soluble, which means they work on your skin's surface. Most skincare junkies have at least one lactic acid or glycolic acid product on their shelf by now. My Smoothing AHA Body Lotion and Glycolic Body Scrub are packed with both.

The benefits of AHAs

The secret to a glowing complexion. While AHAs don't go deep into the pores, they gently slough away the dead skin that leaves you looking dull. Babes dealing with fine lines, hyperpigmentation, scars, and uneven skin tone will like lactic and glycolic acids the most.

What are BHAs?

BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) are derived from bark and leaves, and are oil-soluble. That means they're best suited for babes with oily or combination skin. Compared with AHAs, BHAs exfoliate at a deeper level to remove dead skin cells and excess sebum. The most common BHA? Salicylic acid. Acne's worst nightmare. My Triple Acid Body Wash combines salicylic acid with glycolic and lactic to cover all bases in one go.

The benefits of BHAs

BHAs go deep beneath the surface to clear out congestion: oil, bacteria, and other pore-blocking impurities. The result is less redness, inflammation, and blemishes over time.

Ready to get active?

AHAs and BHAs are the ultimate overachievers. They unclog pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, help fade fine lines, and reduce redness and dark spots while you sit back and relax. What can't they do.

Before you dive in: exfoliate only a few times a week, and always wear your SPF. Now get off the treadmill, babe, and get active with me instead.

x frank