Products are independently selected by our editors.
We may earn an affiliate commission from links.
Richard Bottiglione, board-certified dermatologist for 50 years and founder ofDermatologists Choice Skincare.
Photo: Courtesy of Iulia David
Thats because BHAs are lipophobic, or oil soluble.
Anetta Reszko, board-certified dermatologist in New York, NY.
In addition to having pore-decongesting and skin-resurfacing properties, BHAs are also anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial.
Sean Alemi, double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York, NY.
Those with more experience with acids understand what works best for their skin.
Typically, over-the-counter products feature 0.5 to two percent salicylic acid.
At 0.5%, the ingredient will still provide mild exfoliation benefits without disrupting sensitive or reactive skin.
In rare cases, youll see higher concentrations.
(It should go without saying: do not use the latter as a full-face peel.)
If your skin tolerates it well, go ahead and commit to full-face software.
Just because you get red at first doesnt mean to stop using the acid all together, he adds.
You may need a milder concentration or may need to work on building your tolerance.
First, theres the format.
Then, check out what other ingredients are in the formula.
BHA will help those ingredients penetrate deeper, notes Dr. Bottiglione.
Theres one last thing to keep in mind when shopping for a BHA exfoliantthe pH level.
Is it safe to use BHAs every day?
This can lead to over-exfoliation and skin barrier damage, says Dr. Alemi.
Chemical exfoliants increase skin sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation and potential photoaging, says Dr. Reszko.
What ingredients should not be applied with BHAs?
