What Are Exfoliating Acids? A Complete Guide

🧴What Are Exfoliating Acids? A Scientific Guide to AHA, BHA & PHA

Exfoliating acids have become essential in modern skincare but they are also one of the most misunderstood product categories.

Many customers ask us:

“What exactly are exfoliating acids, and should I use them?”

Let’s break it down, the Dermalucilab way: simple, scientific, and barrier-friendly.

 

🧪 What Are Exfoliating Acids?

Exfoliating acids are chemical exfoliants that remove dead skin cells without scrubbing, improving texture, radiance, and clarity.

They belong to three main families:

✔ AHA – Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the surface of the skin.

Common ones:

• Glycolic acid
• Lactic acid
• Mandelic acid

Best for:

• Dullness
• Uneven texture
• Dry skin
• Fine lines

 

✔ BHA – Beta Hydroxy Acids

Oil-soluble acids that exfoliate inside the pores.

Main one:

• Salicylic acid

Best for:

• Oily skin
• Blackheads
• Congested pores
• Acne-prone skin

 

✔ PHA – Polyhydroxy Acids

Gentler acids with larger molecules → minimal irritation.

Common ones:

• Gluconolactone
• Lactobionic acid

Best for:

• Sensitive skin
• Dehydrated skin
• First-time exfoliators

 

🌿Why Exfoliating Acids Work

They accelerate skin renewal, improving:

• Radiance
• Hydration (in some AHAs)
• Pigmentation
• Texture
• Fine lines
• Breakouts

This process is similar to that of retinol, but it works on different layers. That’s why Dermalucilab recommends not mixing both on the same night.

 

🔬 How Often Should You Use Exfoliating Acids?

✔ Beginners:

1–2 nights per week

✔ Intermediate:

2–3 nights per week

✔ Sensitive skin:

Once a week or PHAs only

✔ Never use daily unless recommended by a dermatologist

⚠️ When NOT to Use Acids

• If your skin is red, inflamed, or irritated
• If you’re starting retinol
• After laser or dermatological procedures

For stressed or reactive skin, Dermalucilab highlights the power of adaptogens in:
👉 How Stress Accelerates Skin Aging

 ☀️ SPF + Acids = Non-Negotiable

Exfoliating acids make the skin more photosensitive.
Dermalucilab explains it clearly in:
👉 How Many Skincare Products Do You Really Need?

 🧬 Peptides + Acids: A Perfect Combination

After a night of exfoliation, repairing ingredients—like peptides—help strengthen the skin barrier.

Read more at:

👉 Antioxidants for Skin Health – Vitamin C, Niacinamide & More

📝  Exfoliating Acids Checklist

• I know whether I’m using AHA, BHA or PHA
• I exfoliate 1–3 nights per week
• I avoid mixing acids with retinol
• I apply SPF every morning
• I hydrate after exfoliation

 ❓  FAQs

1. Are exfoliating acids safe for sensitive skin?
PHAs are the best option.

2. Can I use acids and retinol together?
Not on the same night.

3. Can exfoliating acids remove dark spots?
Yes, especially AHAs.

4. Do I need a scrub if I use acids?
No, chemical exfoliation replaces physical scrubs.

5. Do acids thin the skin?
No, they improve renewal and thickness of deeper layers over time.