Skincare enthusiasts know that exfoliating products are a game-changer when it comes to maintaining a glowy, healthy-looking complexion. For the uninitiated, exfoliating helps remove dead surface skin cells, which can help improve skin tone and texture, both immediately and over time. While there are a couple of different ways to exfoliate, using chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) tends to be the gentlest approach. These versatile ingredients can help diminish the appearance of enlarged pores, address the visible signs of aging, and diminish dullness—and they can be found in a wide range of skincare products, from daily cleansers and moisturizers to targeted at-home peels. If you’re looking to level up your routine but aren’t sure where to start, keep reading. Ahead, we’ll explain the differences between AHAs and BHAs and introduce you to some of our favorite products featuring these powerhouse ingredients.What Are AHAs and What Do They Do For Your Skin? Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of naturally occurring acids used in skincare products to help gently remove dead skin cells, brighten the skin, and address some visible signs of aging. There are many different types of AHAs; glycolic acid and lactic acid are among the most well-known and commonly used in cosmetics. You can find AHAs in a wide array of products, including cleansers, toners, serums, and moisturizers. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), their strengths can vary greatly from product to product. Keep in mind that while AHAs can be a useful addition to your skincare routine, they may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. When using an AHA product, you’ll want to be extra diligent about your sun protection to help shield your skin from sunburns and sun damage.Our Favorite Skincare Products with AHAsThere is no one-size-fits-all approach when seeking out the best AHA product to add to your routine—you’ll want to select a formula that aligns with your skin type and concerns. To help get you started on your search, here are five AHA products that we love.
