AHA, BHA or PHA —
which one to choose for your skin
You've spotted an AHA toner, a BHA serum, a PHA pad — and you can't decide. Good news: there's no "best" acid for everyone. The right choice depends on your skin type, your tolerance and your priorities.
AHA, BHA or PHA: what's the difference?
They're all chemical exfoliants that help the skin shed dead cells. What sets them apart is their molecular size, where they act and how gentle they are.
AHAs (glycolic, lactic) work on the surface — radiance, skin texture, light pigmentation marks. BHAs (salicylic) are oil-soluble and penetrate into the pores — perfect against excess sebum and blackheads. PHAs, with a larger molecule, exfoliate more gently — often better tolerated by reactive skin.
When to choose AHAs
If your goal is to bring back radiance or refine skin texture, AHAs are a good starting point. Glycolic acid is the most "active" but also the most likely to tingle; lactic acid is more comfortable and better supports hydration.
When to choose BHAs
If you recognise yourself in quick shine, visible pores or blackheads, BHA is often the most relevant — it works right where sebum builds up.
When to choose PHAs
If your skin reacts quickly, feels tight easily or you're a complete beginner, PHAs may be the smartest choice. The results are less spectacular at first, but the benefit lies elsewhere: more consistency, less risk of irritation.
AHA, BHA or PHA for your skin type
Dry, dull skin: AHAs have the edge, or a gentle lactic acid if your skin is also sensitive. Oily, blemish-prone skin: BHA remains the benchmark. Combination skin: AHA for radiance, BHA for a congested T-zone. Sensitive skin: PHA is the most reassuring — calm skin progresses better than over-stimulated skin.
How to add them without irritating your skin
The most common mistake isn't choosing the wrong acid — it's going too fast. Start with two to three applications a week, in the evening, on clean, dry skin.
And of course, daytime sun protection is non-negotiable. Exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV.
- AHA for radiance and skin texture
- BHA for pores and blemishes
- PHA to start gently or for reactive skin
- See the full Exfoliants collection →
- All three acids exfoliate, but at different depths and intensities.
- AHA = radiance and texture. BHA = pores and sebum. PHA = gentleness and tolerance.
- The right pace is the one your skin tolerates over several weeks, not the most ambitious one on paper.
- SPF is essential as soon as you introduce an exfoliating acid.
- The best exfoliant isn't the strongest — it's the one you use consistently.
At Haru & Bom, we help you find the acid that truly suits your skin, not the trendiest one. Discover our exfoliants →
