BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

Best

Exfoliant

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) at a glance

  • Also known as salicylic acid
  • Best known for exfoliating/anti-blemishes properties
  • Helps skin shed in a manner that mimics youthful skin
  • Works most effectively in leave-on formulas with a pH range between 3-4
  • Oil solubility lets it exfoliate inside the pore to alleviate breakouts, congestion, and blackheads

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) description

BHA is an acronym for beta hydroxy acid, which is more commonly known as salicylic acid. Salicylic acid (also called beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a desmolytic ingredient, which means it is able to exfoliate by dissolving the bonds that hold the dead cells to skin’s surface. Because salicylic acid is oil soluble, it also has the ability to penetrate into the pore lining and exfoliate inside the pore. This makes it especially effective for reducing breakouts, including blackheads and whiteheads. Salicylic acid is recognised as a topical exfoliating ingredient by the European Union/ United Kingdom. Even though salicylic acid is best known for its ability to address acne-prone skin concerns, it offers many additional properties that any skin type can benefit from. Case in point, by exfoliating the build-up of dead skin on the surface, it also helps reverse the appearance of dull, uneven skin tone, as well as other visible signs of ageing skin. Unlike physical exfoliants (such as a rough facial scrub), salicylic acid offers hydrating properties that enhance the result of smooth, soft skin. Another unique advantage is salicylic acid’s ability to gently soothe aggravated skin thanks to its inherent calming properties. Salicylic acids works most effectively as a leave-on treatment, ideally within a pH range between 3 and 4. Rinse-off salicylic acid cleansers typically have a higher pH, which likely won’t offer much of an exfoliation benefit. Not to mention the contact time with skin is very brief - but the salicylic acid may at least offer skin-calming benefits in this form and can be included in amounts as low as 0.5% to achieve this benefit. Research shows using salicylic acid at a 1-2% concentration is recommended for regular exfoliation within a skin care routine. Salicylic acid has been found to be safe on all skin tones and ethnicities. Note that BHA is the structural name for salicylic acid and is completely unrelated to the preservative ingredient BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole).

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) references

  • Experimental Dermatology, July 2019, pages 786-794
  • European Commission Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, June 2019, pages 1-70
  • Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, April 2018, pages 245-251
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, January-February 2017, pages 55-58
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, August 2015, pages 455-461
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, November 2010, pages 135-142
  • Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, September 2008, pages 170-176
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, April 2007, pages 651-663
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, February 2000, pages 21-52
  • Seminars in Dermatology, December 1990, pages 305-308

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.