We’ve spoken about alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) – among many other skincare ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil – on the blog before, but now it’s the turn of beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).

From the benefits of BHA to how we incorporate it into our toner and moisturiser, find out all you need to know about beta hydroxy acids.

What is beta hydroxy acid?

Beta hydroxy acid (BHA) is a form of organic mild acid. In the world of skincare, BHA usually refers to salicylic acid, a widely used exfoliant and acne targeting ingredient.

This skincare ingredient is used in products to unclog pores, treat acne, reduce blackheads, and improve skin texture. BHAs also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making them ideal for oily, acne-prone, or congested skin types.

They exfoliate both on the skin's surface and within the pores, promoting clearer, smoother skin while reducing redness and pore size.

There’s a reason why BHAs are so popular in skincare products, and it’s a result of their multifaceted benefits.

BHA skin benefits

1. Effectively exfoliates the skin

BHAs exfoliate the skin by loosening dead skin cells on the surface of your skin and within your pores, promoting a smoother, clearer complexion.

This ingredient is known as a chemical exfoliant, rather than a physical exfoliant. For example, our Natural Face Scrub uses upcycled coffee grounds from London cafés to physically exfoliate the skin.

In order to exfoliate the skin, BHAs rely on several mechanisms. They loosen the ‘glue’ (lipids) that hold dead skin cells together on the surface of the skin, allowing this dead skin to shed naturally, revealing smoother, brighter skin beneath.

BHAs have a keratolytic effect, meaning they break down keratin – a protein that can accumulate and clog your pores. This helps to clear pores and prevent any build-up that can lead to blemishes.

In encouraging the removal of dead skin cells, BHAs stimulate cell turnover. This in turn helps your skin to regenerate more efficiently, improving its overall texture and appearance.

2. Unclogs pores

Penetrating deeply into the skin, BHAs work to dissolve excess sebum. Not only that, beta hydroxy acids also help to control your skin’s production of oil.

BHAs are oil-soluble, meaning they can penetrate into sebum (oil) filled pores. Due to the keratolytic nature of BHAs, they can break down the keratin which often ‘plugs’ pores.

3. Smooths skin texture

While skin texture is just a part of being human, some people feel self conscious about it. BHAs are exfoliants, and exfoliation promotes cell turnover. This process helps to smooth rough skin and reduce the appearance of bumps.

4. Reduces acne

One of the most common BHAs, salicylic acid, has both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, swelling, and acne breakouts.

AHA vs BHA skincare

While they sound the same and are both exfoliating ingredients, AHAs and BHAs are different.

AHAs are organic acids which are typically used as chemical exfoliants, removing dead skin cells to reveal newer, brighter skin. The main types of AHAs are glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid and citric acid. When used in skincare, AHAs are often synthetically made. 

AHAs are water-soluble, whereas BHAs are oil-soluble. This means that BHAs are able to penetrate oils on the skin, making them especially great for people with oily and acne-prone skin. 

If you’re struggling with persistent breakouts and particularly oily skin, a BHA is likely a better option for you than an AHA. 

It’s also important to consider how your skin changes throughout the seasons, with your skin’s needs changing in response to different temperatures and weather climates. For example, it’s particularly important to use gentle exfoliating products in winter. This might mean steering clear of AHAs and relying on BHAs and gentle physical exfoliants to slough off any dry skin.

Incorporating BHA skincare into your routine

If you’re hoping to make the most of the acne-busting benefits of beta hydroxy acids, you can incorporate it into your routine in various ways. At UpCircle, we incorporate salicylic acid – a form of BHA – into some of our formulations to promote clearer, smoother skin.

Face Toner with Hyaluronic Acid

Formulated with BHA salicylic acid, our balancing Face Toner works to help clear pores and keep blackheads at bay. This toner helps to brighten the skin and leave you feeling refreshed. 

Skin-loving glycerin helps to plump the skin and keep your complexion smooth. An effective humectant, glycerin helps your skin to retain moisture, boosting its hydration.

We recommend using the toner after cleansing your skin with an oil-based cleanser and then a water-based cleanser. Spritz over the skin, or apply to your fingertips or a cleansing pad and sweep over the skin. 

How to use: YouTube Tutorial

Face Mosituriser with Vitamin E

Our award-winning deeply hydrating Face Moisturiser helps to nourish and brighten the skin. Fast-absorbing, vitamin E rich argan powder is combined with skin-soothing cocoa butter, aloe vera and blood orange in this skin-supporting blend.

This moisturiser is also formulated with salicylic acid, supporting a smoother skin texture and reduced acne.

How to use: Apply to clean, dry skin. Massage the moisturiser into your skin until the cream absorbs. Suitable for all skin types and for daily use. YouTube Tutorial.

Discover our full range of skincare products, formulated to support your skin barrier.