What is the difference between alpha and beta hydroxy

People can find hydroxy acids in higher concentrations in chemical peels used for treating calluses, acne, photoaging, skin growths, and psoriasis. AHAs and BHAs are both exfoliants, but each hydroxy acid has other properties that make it more appropriate for treating certain skin conditions or improving certain skin features. Compared with the AHA glycolic acid, salicylic acid causes less irritation. AHAs provide more aggressive exfoliation, which may be more appropriate for repairing sun-damaged skin and improving the effects of aging.

They also have effects on collagen and procollagen production. These are substances that can improve the appearance of photoaged skin. Since AHAs are more aggressive, their use requires caution because of the potential for sun sensitivity. A person should base their choice of skin product on which hydroxy acid is most suitable for their specific need.

BHA seems to be more effective for treating skin conditions like acne because of its antibacterial properties. AHAs, such as glycolic and lactic acid, may be effective in treating changes in skin color such as melasma, solar lentigines, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Experts believe that the quicker action of AHA makes it a better option for improving skin color than BHA-containing products. Lactic acid, another AHA, is an excellent moisturizer. However, it is worth noting that much of the existing research appears gathered from studies whose participants had lighter skin tones. The safety and effectiveness of these products in populations with darker skin tones requires further study.

Products that contain AHAs report several benefits , such as:. AHAs work by exfoliating the skin. Exfoliation sheds surface skin cells. How much a product with AHAs exfoliates the skin depends on the concentration of the AHA ingredient, its acidity, and other ingredients found in it. Using AHAs comes with certain side effects. Most often, these side effects occur in skin peeling products. Side effects are local, meaning they affect the area of skin where the product was applied.

They may include:. Be aware of any warnings on the product label. Hydroxy acids are organic compounds both having a carboxylic acid group and a hydroxyl group in the same molecule. The carbon atoms to which these functional groups are attached are in close proximity. Therefore, we can name them as alpha, beta or gamma, according to the number of carbon atoms that separate these functional groups.

Let us discuss more details in the below text. Overview and Key Difference 2. What are Alpha Hydroxy Acids 3. What are Beta Hydroxy Acids 4. Alpha hydroxy acids AHAs are organic chemical compounds having a carboxylic acid group substituted with a hydroxyl group on the adjacent carbon atom.

That means one carbon atom separates these the two functional groups, carboxylic acid group -COOH and hydroxyl group -OH. Beta hydroxy acids are lipid-soluble substances, meaning that they are able to penetrate the skin through sebaceous glands. While alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids have some similarities, each has distinct purposes in skincare. For oily and acne-prone skin types, use a product with salicylic acid, a BHA, to help balance oil and control acne.

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