What’s the Difference Between AHA and BHA — and Which One Should I Use – FWBEAUTY

If you’ve ever asked, “What’s the difference between AHA and BHA?” — you’re not alone. These two exfoliating acids often show up in modern skincare, but they work very differently.

Whether you’re dealing with dullness, breakouts, or uneven texture, understanding how AHAs and BHAs work can help you make smarter skincare choices — especially if you prefer natural alternatives like those offered by FWBEAUTY.

🧪 What Are AHAs?

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are water-soluble acids derived from fruits or milk. They work on the surface of the skinto:

Remove dead skin cells
Improve texture and radiance
Fade dark spots and pigmentation
Boost collagen over time

Popular AHAs:

Glycolic Acid (strongest, from sugar cane)
Lactic Acid (gentler, from milk)
Citric Acid (brightens, from citrus fruits)

Best for: Dry, dull, uneven skin tone.

🧼 What Are BHAs?

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble acids that penetrate deeper into the pores, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.

Benefits:

Dissolve excess oil
Clear clogged pores and blackheads
Calm redness and inflammation
Reduce breakouts

Most common BHA:

Salicylic Acid (from willow bark)

Best for: Oily, acne-prone, congested skin.

⚖️ So... AHA or BHA — Which One Should You Use?

Skin Concern	Choose AHA	Choose BHA
Dullness	✅ Glycolic or lactic acid	—
Uneven Texture	✅ Smooths surface	✅ Clears congestion
Breakouts / Acne	—	✅ Salicylic acid
Hyperpigmentation	✅ Fades marks	✅ Prevents post-acne marks
Sensitive Skin	✅ Lactic acid (gentle)	⚠️ Use BHA sparingly

Tip: You don’t always need harsh acids. Nature offers alternatives — and FWBEAUTY’s got you covered.

🌿 FWBEAUTY’s Natural Approach to Exfoliation

Instead of relying on synthetic acids, FWBEAUTY offers gentle, botanical-based exfoliation using ancient ingredients:

✨ Rice Powder Brightening Cleanser

Enzyme-rich rice powder
Fine natural grains polish the skin
Softens texture without damaging barrier
Ideal for daily or 2–3x weekly use

🌱 Neem & Saffron Powder Cleansers

Antibacterial properties from neem
Helps unclog pores and calm breakouts
Perfect for oily and blemish-prone skin

These powders mimic AHA/BHA results — smoother skin, fewer breakouts — without over-exfoliating or causing redness.

🧖♀️ How to Use FWBEAUTY's Exfoliating Powders

Wet your hands and sprinkle a small amount of powder
Lather into a creamy foam
Gently massage over face
Rinse and follow with toner or serum

⚠️ What to Avoid with AHAs & BHAs

Using both together unless skin is tolerant
Skipping SPF (AHAs increase sun sensitivity)
Overdoing exfoliation — 2–3x a week is enough for most
Combining with retinol or strong actives on the same day

✨ In Summary

AHAs exfoliate the surface, BHAs clean out pores — both powerful, but not always necessary daily.

At FWBEAUTY, we believe in slow beauty and skin nourishment, not over-processing. That’s why our enzyme-rich powder cleansers offer gentle exfoliation inspired by traditional rituals — with real results.