Certain skin types are harder to manage and due to this finding, the right skincare products for these skin types can be a challenge. Oily and acne prone skin are two of these skin types. To treat oily and acne prone skin properly you must deal with the root causes of these conditions. Finding and treating the underlying causes of these skin conditions can be hard with so many ingredients available in the market to choose from.
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) is one of the ingredients that can be classified as a game changer when it comes to oily and acne prone skin. BHA can penetrate deep into the pores and cleanse the pores. Due to this ability BHA has become an essential ingredient in many acne treatments. Let’s now find out why BHA is so effective for oily and acne prone skin and how it works.
What is BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)?
We have discussed in a previous article about what BHA is exactly in details but here we will define it again. BHA is essentially a chemical exfoliant. Unlike AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) which are water-soluble and work mainly on the surface of the skin, BHA is oil soluble. Being oil soluble enables BHA to penetrate deeper into the skin and break down oil and debris in deeper tissues. Oil and debris deep in the skin can lead to clogged pores, blackheads, and acne. Salicylic Acid is the most used BHA is skincare products and it has been used for centuries due to its anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties.
Glycolic acid and lactic acid which are in AHA can exfoliate the surface of the skin and improve texture, but they cannot penetrate deep into the skin. BHA can target the root causes of acne by being able to penetrate deep into the skin. Therefor BHA are ideal for individuals with acne and skin that produces excessive oil.
How Does BHA Work for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin?
Being able to penetrate deeply into the skin is the main reason BHA are so effective when it comes to treating oily and acne prone skin. Let’s now look at how they work.
Deep Penetration into Pores
Being an oil-soluble enables BHA to penetrate deeply into the skin. Once BHA has been able to enter the deep tissues of the skin it is able to get rid and dissolve excessive sebum. In addition, by entering the deep tissues of the skin it can clear out dead skin cells, debris and other impurities that cause pores to be clogged. Clogged pores create the ideal environment for the growth of bacteria which can lead to acne. By being able to clear the build-up of these impurities in the skin BHA can help to prevent acne even before it starts.
Exfoliating the Surface of the skin
Another great thing about BHA in addition to their ability to penetrate deeply into the skin is their ability to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin. By exfoliating the outer layer BHA help with removal of dead skin cells that can be collected on the surface of the skin. The accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin can lead to dullness and rough skin texture. The skin surface becomes smoother by regular exfoliation using BHA. In addition, the risk of clogged pores decreases which in the long-term leads to healthier skin!
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Salicylic acid in BHA is particularly well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Redness, irritation, and swelling are often the results of acne. Salicylic acid has the capability of reducing inflammation and reduce the possibility of breakouts. Due to this BHA are a very useful ingredient when it comes to treating inflammatory acne such as papules and pustules.
Decreasing Oil Production
Being able to balance the oil production in the skin is another ability of BHA. BHA can control the production of sebum and not remove the skin of its natural moisture. This helps the skin from becoming too oily. By controlling the oil production balance BHA can help to decrease the shine and greasiness that come with oily skin.
Prevents and Reduces Blackheads and Whiteheads
When the pores on the skin are clogged with a mixture of sebum and dead skin cells blackheads and whitehead are formed. BHA can penetrate deeply into the skin and dissolve the blockage of pores.
What Makes BHA Especially Beneficial for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
We have tried so far to explain in details how BHA work. Now that we have been able to understand how they work is time to see why they are so beneficial for oily and acne prone skin.
Targets the Root Causes of Acne
One of the main causes of acne is oily skin. The mixture of excessive oil produced by sebaceous glands and dead skin cells cause the pores to be clogged. Bacteria can grow when this happens, and it can lead to the formation of pimples and blackheads. Due to the ability of BHA to penetrate deep into the skin and break down the oil in the pores it directly treats the main cause of acne and oily skin!
Deep-Cleansing Without Over-Drying
Many acne treatments remove the natural oils that are on the skin for protection leading to dry skin. A great thing about BHA is that they do not do this. When the skin is over dried in those with oily skin an overproduction of sebum occurs. This overproduction of sebum leads to excessive oil and acne. BHA have the ability to maintain the skin’s natural moisture and ensure it does not overproduce excessive oil while at the same time exfoliating the skin.
BHA Can Be Used on Sensitive Skin
Many individuals with sensitive skin can be prone to skin irritation when using acne treatments. BHA are great for those with sensitive skin since they can tolerate it. Irritation, redness, and swelling can be calmed due to the anti-inflammatory properties found in BHA. Therefor for those with sensitive skin BHA is a great ingredient.
How to Incorporate BHA into Your Skincare Routine
The success in skin care is based on consistency. This applies also when using BHA. When it comes to incorporating BHA into your skincare routine start slow. Start with a product that has a lower concertation and gradually build the skin’s tolerance. Using BHA too much or with high concertation can lead to irritations. In addition, use it once or twice per day. In most cases most people can use BHA once or twice per day. In those with sensitive skin is best to start every other day and gradually increase frequency.
Also, when using BHA apply it after cleansing your skin. You can find BHA in products such as toners, serums and exfoliants which you can apply to your skin after cleansing. After having applied BHA use a hydrating moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Finally make sure to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage.
Conclusion
BHA and more specifically salicylic acid have shown to be a game changer for those with acne prone skin and oily skin. Due to its ability to penetrate deep into the skin and break down oil, impurities, and dead skin cells BHA can exfoliate and calm the skin at the same time. By controlling oil production and reducing inflammation BHA can address the root causes of acne and oily skin. BHA can help to keep the skin clear, smooth, and balanced. BHA is a great ingredient for those with occasional breakouts and chronic acne. It can clear the skin and make the skin healthier over time.
