When it comes to utmost skin care and rejuvenation, exfoliation is a must. And with the best AHA-BHA products, you can tap the potential of gradual, cosmetically elegant exfoliation, less aggravating on the skin, and more fruitful in the long run.

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, products infused with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) offer a plethora of benefits to the skin. The primary advantage of AHAs and BHAs in skincare, of course, is their exfoliating properties but they also offer many skin-nourishing after-effects. They help in the removal of dead skin cells from the skin's surface and thereby promote cell turnover for skin renewal, resulting in softer, smoother, and fresher-looking skin. 

Another study by Molecules - MDPI on the effects of AHAs like glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid on the skin claims that such chemical agents are used extensively in cosmetic formulations to attain tighter and glowing skin. Moreover, they are naturally occurring organic acids present in many foods and milk sugars. 

Extensive research by Clinical, Cosmetic, And Investigational Dermatology suggests that hydroxy acids are commonly used in concentrations ranging between 2% to 70%. This concentration level is very much suitable for treating acne, ichthyosis, keratoses, warts, psoriasis, photoaged skin, and other disorders. Topping it all off, skincare products with AHA contribute to improving your overall skin texture by reducing fine lines, rough patches, and wrinkles, while products with BHA help maintain oil balance for healthy skin homeostasis.

Well, there is so much more to discuss and elaborate. But don’t fret! If you wish to witness the skin-rejuvenating properties of AHAs and BHAs through skincare products, then look no further! We have curated a list of expert-coveted picks to help you make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

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  Best Overall

  The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

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With the Ordinary’s Peeling Solution, you can revitalize your skin seamlessly and indulge in a 10-minute exfoliating facial. With 30% AHA, 2% BHA, and Tasmanian pepper berry derivatives, this AHA and BHA exfoliator works on night duty to reduce skin irritation and lends you an instant glow the next morning. 

What’s highly impressive is the fact that the solution works on the skin surface level as well as penetrates deeper into the skin, ensuring no clogged pores, and congestion. Honestly, this one is a real deal for taking good care of your skin.

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, Tasmanian pepper berry, salicylic acid, lactic acid, panthenol, and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer

Skin Type: Acne-prone 

Quantity: 1 fl oz.

2

Editor’s Pick

Nip + Fab Glycolic Scrub Fit

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The next impeccable AHA-BHA exfoliator on our list of recommendations is the Nip + Fab’s Glycolic Scrub Fit. Packed with a punch of chemical exfoliators, it seamlessly sloughs away dead skin cells, refines skin texture, and fights against blackheads and blemishes. 

Additionally, it flushes out congestion and effectively removes dirt, dust, and grime without stripping off the natural moisture of your skin. This scrub plays a vital role in boosting skin’s luminosity. To hold on to its soothing results, seal your skin with the Nip+Fab SPF 30 Moisturiser for added skin replenishment. 

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, glycerin, hydrated silica, salicylic acid, shea butter, and vitamin E

Skin Type: Acne-prone

Quantity: 2.5 fl oz

Quick Tip:

Pour a coin-sized amount on your palm and apply on your face and neck. Gently massage your skin and rinse with lukewarm water.

3

Best for Acne-prone Skin

Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

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This 30 Days Miracle Toner introduced by Some By Mi is one of the best AHA-BHA-PHA products, loaded with Korean skincare secrets. To begin with, it gently buffs away dead skin cells and promotes skin cell turnover to unveil healthy-looking and more youthful skin. 

Secondly, this toner effectively soothes troubled and irritated skin and reduces the prominent appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. What made us gravitate towards this unique skincare product is its pH balance care, which ensures the product doesn’t disrupt your skin’s natural homeostasis. 

Key Ingredients: Tea tree leaf water and niacinamide

Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone skin, combination, sensitive, and dry

Quantity: 5.07 fl oz

4

Best for Deep Skin Rejuvenation

Versed Doctor's Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask

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By incorporating Versed Doctor's Resurfacing Mask into your skincare regime, you can indulge in a spa-like retreat. It flawlessly rejuvenates your skin and aims to enhance the overall texture and radiance of your skin, thanks to its AHA-BHA composition. Adding to that, the infused fruit enzymes and humectants make this product a sheer winner! 

The overall formulation helps in dissolving dead skin cells, fading dark spots, and minimizing the appearance of pores. To sum everything up, this AHA-BHA skin care product leaves no stone unturned in helping you achieve your dream skin.  

Key Ingredients: Papaya and pineapple extracts, glycolic and lactic acids, salicylic acid

Skin Type: Combination

Quantity: 1.7 fl oz.

Quick Tip:

Apply a thin and even layer of the mask to clean and dry skin. Wait for 2 to 3 minutes and rinse with cool water.

5

Best for All Skin Types

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

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Removing dead skin cells and embracing healthy and luminous skin is easier with SkinMedica’s Exfoliating Cleanser. It gently scrubs away dead skin and seamlessly improves the appearance of your skin tone as well as texture. 

With a gentle formula and mild approach, this cleanser not only specializes in exfoliating your skin surface but also aids in reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Undoubtedly, this is the go-to cleanser to attain smooth and supple skin.

Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, malic acid, jojoba oil, and salicylic acid 

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 6 fl oz.

6

Best Anti-aging Formula

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask

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While you sleep, Glow Recipe’s Glow Mask shows off its magic overnight, leaving your skin oh-so-good the next morning! It intensely hydrates your skin, fights against free radical damage, and buffs away dead skin cells revealing smooth, plump, and supple skin. The credit goes to its anti-aging properties that take good care of your skin. 

Drawing from our observations, this sleeping mask is a cult-favorite product that uncovers some serious post-facial results. A happy user shares, “My skin is glowing & hydrated better than anything else I've ever used. The smell is wonderful!” 

Key Ingredients: Watermelon, hyaluronic acid, pumpkin seed extract

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 1 fl oz.

7

Best for an AM/PM Regime

Dr. Dennis Gross AHA/BHA Daily Cleansing Gel

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With Dr. Dennis Gross’s Daily Cleansing Gel, you can bid adieu to dull skin and uneven texture and tone with minimal effort. What we truly appreciate is its ability to remove all traces of dust, dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping away the natural moisture of your skin. 

We also noticed that a couple of skincare enthusiasts and experts have labeled it as the best AHA-BHA cleanser for its remarkable cleansing action and after-effects which result from the rich, cushiony lather that leaves your skin soft, well-balanced, and squeaky clean.

Key Ingredients: Willow bark extract, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, mushroom extract, aloe extract, bisabolol, soy protein, and green tea

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 7.5 fl oz.

8

Best Liquid-gel Formula

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel

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Formulated with the perfect blend of BHA and AHA exfoliants, this rinse-off peel from Paula’s Choice resurfaces the skin to unravel a newer, fresher complexion. It dramatically fights pesky signs of aging, refines rough and bumpy skin texture, and primarily decongests and minimizes the appearance of large pores. 

What we like the most is its liquid-gel formula that makes the application process super-easy and indulgent! All you need to do is apply it once a week and embrace a highly rejuvenated radiant skin just by sitting in the comfort of your own home! 

Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, malic acid, and butterfly pea flower extract 

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 1 oz.

9

Best for Smoothening Rough Skin

Glow Recipe AHA BHA Salicylic Acid Serum

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Here comes yet another AHA-BHA skincare essential from Glow Recipe. It is an indulgent exfoliating serum featuring a rich blend of exfoliants and strawberry extracts. The serum decongests pores, minimizes breakouts, and smoothens rough skin texture. Another standout aspect of this serum is its non-sticky water-gel texture that glides and blends onto your skin effortlessly, lending you a soft-glow finish. 

A satisfied user says, “This serum leaves my skin so soft and smooth. The scent is easy and not overpowering. Secondly, my makeup also sits beautifully and stays all day.”

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, mandelic acid, azelaic acid, strawberry fruit and leaf extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and bisabolol 

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 4.59 fl oz.

10

Best for Daily Use

COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

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COSRX’s Clarifying Treatment Toner gives you a chance to indulge in what the Korean skincare regime feels like. It flawlessly removes dead skin cells and dullness and focuses more on improving your overall skin tone. We also found that a lot of skincare junkies truly adore its unique composition of ingredients that make it the best AHA BHA toner for daily use. 

 

That’s because this toner is crafted from natural ingredients that control sebum production and revive tired skin. For better results and maximum skin protection from UV rays, pair it with the COSRX Daily SPF 50 Vitamin E Sunscreen and you are good to go!

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, apple fruit water, and willow bark water

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 9.47 fl oz

11

Murad Daily Clarifying Peel

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To improve surface cell turnover and attain softer and smoother skin, you need to get hold of Mura’s Daily Clarifying Peel. It minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and decongests clogged gunk, thereby lending you a youthful-looking complexion.

This clarifying peel contains rich humectants, emollients, and amino acids, which replenish your skin after the exfoliative action, thereby preventing dehydration and maintaining its protective barrier. Besides, the product has some amazing acne-fighting properties and antioxidants that fight free radicals and boost overall skin health. 

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, retinoid, and avocado extract

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 3.2 fl oz.

12

Medicube Zero Pore Pads

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For quick and on-the-go skin exfoliation, this pack of Medicube Zero Pore Pads is a reliable choice. These pads are soaked in a good blend of AHAs, BHAs, and botanical extracts that come together for optimal skin clarity. Plus, it flawlessly unclogs and shrinks pores and controls excessive sebum production, making you witness its deep cleansing benefits after consistent usage. Nevertheless, it naturally exfoliates your skin and reduces roughness! 

Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, salicylic acid, citrus oils, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, and other fruit and flower extracts

Skin Type: All

Quantity: 70 pads

13

Acwell pH Balancing Soothing Cleansing Foam

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Lastly, we recommend Acwell’s Soothing Cleansing foam featuring an impressive pH balancing formula. Coming from the shelf of Koeran derma-cosmetic brand, the cleanser soothes damaged, stressed, and sensitive skin effectively. In addition, it calms down acne and blemishes and pulls out impurities for utmost moisture replenishment. 

What’s more? It nourishes the deepest layers of your skin and promotes vitality. Here is what a happy user has to say — “I have bought this product for the second time. I like the way it makes my skin feel and look. Overall very happy with it.”

Key Ingredients: Camphor leaf extracts, lauric acid, and licorice extracts

Skin Type: Sensitive and dry

Quantity: 7.05 fl oz.

That was our comprehensive list of the best AHA and BHA products. Now, let us run you through a detailed buying guide.

Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on the best AHA BHA skincare product.

Skin Type And Skin Concerns: Analyze your skin type and concerns thoroughly before investing in any AHA and BHA serum, cream, cleanser, toner, or moisturizer. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a BHA product may be more beneficial as it can penetrate deeper into the pores. Likewise, if you possess sensitive skin types, then vouch for products that are mild yet effective. Avoid purchasing products that are not meant for your skin type as it may cause adverse effects or hamper the quality of your skin barrier. 

Key Ingredients: Pay heed to the list of ingredients while investing in any of the best AHA and BHA products. Typically, you may come across products that contain AHA ingredients like glycolic acid, citric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and lactic acid, and BHAs like salicylic acid, beta-hydroxybutanoic acid, and trethocanic acid. These ingredients exfoliate dull-looking skin and improve skin texture by sweeping away dead cells. 

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, Currently, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and SA are commonly used ingredients found in skincare and cosmetic products. One of the most cited beneficial effects of HAs is the reported improvement of photoaged skin. 

In addition to AHAs and BHAs, products with niacinamide, papaya, pineapple extracts, apple fruit water, and willow bark water are also found to be beneficial for added skin nourishment. 

Formula: Next, ensure that you go through the formula of the product. It is wise to get your hands on those that are non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, allergy-tested, and dermatologically-tested. For added skin care and protection, you may think of splurging on products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harsh ingredients like parabens, sulfates, alcohol, phthalates, etc. 

Texture: Last but not least, check the texture. It should be light in weight, breathable, easy to spread, and most importantly easy to rinse off. Secondly, it should not clog pores or be sticky, tacky, or greasy.

After taking note of the above-mentioned aspects, understand the difference between AHA and BHA and their benefits.

AHA: As per a research study published by Molecules - MDPI, the simplest representative of AHA is glycolic acid. The category also includes lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid which have been used as superficial peeling agents. To simplify, these acids are found naturally in sugarcane (glycolic acid), sour milk (lactic acid), and fruits (citric acid and malic acid). The studies also state that such a variety of acids helps in stimulating the skin’s cell renewal and has immense potential to improve skin firmness and elasticity.

Benefits: 

• Reduces the appearance of keratoses and acne
• Treats scars, melasma, hyperpigmentation, roughness, age spots, and seborrhea
• Improves the look of wrinkled skin
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Prevents ultraviolet (UV)-induced skin tumor development

BHA: BHAs are effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving overall skin texture, without the occasional irritation associated with the use of AHAs. BHAs comprise beta hydroxybutanoic acid, trethocanic acid, and salicylic acid or related substances like salicylate, sodium salicylate, and willow extract.  Salicylic acid is the most commonly used BHA in cosmetics. Furthermore, this set of exfoliants works to combat oiliness, congested and enlarged pores, and acne, so you may find it as a hero ingredient of many acne-fighting serums and toners available on the market.

Benefits:

• Penetrates deeply into the pores and unclog them
• Decreases sebum production
• Reduces acne inflammation without causing irritation
• Targets concerns of aging and blemish-prone skin