AHA vs. BHA vs. PHA: A Simple K-Beauty Exfoliation Guide

Exfoliation gets confusing because three different acid families are often sold as if you need all of them. You usually do not.

AHA: Surface-Focused Smoothing

AHAs are commonly used to improve the feel and look of rough surface texture. They can be useful for dull-looking or flaky skin, but stronger or frequent use may irritate sensitive skin.

BHA: A Popular Choice for Oily, Clogged-Looking Areas

Salicylic acid is the best-known BHA in skincare. It is commonly used in routines focused on excess oil and clogged-looking pores.

PHA: Often Positioned as a Gentler Option

PHAs are generally used for surface exfoliation with a milder-feeling profile in many formulas, though sensitive skin can still react.

How to Choose

Pick the problem you actually want to address, start with one exfoliating product and follow its directions. Do not layer acid toner, peeling serum and exfoliating pads just because each uses a different acronym.

Signs You Are Doing Too Much

Persistent stinging, unusual tightness, visible irritation and products that suddenly burn are reasons to scale back.

Exfoliation should make a routine simpler, not become the routine.