What is BHA and in what forms is it available?
BHA is salicylic acid extracted from aspirin that exfoliates skin. It can be used everyday without making your skin sensitive. BHA dissolves well in oil so it can be absorbed into your skin and help clean out all the dirts and bacteria, as well as reduce comedones and tighten your pores. As BHA is mildly antibacterial, it can help reduce acne.
Who should use it?: Anyone with large pores, acne problems (zits, blackheads, inflamed acne, small pimples), red or dark spots or deep craters caused by acne.
How to use: Apply everyday after cleansing your face and applying toner. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes without removing and follow with a moisturizer to add moisture and reduce the risk of irritation that might occur from using this acne treatment. The treatment can be used everyday both in the morning and in the evening. However, if you are new to this, start by using it in the evening only. If you use it in the morning and it does not feel sticky, apply a sunscreen on top of it.
Can I use AHA or BHA with Vitamin C?
You can use AHA and BHA with Vitamin C. Apply AHA or BHA first and leave it on for about 10 minutes without removing before applying Vitamin C.
Can I use AHA with BHA?
AHA and BHA should be used separately. You could use BHA in the morning (followed by a sunscreen) and AHA in the evening because AHA increases sun sensitivity and may cause your skin to look darker. We recommend using either one in the evening only and switching them up.
How long do I need to leave BHA on before applying a moisturizer?
It is recommended to leave BHA on for 5-10 minutes without removing before applying a serum and a moisturizer. This is to adjust the pH.
Do I need to stop using BHA after having used it for a while?
BHA can be used to exfoliate your skin everyday without making your skin more sensitive because it only removes the dead skin cells. However, you should still wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
What are the differences between AHA and BHA?
AHA and BHA both exfoliate skin but BHA goes deeper into the skin than AHA, and therefore helps remove dirts and bacteria. BHA is more suitable for those with acne problems and large pores, while AHA is more suitable for those with red or dark spots, blemishes, freckles and dull skin.
What is 2% BHA and how important is it?
2% is the highest amount of salicylic that a doctor can prescribe to treat acne. For its new user, it is recommended to use after a moisturizer. If you do not see any changes or your skin is still congested after 3 months of use, try applying it before your moisturizer. Note that it is also important to use a moisturizer that does not cause acne.
Does BHA cause your skin to break out?
It is possible, depending on your skin condition. The way that BHA works is that it causes all the gunk under your skin to come up for some people, while for others, this gunk gets dissolved. If the gunk does not get dissolved, your skin might be inflamed. This is one of the side effects of using acne treatment products, which is why instructions should be followed strictly.
Note that Prof 2% BHA++ Gel contains a substance that reduces skin inflammation and irritation. If you get a breakout after using BHA, do not pick the acne but apply the Clinda M Gel.
It is also recommended you get a medical acne extraction every week. Avoid picking your skin by yourself, as it may cause dark marks and inflammation. After this, continue to use BHA for at least another month. (Apply it in the evening after a moisturizer.) You will find that your skin will improve if you use the product continuously.
**Results will depend on your skin condition.
