The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid and 1% Hyaluronic Acid to Fight Blackheads and Breakouts 30ml IF015KE

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Glycolic acid is probably the most common [AHA],” he says. “It’s often used in dermatologists’ offices for professional chemical peels, but it’s also found in a variety of over-the-counter serums and skin-care products. [Glycolic acid] can be a little bit more irritating than, say, lactic acid. So if someone has oily or acne-prone skin, I steer them towards glycolic acid. If they have more sensitive skin, I’d refer them more towards a lactic acid-containing product.” Can you overdo it on AHAs? Should anyone avoid AHAs? Liquid exfoliants aka lotion exfoliants go above and beyond what a physical exfoliant can offer your skin. Before incorporating both exfoliants into your skin care routine, experiment on your skin by using the newest product as a spot treatment. Apply sunscreen with SPF 50 or more prior to sun exposure and reapply as needed throughout the day. CAN I LAYER BHA SERUM WITH OTHER INGREDIENTS? We do not recommend layering BHA products with exfoliating acids (Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Apple Cider Vinegar or Mandelic Acid), BHAs (C-50 Blemish Treatment), PHA Toner, Vitamin C and Retinols as this may lead to irritation. We suggest using these on alternative evenings and ensuring you start of slowly to ensure you don't sensitise the skin. What products should I not layer together? >

Certain combinations of ingredients can also complicate or irritate the skin condition you’re looking to treat. When buying an exfoliating BHA product, avoid: Psst – get your beautiful bum on my free 7-days Get Great Skin Started e-lesson course to find out which skincare actives are the absolute best for your unique skin type and skin concerns – join for free here . Both derms we spoke to recommend using your AHA products at night after cleansing so they have optimal time to work their magic. In the morning it’s extra important to wear sunscreen (SPF 30 to SPF 50), as products with AHAs make you more prone to sun damage. When doing your serum shopping, you might want to look for one that’s formulated with calming, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane or antioxidants like vitamin C. If you currently use retinol, Dr. Kim suggests not using both retinol and AHAs on the same day, as that can create skin irritation and discomfort. In contrast, BHA does not cause an increase in the skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation. It is recommended that BHA exfoliants be formulated in a way to avoid skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun, or to provide directions for proper sun protection in the event skin sensitivity to photodamage is increased.Since they’re so lightweight, serums can be layered. Some serums, such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, pair together nicely. If you want to layer your face serums, make sure the ingredients are compatible and wait about one minute between each skin care product. Inflammation or injury to the skin can cause PIH. It may also present as a side effect of certain skin care products and cosmetic treatments.

OTC BHA exfoliants are sold in concentrations ranging from 0.05–5%, although most OTC products are available in concentrations of 2% or lower. Stronger concentrations are available by prescription. Likewise, chemical peels, which offer stronger exfoliation, typically use SA in concentrations between 20–30%.Formulated with 4% [AHA + BHA + Niacinamide], our serum visibly reduces blemishes, improves the appearance of residual marks, and helps to resurfaces skin for smoother and more even-looking skin. When adding new products to your skincare routine, we always recommend patch testing. Learn more here.