Choose the Right Exfoliant for Your Skin Type
Daily exfoliation in Korea is not about overly strong acids but about choosing the right exfoliator for your skin type so you can smooth texture, unclog pores, brighten tone, and keep the barrier healthy.
AHA, PHA, BHA, and LHA all exfoliate but work at different depths. This guide breaks down what they each do, who they suit, and how to use them safely.
FAQ on AHA, BHA, PHA, LHA
Q: How often should I exfoliate with AHA, BHA, PHA, or LHA?
A: Start 1–2 times per week. If skin tolerates well, increase to 2–3 times per week. Stop if skin feels tight, red, or stings.
Q: Do dry or sensitive skin types also need exfoliation?
A: Yes — but gently. Choose PHA or LHA, use low strength, and exfoliate only once weekly. Always moisturize after.
What are AHA, PHA, BHA, and LHA?
Exfoliating acids help remove dead skin cells and improve overall clarity. Each acid has a unique molecule size and strength.
AHA: surface smoothing
PHA: gentle exfoliation for sensitive skin
BHA: pore clearing for oily or acne prone skin
LHA: gentle pore care for sensitive acne prone skin
AHA — The Surface Smoother
AHA exfoliates the top layer of skin to remove dullness and uneven texture.
How AHA Works
AHA dissolves bonds between dead skin cells. Glycolic and lactic acid are the most researched and brighten visibly.
Who AHA Is Best For and How It Feels
• Dry, normal, or combination skin
• Skin that feels rough, dull, or uneven
• Anyone looking for quick radiance
• Mild tingling on application
• Noticeably smoother, glowing skin within days
AHA Picks on Hwahae:
1. COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid
COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid gently exfoliates to loosen whiteheads and smooth rough texture. It helps brighten dull skin while keeping the finish light and non-greasy.
2. PAULA’S CHOICE 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
PAULA’S CHOICE 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant delivers lightweight, leave-on exfoliation for dull, uneven skin. It reveals smoother, more radiant skin without harsh scrubbing.
PHA — Sensitive Skin’s Gentle Exfoliant
PHA has larger molecules, giving it the gentlest exfoliation.
How PHA Works
PHA gently breaks down dead skin cells on the surface while attracting moisture, giving smoother texture with less irritation than AHA.
Who PHA Is Best For and How It Feels
• Sensitive or redness-prone skin
• People who react to AHA or BHA
• Barrier-compromised or dehydrated skin
• Very gentle, hydrating feel
• Minimal to no tingling or irritation
PHA Picks on Hwahae:
1. S.NATURE Aqua Oasis Toner
S.NATURE Aqua Oasis Toner gently smooths and hydrates while delivering mild PHA exfoliation. It helps keep skin clear and refreshed without feeling harsh.
2. Mamonde Flora Glow Rose Liquid Mask
Mamonde Flora Glow Rose Liquid Mask uses PHA to lightly resurface while adding a dewy glow. It helps soften rough patches and brighten skin overnight.
👉 Do you want to find more gentle exfoliators? Click Here!
BHA — The Deep Pore Cleanser
BHA is oil soluble and penetrates inside the pores.
How BHA Works
BHA dissolves excess sebum inside the pores, clearing blackheads, reducing congestion, and helping prevent future breakouts.
Who BHA is Best For and How It Feels
• Oily or acne-prone skin
• Blackheads, clogged pores, or congestion
• Rough, bumpy texture
• Light dryness or purging for some
• Pores feel cleaner and more refined with consistent use
BHA Picks on Hwahae:
1. celimax Ji Woo Gae Cica BHA Acne Foam Cleansing
celimax Ji Woo Gae Cica BHA Acne Foam Cleansing helps cleanse pores, reduce excess oil, and calm breakouts with soothing cica. It leaves skin feeling refreshed without a tight, stripped finish.
2. IsNtree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner
IsNtree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner gently exfoliates inside the pores to improve texture and control congestion. It helps keep skin clearer and smoother with consistent use.
LHA — Gentle Pore Care for Sensitive Acne Prone Skin
LHA is a derivative of salicylic acid with slow, controlled penetration.
How LHA Works
LHA works inside the pores but stays gentle, targeting acne bacteria with less irritation and redness.
Who LHA is Best For and How It Feels
• Sensitive, acne-prone skin
• Skin that reacts to regular salicylic acid
• Redness-prone or easily irritated skin
• Very gentle, slow-penetrating exfoliation
• Soft, non-stinging application with steady improvement
LHA Picks on Hwahae:
1. Abib Green LHA pore pad clear touch
Abib Green LHA Pore Pad Clear Touch gently sweeps away excess oil and buildup while keeping the skin calm and hydrated. It helps refine pores and improve texture with easy daily use.
2. Anua Heartleaf LHA Moisture Peeling Gel
Anua Heartleaf LHA Moisture Peeling Gel provides mild exfoliation while soothing sensitive, easily irritated skin. It helps reveal smoother, softer skin without harsh scrubbing.
How to Use exfoliants effectively
Using exfoliants the right way helps you get visible results while keeping your skin barrier healthy and irritation-free.
Hwahae Tip
• Apply 2 to 3 times per week
• Do not layer with retinoids or strong vitamin C
• Always use sunscreen in the morning
• Increase frequency slowly
• Stop if stinging lasts over 10 seconds
Ingredient Combinations
1. AHA + Niacinamide: calm and brighten
2. PHA + Ceramides: barrier support
3. BHA+ Light Hydration: keeps pores clear without dryness
4. LHA+ Centella: acne soothing
Recommendations for your Skintype
1. Rough or dull skin → AHA
2. Very sensitive skin → PHA
3. Clogged pores or breakouts → BHA
4. Sensitive acne prone → LHA
Editor’s Note
AHA boosts glow, PHA helps sensitive skin, BHA clears pores, and LHA offers gentle acne control. Matching the exfoliant to your skin type is the key to clear and balanced skin.
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