AHA, PHA, BHA, LHA:
Choosing the Right Exfoliant for Your Skin Type
Daily exfoliation in Korea is not about overly strong acids but about choosing the right exfoliant 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.
What AHA, PHA, BHA, and LHA Actually Are
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.
• Skin that feels rough, dull, or uneven
• Anyone looking for quick radiance
• Mild tingling on application
• Noticeably smoother, glowing skin within days
AHA Picks:
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.
• People who react to AHA or BHA
• Barrier-compromised or dehydrated skin
• Very gentle, hydrating feel
• Minimal to no tingling or irritation
PHA Picks:
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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.
• 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:
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.
• 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:
How to Use exfoliants effectively
Using exfoliants the right way helps you get visible results while keeping your skin barrier healthy and irritation-free.
• 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
AHA + Niacinamide: calm and brighten
PHA + Ceramides: barrier support
BHA + Light Hydration: keeps pores clear without dryness
LHA + Centella: acne soothing
Recommendations for your Skintype
Rough or dull skin → AHA
Very sensitive skin → PHA
Clogged pores or breakouts → BHA
Sensitive acne prone → LHA
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Posted on Dec 15, 2025 (UTC+0)
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