BHA is not a new fast-food chain serving up buckets of greasy poultry from Kentucky (we see you, KFC fans). Nor is it the latest text abbreviation your teenager is using that you’re too afraid to ask about. And, in the skin care space, it doesn’t need to be another mysterious beauty acronym designed to make your routine sound like a chemistry exam, either…
What is BHA, anyway?
In the beauty world, BHA stands for beta hydroxy acid – and it’s one of the hardest-working ingredients to earn a spot on your bathroom shelf.
As a type of chemical exfoliant BHA helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin while also working within pores. Unlike physical scrubs that manually buff away buildup, BHA uses active ingredients to gently exfoliate, helping improve the appearance of uneven texture, congestion and enlarged pores.
Salicylic acid is the star ingredient behind BHA – a skin care powerhouse that helps target the look of blocked pores and excess oil, making it a favourite for anyone chasing a smoother, more balanced complexion.
But while BHA has long been a skin care staple, the latest evolution of the ingredient is all about personalisation. Because when it comes to exfoliation, stronger doesn’t always mean better – the right formula depends on your skin’s individual needs.
So, who should use BHA?
The beauty of BHA is its versatility. Whether you’re dealing with skin that looks dull, texture that feels uneven or pores that appear more noticeable, BHA can be a helpful addition to a well-rounded skin care routine.
The trick is introducing it slowly and choosing a formula that matches your skin. A lower strength may be ideal for those just starting out, while a stronger option may suit those who already know their skin tolerates exfoliating ingredients well.
Finding the right BHA strength for your skin
For skin care beginners, sensitive skin types or those wanting a gentler approach, a lower concentration of BHA can be a great place to start. These formulas offer the benefits of exfoliation while being designed to support a more comfortable skin care experience.
For those wanting a more intensive treatment, higher-strength BHA formulas can help target concerns like visible congestion, uneven texture and signs of ageing.
This shift towards customised skin care is exactly why Paula’s Choice has just expanded its iconic BHA collection, introducing two new formulas alongside its bestselling 2% BHA Exfoliant.
The new 1% BHA Gentle Exfoliating Gel Toner offers a milder exfoliation option, combining 1% salicylic acid with soothing ingredients including allantoin, mushroom extract and natural prebiotics. Its lightweight gel formula gently exfoliates while helping smooth texture, unclog pores and visibly reduce redness.
At the other end of the spectrum, the new 4% BHA Advanced Exfoliating Serum Toner delivers a more intensive exfoliating experience. Featuring 4% salicylic acid alongside hydrating glycerin and smoothing adenosine, the formula helps improve the appearance of uneven texture, congested pores and visible signs of ageing.
With the expansion of the Paula’s Choice BHA range, skin care lovers now have more options than ever to find a formula that fits their routine – proving that the future of exfoliation isn’t just about powerful ingredients, but finding the right balance for your skin.
