The Basics On Beta Hydroxy Acid
What is Beta Hydroxy Acid?
Type of exfoliating acid that is oil-binding, meaning they penetrate more deeply to exfoliate inside pores and target excess oil and blemishes.
What are other names for Beta Hydroxy Acid?
BETA HYDROXY ACIDS
What is Beta Hydroxy Acid used for?
In chemical terms, Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are carboxylic acids having one hydroxyl group attached to the β-position of the carboxyl group1. Salicylic acid is often cited as the best-known example of a BHA but chemically speaking this is not strictly correct1. More recently, beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), or a combination of AHAs and BHAs, have appeared as ingredients in these skin care products. While both AHAs and BHAs act as exfoliants, it has been claimed that BHAs are effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving overall skin texture, without the occasional irritation associated with the use of AHAs2.BHA ingredients may be listed as – salicylic acid (or related substances, such as salicylate, sodium salicylate, and willow extract)* beta-hydroxybutanoic acid tropic acid trethocanic acid Currently, the BHA most commonly used in cosmetics is salicylic acid. On rare occasions, citric acid is also cited as a BHA in cosmetic formulations. More commonly, citric acid is referred to as an AHA1.
How Beta Hydroxy Acid is classified
Skin-Soothing, Antioxidants, Exfoliant
Recommendations for using Beta Hydroxy Acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Limited data suggests no known risk
Beta Hydroxy Acid During Pregnancy
What we know about using Beta Hydroxy Acid while pregnant or breastfeeding
Limited information available.
N/A
General safety info about Beta Hydroxy Acid from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Products where you might find Beta Hydroxy Acid
Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, Wander Beauty Fast Lane Instant Facial; The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) Blemish + Blackhead Serum, Caudalie Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Pore Minimizing Toner, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing Gel, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Intense Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Face, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing Gel Mini
List of References
General sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/
1. Kornhauser A, Coelho S, Hearing V. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2010;3:135-142. [PubMed] 2. US F. Beta Hydroxy Acids. US Food & Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productsingredients/ingredients/ucm107943.htm. Published November 15, 2017. Accessed August 2018. Beta_hydroxy_acid (Wikipedia) Not to be confused with Butylated hydroxyanisole. 3-Hydroxypropionic acid, a simple beta hydroxy acid A beta hydroxy acid or Œ≤-hydroxy acid (BHA) is an organic compound that contains a carboxylic acid functional group and hydroxy functional group separated by two carbon atoms. They are closely related to alpha hydroxy acids, in which the two functional groups are separated by one carbon atom. In cosmetics, the term beta hydroxy acid refers specifically to salicylic acid, which is used in some “anti-aging” creams and acne treatments. It is used to combat inflammation. Upon dehydration, beta-hydroxy acids yield an alpha-beta unsaturated acid.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
