Key Takeaways:
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AHAs resurface texture and wrinkles, BHAs clear pores, and PHAs offer gentle exfoliation that dissolves dead skin on the surface. There's no single "best" acid, just the right one for your skin type and concern.
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Smaller molecules like glycolic acid penetrate deeper for faster results, while larger molecules like lactic, mandelic acid, and PHAs like gluconolactone absorb more slowly, making them the better fit for sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.
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Advanced at-home peel pads deliver a higher acid concentration than a daily cleanser or lotion, making them the perfect exfoliating solution to amplify visible results once or twice a week.
AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs are all chemical exfoliants, and they work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells to improve texture, clarity, and tone. AHAs are water-soluble and work at the skin's surface. BHAs are oil-soluble and penetrate inside pores. PHAs offer a gentler option for sensitive skin. The right choice for you depends on your skin type and primary concern.
AHAs: Glycolic Acid for Surface Exfoliation and Skin Renewal
AHAs, or alpha hydroxy acids, are water-soluble, which means they exfoliate at the surface, loosening the bonds between dead skin cells to reveal fresher skin beneath. Glycolic acid is the most studied AHA, and it has been shown to improve the appearance of texture, fine lines, and uneven skin tone through accelerated cell turnover.
Molecular size matters here, too. A smaller molecule like glycolic acid means deeper penetration and faster results, while larger-molecule AHAs like lactic acid and mandelic acid offer a gentler profile for sensitive skin. We generally recommend AHAs for normal, dry, and combination skin, as well as for post-acne discoloration and dull or uneven texture.
Bioglycolic® Face Cleanser and Oily Skin Cleansing Gel
Our Bioglycolic Face Cleanser was named NewBeauty Readers’ Choice 2026 Favorite Exfoliating Cleanser. This soap-free, creamy glycolic acid cleanser gently resurfaces, clears pores, and prepares skin for the products that follow. Sorbitol, a naturally derived humectant, balances and nourishes so skin never feels stripped, and it can improve the appearance of skin texture and pore clarity.
For oily or acne-prone skin, our Bioglycolic Oily Skin Cleansing Gel delivers the same benefits of glycolic acid in a gel format built for oily skin types.
BodyTX AHA Body Lotion
BodyTX AHA Body Lotion combines a balanced blend of AHA and PHA acids with an advanced hydration complex to exfoliate and rejuvenate skin's surface while delivering immediate and long-term moisture, supporting skin's renewal process from the very first application.
BHAs (and PHAs): Salicylic and Azelaic Acid for Pores and Blemish-Prone Skin
BHAs, or beta hydroxy acids, are oil-soluble, which allows them to penetrate inside the pore and dissolve the oil, dead cells, and debris that cause congestion and breakouts. Salicylic acid is a BHA shown to clear pores, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits for acne-prone skin.
PHAs, or polyhydroxy acids, are the gentlest exfoliants due to their large molecular size. That means slower absorption and less irritation, making them ideal for sensitive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin. Gluconolactone is the most common example. We recommend BHAs and PHAs for oily, acne-prone, blemish-prone, or congested skin, as well as post-acne redness and enlarged pores.
Bioclear® Face Lotion and Face Cream
Our Bioclear Face Lotion is a triple-acid formula combining glycolic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), and azelaic acid to reduce the appearance of fine lines, clear pores, decrease blemishes and redness, and brighten skin. It's a lightweight lotion built for oily and normal to combination skin; shake well before use.
For those who prefer a richer cream formula for dry or very dry skin, our Bioclear Face Cream delivers the same triple-acid benefit in a cream formulation.
Amplify Your Results: At-Home Peel Pads
Marini SkinSolutions ® offers multiple advanced at-home facial peels that include a specific combination of highly concentrated acids and antioxidants to resurface skin for a polished look while simultaneously soothing and protecting it. These peel pads are designed to be used 1-2 days a week for stronger, faster results paired with your daily skin care routine.
Marini ResurFace Peel Pads: For General Resurfacing
Our Marini ResurFace Peel Pads are a four-acid formula, combining glycolic (AHA), salicylic (BHA), mandelic (AHA), and lactic (AHA) acids for broad-spectrum resurfacing. They're designed to deliver instantly smoother, more luminous-looking skin, refined texture, and a reduced appearance of pore size, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Marini Clear Corrective Pads: For Blemish-Prone Skin
For blemish-prone skin, we formulated Marini Clear Corrective Pads with a triple-acid formula (glycolic (AHA), salicylic (BHA), and azelaic acid) alongside niacinamide to soothe and reduce the appearance of redness and post-acne discoloration. This at-home peel pad is built to clear pores, reduce the appearance of redness and discoloration caused by acne, and help visibly clear your complexion.
Exfoliate Safely and Effectively
AHAs resurface texture and wrinkles, BHAs clear pores, and PHAs offer the gentlest exfoliation that dissolves dead skin on the surface. Each plays a distinct role in a well-rounded routine. Marini SkinSolutions ® offers multiple AHA, BHA, and PHA exfoliating solutions to address your specific skin concerns from acne, wrinkles and fine lines, skin texture and pores, to hyperpigmentation and discoloration.
If you're ready to build an exfoliation routine suited to your skin, explore the rest of our formulas or use our AI Skin Analysis tool for personalized recommendations.
FAQs
What is the difference between AHA and BHA?
AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) are water-soluble and work primarily on the skin's surface, making them well-suited for texture, tone, and dry skin concerns. BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) are oil-soluble, allowing them to penetrate inside pores. This makes salicylic acid the go-to for blemish-prone and oily skin. Many formulas combine both for broader benefits.
How often should beginners use a chemical exfoliant?
Starting once or twice a week allows skin to acclimate before increasing frequency. Consistent, gradual use is how measurable results develop. Daily exfoliating cleansers are generally lower-concentration and designed for everyday use; leave-on acids and peel pads are more intensive and used less frequently.
Can I use a chemical exfoliant if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, but format and acid type matter. PHAs like gluconolactone are the most tolerable option, followed by larger-molecule AHAs like lactic and mandelic acid. Starting with an exfoliating cleanser (rather than a leave-on product) and using it less frequently reduces the adjustment period. Always follow with SPF during the day when using any exfoliant.
Sources:
Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin | PMC
Effects of Topical Mandelic Acid Treatment on Facial Skin Viscoelasticity | PubMed