How Often to Exfoliate: AHA & BHA Frequency by Skin Type | Glayvia

How Often to Exfoliate: AHA & BHA Frequency by Skin Type | Glayvia

✨ Introduction: Why Exfoliation Needs a Schedule

Exfoliation is essential for brighter, smoother skin — but too much of a good thing can backfire. Over-exfoliating with AHA or BHA can damage your skin barrier, leading to redness, dryness, and irritation.

The key? Tailor your exfoliation frequency to your skin type, exfoliant strength, and lifestyle.



🧪 What Are AHA and BHA?

  • AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
    Water-soluble acids like glycolic or lactic acid that work on the surface to smooth texture and fade dullness.

  • BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids)
    Oil-soluble exfoliants like salicylic acid that go deeper into pores to treat congestion, acne, and blackheads.



💧 How Often Should You Use AHA?

Skin Type Recommended Frequency
Dry or Sensitive 1x per week (low-strength AHA)
Normal 2x per week
Oily/Acne-Prone 2–3x per week (if skin tolerates it)

Tip: Start slow, especially with glycolic acid or if you're using other actives (like retinoids or vitamin C).



🧼 How Often Should You Use BHA?

 

Skin Type Recommended Frequency
Dry or Sensitive 1–2x per week (gentle formulation)
Normal 2–3x per week
Oily/Acne-Prone Up to 4x per week (build tolerance)

 


Tip: Salicylic acid can be less irritating than AHA for some — but daily use is best left to spot treatments unless dermatologist-recommended.



🚩 Signs You're Over-Exfoliating

  • Burning or stinging sensation

  • Tightness, flaking, or peeling

  • Unusual breakouts

  • Increased redness or sensitivity

When in doubt, scale back — your skin should feel smooth, not stripped.



🛡️ What to Use After Exfoliating

Follow with barrier-supporting ingredients like:

  • Niacinamide (to calm inflammation)

  • Hyaluronic acid (to hydrate)

  • Lightweight moisturisers that lock in hydration without clogging pores



🔬 At Glayvia: Formulating with Skin Barrier in Mind

At Glayvia, we work with Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, and AHA/BHA systems that respect your skin barrier. Every exfoliant we include is balanced with hydrating and calming actives — designed to refine skin, not irritate it.

We believe exfoliation should enhance glow gently and fit seamlessly into your routine — no guesswork, no overdoing it.



💡 Final Thoughts

Your skin’s needs are personal — and so is your exfoliation schedule. Whether you're managing breakouts or looking for that glow, AHA and BHA can work wonders when used with care.

Trust your skin. Start slow. Stay consistent.