They’re not interchangeable
AHAs are water-soluble and work primarily on the surface, smoothing texture and improving the look of tone. BHA (salicylic acid) is oil-soluble, which lets it travel into the oil-filled lining of a pore — making it the better tool for congestion, blackheads and breakouts rather than surface texture alone.
Where each one shows up in the range
- Time-Released AHA (2.0%) — Anti Acne Toner Mist: a slow-release delivery that resurfaces skin and adds moisture at the same time, instead of the tight, dry finish older AHA toners are known for.
- Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (2.5%) — Anti Acne Gel: capsule technology holds the BHA back until it’s needed, targeting built-up dead skin without over-drying the surrounding area.
- BHA + AHA + PHA blend — Glowing Pineapple Body Wash: body skin tolerates a broader blend than face skin does, so this one leans on three acids plus upcycled pineapple bromelain in a single rinse-off step.
So which one do you need?
If your main concern is texture or dullness, start with an AHA. If it’s congestion, blackheads or recurring breakouts, BHA is the better-matched tool. If you think you need both, alternate them on different nights rather than layering them into the same step — see our skin cycling guide for a rotation that does exactly that.
Neither acid works in three days. Give a new exfoliating step two to four weeks before deciding whether it’s working.
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