AHA / BHA / PHA

What is AHA / BHA / PHA?

Exfoliating acids: water-soluble alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic; oil-soluble salicylic acid (BHA) for pores; and larger, gentler polyhydroxy acids. Concentration and finished-product pH are regulated in most markets, and salicylic acid in particular faces EU restrictions and specific warning-label requirements.

At a glance

Category

Ingredients

Also known as

AHA·BHA·PHA

Korean term

AHA·BHA·PHA

Last reviewed

July 23, 2026

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