A BHA is commonly represented by which acid?

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Multiple Choice

A BHA is commonly represented by which acid?

Beta-hydroxy acids are oil-soluble exfoliants that can penetrate clogged pores, making them especially effective for oily or acne-prone skin. The acid most commonly associated with this category is salicylic acid. Its lipophilic nature allows it to seep into sebum-filled pores and help dissolve the debris that leads to blackheads and inflammation, providing both pore cleansing and anti-inflammatory benefits. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are alpha-hydroxy acids; they are more water-soluble and tend to act more on the skin’s surface, promoting shedding of the outermost layer rather than deep pore exfoliation. Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and isn’t classified as a beta-hydroxy acid.

Beta-hydroxy acids are oil-soluble exfoliants that can penetrate clogged pores, making them especially effective for oily or acne-prone skin. The acid most commonly associated with this category is salicylic acid. Its lipophilic nature allows it to seep into sebum-filled pores and help dissolve the debris that leads to blackheads and inflammation, providing both pore cleansing and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Glycolic acid and lactic acid are alpha-hydroxy acids; they are more water-soluble and tend to act more on the skin’s surface, promoting shedding of the outermost layer rather than deep pore exfoliation. Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and isn’t classified as a beta-hydroxy acid.

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