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chemical exfoliant

The differences between AHA and BHA.

It is no secret that using products that exfoliate your skin leaving you with a smooth and glowing complexion. This is why so many people do it. However, a lot of people are unaware of the benefits of doing a chemical exfoliation over the more commonly known physical exfoliation. 

A chemical exfoliant uses different types of acids to dissolve the dead skin cells that build up on our skin. This build up is what prevents our skin from looking smooth, healthy and radiant. The two most commonly used chemical exfoliants are Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Alpha Hydroxy Acid is a term that is used for a group of acids that are derived from different sources, including plants and animals. AHAs are water loving acids and their main job is to promote cell turnover in your skin. Their ability to dissolve and exfoliate surface dead skin cells is what helps reduce fine lines, pigmentation and improve the overall complexion of your skin. 

Types of AHAs

  • Glycolic – derived from sugar cane
  • Lactic – derived from milk
  • Tartaric – from grape wine
  • Malic Acid – derived from apples
  • Mandelic – derived from bitter almonds

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs or Salicylic Acid)

Beta Hydroxy Acid is another type of chemical exfoliant. Unlike it’s water loving counterpart, BHAs are oil soluble. This is why BHAs are able to exfoliate the skin at a deeper level than AHAs. BHAs are an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial acid which makes them extremely effective in the treatment of acne-prone skin. Like most skin-care products, the job of BHAs surrounds clearing acne, preventing oily skin and creating a smooth and glowing complexion.

AHAs vs BHAs

Although both AHAs and BHAs are chemical exfoliants, they both work better on different skin types. Given the fact that AHAs are water soluble, they work best for people that have dryer skin. This is because they remove the dead skin cells that contribute to dry skin. Using AHAs allows moisturizer to absorb deeper into the skin. Since BHAs are oil soluble, they are most ideal for people who suffer from oily or acne-prone skin. This is because BHAs are able to travel deeper into the skin. Thanks to the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial factors, people with acne-prone skin have been able to see a drastic difference.

Product Recommendations

While there are multiple different brands and products involving chemical exfoliants, there are definitely a few holy grail items that you may want to invest in.

Exfoliating your skin, using either chemical or physical exfoliants, is an amazing step to add to your weekly skin-care routine. Chemical exfoliants have been proven to fight acne and hyperpigmentation which ultimately leave you with the skin that you have been yearning for. Once you are able to notice that smooth, glowing complexion, all the products in your bathroom will definitely maintain the title of being your best friend.

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Alex grew up in Wisconsin and moved to Florida in 2016 to attend Florida Gulf Coast University. After graduating in 2020, she attended the University of Miami and received her Masters in Skin Biology. Alex has the long term goal of becoming a PA.

Kassidy has just recently moved to Naples from Tuscaloosa Alabama. She vacationed here with here family for many years before deciding to move. We are delighted to have her here! Kassidy has her Cosmetology license and has worked in Aesthetics previously. Kassidy loves all things skin care and treatments. When she has time off she loves cooking and coffee but mostly family time with her husband Ryan and their adorable son Lucas!

Sharon is originally from the Boston area and has lived in Southwest Florida for over 20 years. Sharon came to us with 20 plus years of management and customer service experience. After staying at home to raise her twins for seven years she was excited to get back to work joining D-Lux Medspa in 2017. when she’s not working she enjoys cooking, gardening and has a passion for all things organization! Sharon and her husband Wayde also enjoy fishing trips, going diving with there children Carly and Chase or just going for a walk with their dog Ginger.

Felicia (Luminella) LE-MA/ is originally from Detroit Michigan (she is a Spartans fan!) now living in the Naples area for 13 years now.  Most of you already know Felicia as she has been part of our family since 2018. She has been Dana’s MA (Medical Assistant) during this time. Now she has added a Licensed Esthetician and Licensed Electrolysis technician (hair removal) to her credentials. Outside of D-Lux, she enjoys spending time with her husband and her dog, Duke.

Felicia is now available for laser hair removal.

Nichole moved to SouthWest Florida 10 years ago after residing in Albuquerque New Mexico for most of her life. She met Dana not long after her arrival and they have been fast friends ever since. With a background in sales and graphic design Nichole brings her passion for delivering impeccable customer/patient service to her role at Dlux Medspa. When she’s not at the office she enjoys cooking (ask her about her old food blog!), being “artsy” and helping curate the Dlux Instagram accounts. She tries to avoid exercise at any cost, but somehow manages to get a work out in every once in a while, even if it is against her will.