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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between AHA and Retinol?

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AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and retinol are both popular skincare ingredients, but they have different functions and work in different ways. Here are the main differences between AHA and retinol:

  • Function: Retinol helps with cell turnover while AHAs act as exfoliators. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that increases cell turnover and stimulates collagen production, which can reduce wrinkles, refine pores, and even out skin tone. AHAs, on the other hand, are topical acids that dissolve and remove the top dull layer of dead skin to reveal new, glowing, healthy skin.
  • Exfoliation vs. Cell Turnover: AHAs are exfoliators, actively removing the top dead layer of skin. Retinol, on the other hand, works by increasing cell turnover, which relates to a skin cell's life or maturation journey from birth to death.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Retinol has antioxidant properties, while AHAs do not.
  • Skin Concerns: AHAs can target skin discoloration more directly and help clear plugs within the pores. Retinol has a more significant influence on collagen production and can improve acne conditions.
  • Skincare Routine: It is recommended to use AHAs and retinol at different times of the day to ensure maximum benefits and minimize irritation. Retinol should be used at night, as it can break down in light and make your skin more prone to sunburn. In the morning, you can use AHAs to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells.
  • Sensitivity: Some people may find AHAs irritating and drying, while retinol may be more beneficial for their skin. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be advised to use hydroxy acids over retinol.

Incorporating both AHAs and retinol into your skincare routine can provide a more comprehensive approach to addressing various skin concerns. However, it is essential to use them at the right times and in the right order to minimize irritation and achieve the best results.

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  • What is the Difference Between AHA and Retinol?
  • Comparative Table: AHA vs Retinol

    • Comparative Table: AHA vs Retinol

    AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and retinol are both popular skincare ingredients with different functions and benefits. Here is a table outlining the differences between AHA and retinol:

    Property AHA Retinol
    Function Exfoliates the skin, removing the top dull layer of dead skin to reveal new, glowing, healthy skin Helps with cell turnover, minimizing fine lines, reducing the appearance of pores, and improving skin texture
    Form Water-soluble acids, derived naturally from sugar cane or other plants, or synthetically A form of vitamin A
    Examples Glycolic and lactic acids Retinol, retinal, retinoic acid, retinyl palmitate, tretinoin, adapalene, and more
    Skincare Products Found in cleansers, toners, moisturizers, scrubs, peels, and masks Usually an active ingredient in creams or serums
    Application Can be used in the morning, followed by sunscreen Should be used at night, as it can break down in light and make the skin more prone to sunburn
    Concentration Typically sold to consumers with an AHA concentration of 10% or less. Professional cosmetologists can have concentrations between 20 and 30%, and for doctors' use, it can be 50 to 70% Over-the-counter options range from retinaldehyde (RAL), retinol esters, and retinol to prescription medications like tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, and trifarotene

    Both AHA and retinol can be beneficial for your skin when used correctly and as part of a healthy skincare routine.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.