Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
Beta hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid, can be helpful for melasma and decreasing surface oils. This makes BHAs great for acne-prone skin. But, do not get greedy with them. Don't use BHAs more than a few times per week, according to Kritzer. And steer clear of using multiple skin care products that contain acids. "Overuse will strip your skin causing the sebaceous glands to overproduce oil and you are back to square one, except now your skin's barrier is weakened," says Kritzer. "Being chill and not reactive to breakouts and rashes is very important!" She continues that leaving skin alone for a few days will usually result in it repairing itself. If not, then it's time to call an expert.
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Charcoal
We've all heard about the purifying benefits of activated charcoal. They ring true, but just like clay, charcoal treatments are best kept to a minimum lest we want skin to start drying out. Scan packages for usage instructions and adhere to them. For example, it's typically recommended to start off using a charcoal mask once, maybe twice, a week. Leaving them on for longer isn't better. If it says 10 minutes, set a timer.
Make sure to follow a charcoal treatment with a nourishing moisturizer to keep skin balanced.
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Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an AHA and it's the one Board Certified Dermatologist Rose Ingleton, MD has singled out, specifically exfoliants with glycolic acid. "Exfoliants with glycolic acid and gritty particles can cause irritation and micro-abrasions on the skin if used too frequently," says Ingleton. "[They] should be used no more than one to two times per week." In general, it's a good tip to keep exfoliating sessions to a few times a week.
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