The best AHA + BHA acids - TOP 5 in 2025
AHA and BHA acids are essential ingredients in modern exfoliating cosmetics for effective skin care in the comfort of your own home. Among the many options available, serums with AHA and BHA acids are particularly appreciated, offering intensive but safe exfoliation, delivering results comparable to professional cosmetic treatments. Our ranking takes into account products that effectively combine both types of acids, delivering deep cleansing and renewal to the complexion. AHA acids are ideal for dry and combination skin, acting as a powerful moisturiser and renewer, while BHA acids are perfect for skin problems such as acne, excessive sebum production and inflammation. Discover our list of the best serums with AHA and BHA acids that effectively transform the complexion, restoring a healthy and youthful appearance.
The ranking factors we took into account are:
- Effectiveness
- Skin care
- Composition
- Consistency
- Application
- Price
- Undesired effects
What to look out for when choosing a serum rich in AHA and BHA acids?
Acid concentration: Check the concentration of AHA and BHA acids in the serum to make sure it is suitable for your skin type and exfoliation intensity needs.
Skin type: When choosing a serum, pay attention to the recommendations for your skin type - AHA acids are usually better for dry and ageing skin, while BHA for oily and acne-prone skin.
Additional ingredients: Look for a serum that contains soothing and moisturising ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerine or ceramides to help minimise potential irritation after acids.
Product pH: The ideal pH for the effectiveness of AHA and BHA acids is between 3 and 4; this value ensures that the acids are suitably effective but not too aggressive for the skin.
Packaging: Prefer products in light and air-protective packaging, such as dark glass or frosted bottles, which prevent the acids from degrading.
Certifications and reviews: Look for products that are well-reviewed by other users and have dermatological certifications, which can be an indicator of their safety and effectiveness.
Take a look at our ranking of the best AHA and BHA acids:
The Nutridome serum with AHA and BHA acids is excellent at regenerating the skin, unifying skin tone, reducing sebum and making the skin smoother. The testers were surprised by the quick effectiveness and simplicity in the use of this product. The results they achieved with the serum, such as a hydrated, refreshed and radiant complexion, exceeded their expectations. With a balanced formula containing aloe vera juice to soothe inflammation, moisturising glycerin and soothing panthenol, the serum effectively exfoliates the epidermis, reduces wrinkles and deeply cleanses pores through the action of AHA and BHA acid. The skin looks healthy, smooth and radiant, as if after a professional beauty treatment. Testers with problematic skin also reported a reduction in hyperpigmentation and acne scarring, adding to their satisfaction. Despite the product's limited availability, its effects quickly convinced the testers of its benefits.
The Blood Scrub by The Ordinary is a unique product known for its unique colour. It combines AHA and BHA acid in its formulation, making it effective in dealing with excessive sebum and reducing skin imperfections. The formula also contains moisturising hyaluronic acid, regenerating vitamin B5 and antioxidant carrot extract, which further enhances its skincare properties. Our testers appreciated its high effectiveness, although they pointed out that the soothing ingredients do not prevent irritation fully. It is important to rinse the product off thoroughly to avoid irritation in delicate areas such as around the eyes or on the wings of the nose.
Bandi, Medical Expert Anti Acne, an AHA and BHA acid peel, is ideal for those new to the world of acids, thanks to its low concentration of 10%. This acid peel effectively prevents acne, pimples and blackheads. Additionally, thanks to its AHA and BHA acids, it helps control sebum production and reduces visible post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The product is vegan and dermatologically certified, which provides an extra sense of safety. Its main drawbacks are its high price and rather thick consistency, which may bother some users.
Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum is recommended for those struggling with skin problems such as enlarged pores, oily skin or eczema. The product combines the action of three types of acids: AHA, BHA and PHA, which cleanse, nourish and revitalise the skin, preparing it for further skincare. AHA and BHA acid help reduce imperfections, reduce pore size and eliminate blackheads, while PHA provides additional hydration. Centella Asiatica extract and tea tree leaf water further soothe irritation and regulate sebum production. Problems signalled by test participants were a texture that was too watery, making application difficult, and an intense fragrance. The price is one of the high ones, which is why the product ranks just behind the podium today.
Garnier Pure Active Serum is a black acid peel that effectively fights skin imperfections thanks to its AHA and BHA acids, niacinamide and carbon. Niacinamide soothes irritation and has an anti-inflammatory effect, while carbon has a purifying and mattifying effect. Despite its effectiveness in reducing excessive sebum secretion and exfoliating the skin, the product also contains artificial colourings and denatured alcohol, which can lead to dry skin. The serum is best used at night due to the black colour that may remain on the face. The product is Cruelty Free certified, confirming no animal testing, which is an added bonus for Garnier cosmetics. In terms of acid concentration, this is the weakest product in the range, so for some, its action may not be enough.
