AHA BHA Serum for Acne Scars: Does It Actually Work?

đŠ Still Dealing with Acne Scars Long After the Breakouts Are Gone?
Youâve cleared the breakoutsâbut the stubborn marks they left behind? Not so easy. Acne scars can make your skin look uneven, dull, and texturedâeven if youâre breakout-free.
Enter the buzzword skincare solution youâve probably seen everywhere:
AHA BHA serums.
But hereâs the question:
Can a few drops of an exfoliating serum really fade acne scars? Or is it just another skincare hype?
Letâs decode how AHA BHA works, whether it can truly help Indian skin, and why this might be the gentle yet effective solution your post-acne skin needs.
Â
đ§Ź First, What Are AHA & BHA?
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
-Water-soluble exfoliants that work on the skinâs surface
-Help with pigmentation, dullness, and mild scarring
-Common types: Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid
Â
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids)
-Oil-soluble, so they go deeper into pores
-Target clogged pores, blackheads, active acne, and deeper pigmentation
-Most common type: Salicylic Acid
-Together, they form a power duo:
AHAs resurface and brighten
BHAs unclog and clear
This means AHA BHA serums are not just about preventing acneâtheyâre great at repairing the aftermath too.
Â
đĄ How AHA BHA Serums Help with Acne Scars
Hereâs what happens when you use a good AHA BHA serum consistently:
Benefit | Why It Helps Acne Scars |
---|
Exfoliates dead skin | Reveals newer, smoother layers |
Fades pigmentation | AHAs reduce melanin clustering |
Clears clogged pores | Prevents new breakouts that worsen scarring |
Boosts cell turnover | Encourages fresh skin regeneration |
Improves texture | Helps with mild pitting or uneven skin |
Â
đ§´ What to Look for in an AHA BHA Serum (Especially in India)
Indian skin is melanin-rich and often more sensitive to actives. Look for:
â Low to moderate concentrations (5â10% AHA, 1â2% BHA)
â Hydrating base (e.g., aloe, hyaluronic acid)
â No fragrance or alcohol
â pH-balanced formula
â Suitable for humid climates
Avoid overly strong exfoliants that cause redness, peeling, or make pigmentation worse.
Â
â How to Use AHA BHA Serum for Best Results
1. Start Slowly
Use 2â3 times a week at night. Not daily in the beginning.
2. Cleanse First
Apply to clean, dry skinâdonât layer over other actives immediately.
3. Follow with Moisturizer
Always follow with a calming, non-comedogenic moisturizer (WildOakâs Skin Superfood Gel is ideal here).
4. Use Sunscreen Religiously
Exfoliated skin is sun-sensitive. SPF 30+ is a must.
5. Consistency Over Intensity
Results build up over 4â8 weeks, not overnight.
Â
đ How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Timeframe | Visible Change |
---|---|
Week 1â2 | Smoother texture, minor glow improvement |
Week 3â4 | Fading of post-acne dark marks |
Week 5â6 | Clearer tone, improved overall skin tone |
Week 8+ | Reduction in shallow scars, more even skin surface |
Â
â ď¸ What AHA BHA Serums Canât Do
â Remove deep pitted scars (like icepick scars)
â Work instantly
â Replace sunscreen, hydration, or sleep
â Suit everyoneâif youâre pregnant or very sensitive, consult a dermatologist
đ Are There Side Effects?
Mild tingling, dryness, or purging in the first 1â2 weeks is normal. If irritation or redness lasts longer, reduce usage or switch to a milder formula.
Â
đď¸ Try WildOakâs 7% AHA + BHA Exfoliating Serum
If youâre looking for an exfoliating serum thatâs gentle, effective, and made for Indian skin, WildOakâs 7% AHA + BHA Exfoliating Serum is exactly that.
đż What Makes It Special:

7% AHA BHA Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Peeling Face Serum - Great for Beginners
-5% Glycolic Acid + 1% Lactic Acid: Smooths texture & brightens dull skin
-1% Salicylic Acid: Unclogs pores and reduces blackheads
-Hyaluronic Acid + Panthenol: Prevents dryness & soothes sensitive skin
-Fragrance-free, non-sticky, barrier-safe formula
-Suitable for acne marks, rough patches, and keratosis pilaris (KP)
âThis is one of the few exfoliating serums in India thatâs truly barrier-friendlyâmaking it perfect for beginners or anyone struggling with post-acne pigmentation.â
â WildOak Formulation Team
Â
đ§ FAQs
Q: Is AHA BHA Serum safe for teens or people in their early 20s?
Yesâbut start with once-a-week usage and patch test first.
Q: Can I use AHA BHA Serum with retinol or vitamin C?
Not at the same time. Alternate days or morning/evening routines.
Q: What skin types can use AHA BHA Serum?
Oily, acne-prone, and combination skin benefit the most. Dry or sensitive types should pair with a strong moisturizer.
Â
â
Final Word: Yes, It WorksâIf You Use It Right
AHA BHA serums are not magic potionsâbut they are one of the most scientifically backed tools for reducing acne scars and improving overall skin texture.
With the right formula, technique, and patience, youâll notice:
â Fewer dark marks
â Smoother skin
â More confidence in your bare face
And if youâre looking for a clean, Indian-skin-friendly solution, WildOakâs AHA BHA serum might just be the glow-up youâve been waiting for.