AHAs vs PHAs: Which Exfoliant Is Right for You?
A complete guide to choosing the best acid for glowing, even-toned skin
In the world of chemical exfoliation, AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids) are two skincare powerhouses — but they work differently, and not all skin types tolerate them the same way.
So, how do you decide between AHA and PHA exfoliants? And what exactly do they do for your skin?
Let’s break it down — with product recs from WildOak, too.
🔬 What Are AHAs?
AHAs are water-soluble exfoliants that work on the skin’s surface. They help remove dead skin cells, improve radiance, and fade pigmentation. Common AHAs include:
-Glycolic acid – most potent, great for dullness
-Lactic acid – more gentle, ideal for dry/sensitive skin
-Mandelic acid – mild and good for acne-prone skin
✅ Benefits of AHAs:
-Brightens and smooths skin texture
-Fades acne scars and pigmentation
-Boosts cell turnover for even tone
🔥 WildOak AHA-Based Products
1. WildOak AHA Body Wash (Brightening)
Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, aloe vera
Best For: Body pigmentation, tan removal, ingrown-prone areas
Exfoliating Body Wash for Smoother Skin, Deep Clean & Glow
This gentle exfoliating body wash is a powerhouse for removing dead skin buildup and revealing smoother, brighter body skin. Ideal for dark elbows, knees, underarms, and back acne spots.
2. WildOak Brightening Body Scrub – Orange Sugar AHA
Key Ingredients: Fruit-derived AHAs, sugar granules, niacinamide
Best For: Rough, dry patches and dull body skin
Orange Vitamin C Shea Butter Sugar Body Scrub with Vegan Collagen & Peptides
Combines physical + chemical exfoliation for glow-boosting, spot-fading effects, especially helpful before shaving or tanning.
🌿 What Are PHAs?
PHAs are second-generation exfoliants — similar to AHAs but with larger molecules, which means they penetrate more slowly and gently. Popular PHAs include:
-Gluconolactone
-Lactobionic acid
✅ Benefits of PHAs:
-Suitable for very sensitive or reactive skin
-Exfoliates gently while also hydrating the skin
-Strengthens skin barrier over time
-Less sun sensitivity than AHAs
✨ WildOak PHA-Inclusive Products
3. WildOak Underarm Brightening Spray
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide 5%, Cica, PHA, zinc PCA
Best For: Daily odor + pigmentation care for sensitive skin
Underarm Brightening & Odour Control Spray
This alcohol-free spray uses gentle PHAs and niacinamide to fade dark underarms without irritation. It smooths bumpy texture and calms redness while preventing odor — perfect post-shave or post-wax.
4. WildOak Face Cleanser with PHA & Centella (Coming Soon)
If you’re dealing with barrier-compromised or redness-prone skin, keep an eye on WildOak’s upcoming face cleanser with PHAs and Cica. Designed to cleanse and exfoliate — the gentle way.
🧴 AHA vs PHA – Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | AHA | PHA |
|---|
| Exfoliation Strength | Medium to High | Mild |
| Skin Type | Normal, oily, pigmented | Sensitive, dry, rosacea-prone |
| Hydrating | Not hydrating (may dry skin) | Yes – retains moisture |
| Irritation Risk | Moderate (tingling, flaking) | Low (non-irritating) |
| Best For | Dull skin, acne scars, rough texture | Barrier repair, gentle resurfacing |
| Sun Sensitivity | High – SPF mandatory | Minimal – SPF still advised |
🧠 Pro Tip: Layer Smart
Use AHAs 2–3x per week for body glow (like WildOak’s body wash or scrub), and PHAs daily for sensitive spots (like underarms or neck).
✨ Final Verdict
If your goal is visible glow, smoothness, and spot fading, go for AHAs — especially WildOak’s body exfoliators.
If you want gentle, barrier-safe care, PHAs are your best bet — and WildOak’s Underarm Spray is the gold standard.
No matter your choice, exfoliate wisely — and always pair with sunscreen for best results.
