- Beauty Glossary
- PHAs
Polyhydroxy Acid
With a name like polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), it's no wonder that some of us are a little confused when it comes to knowing exactly what these key skin care ingredients do.
But it's not as confusing as you may think. Essentially, these third-generation acids encourage mild peeling to gently strip away the surface layer of skin, revealing a healthier complexion beneath.
See our phas guide to answer your questions like how often should I be using PHA beauty products and what exactly are the differences between PHAs and AHA/BHAs.
Brands With PHAs Products
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Erno Laszlo White Marble Dual Phase Vitamin C Peel

Verso Skincare Enzyme Peel

Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Body Cream

Lancôme Juicy Shaker Lip Gloss

Weleda Wild Rose Smoothing Night Cream

Weleda Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion

AMELIORATE 3 Steps To Smooth Skin Kit

Ellis Faas Compact Powder

NIOD Flavanone Mud Mask

Tiffany & Co. Shower Gel

Hum Nutrition Flatter Me

FOREO UFO 2 Smart Mask Treatment Device

FOREO UFO Mini 2 Smart Mask Treatment Device

Erno Laszlo Multi Phase Makeup Remover

Dermalogica Phyto Nature Serum

StriVectin Hyaluronic Dual-Response Serum

Kiehl's Daily Refining Milk Peel Toner

StriVectin Tri Phase Daily Glow Toner

AMELIORATE Transforming Facial Serum

BABOR Skinovage Calming Bi-Phase Serum

CosRx AC Collection Calming Liquid Mild

Lipstick Queen Altered Universe Lip Gloss

SILKE London The Silke Hair Wrap

AMELIORATE Resurfacing Facial Cleanser

Bumble and bumble Surf Infusion

Avène Cleanance Mat Mattifying Lotion

Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster Oil

Yves Saint Laurent Volupte Liquid Color Balm

MAC 287 Duo Fiber Eyeshadow Brush

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum

Benton PHA Peeling Toner

Omorovicza The Cure

Murad Retinol Perfected

Ecooking Day Cream
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Frequently Asked Questions about PHAs products
What are PHAs and what do they do?
PHAs are a skin care trend that have taken 2018 by storm, and are just as effective (but less irritable) than their brother and sister acids, AHAs and BHAs. PHAs gently break down that top layer of skin to reveal a vibrant finish.
A larger molecular structure means that they are less able than AHAs and BHAs to penetrate the skin – but this doesn’t mean you’re missing out. Instead of penetrating, PHAs dissolve the protein bond that keeps dead skin attached to your face, treating you to a revived texture.
What are the skin care benefits of PHAs?
The list is almost endless with this one. As PHAs have the ability to dissolve dead skin cells, the complexion is left looking and feeling noticeably brighter. Better still, PHAs are known to improve the skin’s hydration levels due to their ability to attract moisture. Softer skin and a surge of hydration? We’re sold.
Who should use PHA beauty products?
PHAs are suitable for most skin types, but if you suffer from acne then you may want to seek out more penetrative treatments, such as salicylic acid.
What other ingredients/products go well with PHAs?
Due to their gentle nature, PHAs can be mixed with other key skin care staples. When done properly, mixing PHAs with AHAs provides an out-of-this-world glow. Equally, mixing PHAs with 1% vitamin A can reduce pigmentation and generally brighten up your skin.
As with anything in life, it is important to not overuse these skin care acids, so bear in mind that the potency of formulas increases when you blend multiple acids.
How often should I be using PHA beauty products?
It’s worth considering what form the PHAs are in. Toners, cleansers and serums often have a low concentration of PHAs, making these products safe to be used pretty much every day. However, we recommend always listening to your skin’s demands above anything else.
Are there any drawbacks/side effects of PHAs?
The gentle stripping properties of PHAs can make skin more sensitive to UVA rays, making it paramount that you wear SPF daily.
What exactly are the differences between PHAs and AHA/BHAs?
It all comes down to the molecular structures. AHAs and BHAs tend to enter the skin’s surface more aggressively because of their smaller molecules, which can quickly penetrate the skin. However, the larger molecules that belong to PHAs can’t infiltrate the skin’s surface quite so intensely, making them a softer alternative for sensitive skin.
As an eczema sufferer, can I use PHA-based beauty products?
As always, it’s best to try out a patch test before committing to a regular routine. However, clinical studies have found PHAs to be compatible with very dry skin conditions, including eczema.

Written by Hannah Liddle, Beauty Editor