Can you use AHA and BHA together?
Not in the same session for most skin. AHAs and BHAs both exfoliate, so stacking them can over-strip the skin and damage the barrier. Use one at a time, 1–3 times a week, and only combine them once your skin tolerates each on its own.
Why
AHAs (glycolic, lactic, mandelic) exfoliate the surface. BHAs (salicylic acid) exfoliate inside the pore. Together, they can over-strip the skin, cause barrier damage, and trigger reactive oiliness or redness — even in oily skin types.
What to do
Start with one exfoliant, used 1–3 times per week. Only combine AHA and BHA if your skin is well-established to tolerate both separately. Never daily.
Sources
SkinMama provides skincare information for educational and cosmetic self-care purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose, treat, or replace a dermatologist. For a medical concern, consult a qualified professional.