How many times a week should I use AHA toner?

Author: Talon Feest  |  Last update: Monday, January 26, 2026

For most skin types, using AHA exfoliators 2-3 times a week is sufficient to see noticeable results without over-exfoliating the skin. However, if you have sensitive skin, it is recommended to start with a lower frequency, such as once a week, and gradually increase as your skin tolerates it.

How often should you use AHA toner?

If you are new to actives, particularly AHAs, I suggest introducing this toner slowly into your routine, using it 1-2 times a week at night at first. Once your skin feels comfortable, gradually increase use as your skin builds up tolerance.

Is AHA once a week enough?

It really just depends on your skin. You can certainly start with once a week and then after a month or so re-evaluate and see if you want to add an additional night each week.

Can I use AHA 5% everyday?

Comments Section It's not too harsh at all. AHAs are safe for daily use, as long as they're not irritating your skin. May be try it alternate days for 3 months. If your skin doesn't feel dry, then you can use it everyday. Take it easy with AHAs.

Can I use AHA BHA 3 times a week?

Bha/aha should only be used 1-2 times a week. Ppl shouldn't be using it daily let alone twice a day because that can lead to dehydration and overexofliation, which causes a damaged and irritated skin barrier.

COSRX | 1 MONTH REVIEW + RESULTS on ACNE SKIN | AHA BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

What not to pair with AHA BHA?

Avoid pairing these ingredients with AHA BHA PHA:
  • Retinol or retinoids can make exfoliation more effective but also cause irritation and redness.
  • Benzoyl peroxide: It may break down the acid barrier of the skin and leave it less protected.

Does AHA BHA remove acne scars?

AHAs and BHAs are well-known for treating all forms of acne. AHAs are excellent for treating surface-level acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads, while BHAs clear pores and reduce acne scars.

How long after AHA can I moisturize?

You can exfoliate around the eye area, but not the eyelid or directly under the eye (along the lower lash line). You don't need to wait for your BHA or AHA to absorb or dry; you can apply any other product in your routine—moisturizer, serum, eye cream or sunscreen—immediately afterward.

Does AHA lighten skin?

Yes, AHA can also help lighten and brighten your skin. Exfoliation helps revive your skin so that it is glowing and radiant. When AHAs exfoliate your skin, you'll notice a brighter complexion and a more even skin tone. With regular use, AHAs will help dead skin cells break down—all while promoting new cell generation.

Can I use AHA toner with retinol?

Can you use AHAs and retinol together? No, our experts don't recommend using these ingredients in the same routine (unless it's formulated together in a single product) as they can lead to irritation, causing more harm than good. Instead, use AHAs on one night and use retinol, separately, the next.

Should you use AHA in the morning or night?

b) Alpha-Hydroxy-Acids (AHA's, Glycolic, Lactic)

The other liquid exfoliant is Alpha-Hydroxy-Acids (AHA's, Glycolic, Lactic). As AHA's increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, I'd suggest using this at night. If you use a AHA in the morning, always make sure to follow with a broad spectrum sunscreen.

What happens when you stop using AHA?

What will happen to my skin if I stop using AHA products? Unfortunately, you will stop seeing the benefits from using them. The renewal of new skin cells is a continuous process that slows down as we age. The use of AHA products can only help accelerate this process while you are using them.

Which is better, AHA or BHA?

In summary, AHA is best for surface-level exfoliation and improving skin texture, while BHA is better for deep cleaning pores and reducing oiliness. Both can be effective in improving skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Should you use AHA toner on wet or dry skin?

AHAs should typically be used on dry skin as they are a type of chemical exfoliant. However, as many skincare products contain AHAs – from cleansers and toners to eye creams and dedicated serums – you should follow the directions stated on each individual product.

Can you leave AHA overnight?

Do: Use it overnight. My AHAs work the night shift to smooth your skin: zero effort required. Apply my AHA lotion all over, slip into your PJs, and dream of me. Sleep tight and wake up to your best skin yet.

Does AHA stimulate collagen?

Collagen stimulators: Much like retinoids & ascorbic acid, AHAs can stimulate collagen, hence why they are a popular ingredient to incorporate into your anti-aging skin care regimen. Though AHA lotions & creams can promote some collagen remodelling, clinical strength peels are much more effective.

How long does it take to see results from AHAs?

Alpha hydroxy acids begin to work almost immediately when formulated in leave-on formats (toners, liquid exfoliants) to reveal brighter, glowy skin. It takes a bit longer, about 2-4 months, to visibly recognize AHA-related anti-aging benefits, like a decrease in appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (4).

What are the side effects of AHA?

The U.S. FDA has recommended exercising caution in relation to adverse reactions such as redness, swelling, burning, and pruritus due to use of AHA-containing products [44]. Similarly, UV-induced phototoxicity has been associated with AHA concentrations.

What should I avoid after AHA?

Some of the main skincare ingredients you should not apply to the skin after using AHA and BHA are the following.
  • Vitamin C.
  • Retinol.
  • Benzoyl peroxide.
  • Physical exfoliating scrubs.

How long does skin purging last with AHA?

How long does skin purging last? “It can last from four days to six weeks, but on average, you can expect it to occur for around two weeks.”

Can you go in the sun after using AHA?

Sunburn Alert: This product contains an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.

Does AHA remove dark spots?

Reducing hyperpigmentation, melasma, and sun damage

Regular use of AHA products or peels may help to treat hyperpigmentation or dark marks on the skin, such as: melasma. age spots.

Can you 100% remove acne scars?

Even with treatment, acne scars are difficult to heal. There's no 100% guarantee that the acne scars will be completely gone. But most treatments reduce the size of the acne scars and make them less visible.

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