The August Glow: Why Your Skin Needs Acids Now
- Nina Kemppi
- Aug 4, 2025
- 4 min read
Hi, Violet Gang!
It’s the beginning of August. We had a long, hot period here in Finland. I found it quite hard, but thank god I had AC (air conditioning). Our skin has been through a lot this summer. Between heat, humidity, sunscreen layers (I hope!), and long sun-drenched days, it's normal for your skin to feel a little congested or dull. I used various types of acids, including AHAs and BHAs, throughout my summer break. I have a combination skin type. So, do you actually need AHAs or BHAs in your skincare routine at the moment?
AHAs and BHAs are clinically proven exfoliating acids, but your skin’s natural renewal process is already hard at work. These acids don’t replace that process; they simply give it a helpful little push by sloughing off dead skin cells to reveal the smoother, brighter skin underneath.
The real question isn’t whether AHA/BHA products work — it’s whether they’re right for your current skin concerns, especially during these hot and often humid summer and end-of-summer days.
AHA vs. BHA: What's Right for Summer Skin?
AHAs are ideal for normal to dry, sun-damaged skin (a common concern this time of year). They stay on the surface, brightening and smoothing while enhancing moisture.
BHAs, on the other hand, are oil-soluble and penetrate deeper into your pores, making them ideal for individuals who notice more breakouts, clogged pores, or shine due to sweat and SPF buildup.
Effectiveness depends on exposure time and matching the acid to your needs. AHAs tackle signs of aging and dullness; BHAs work their magic on breakouts and excess oil. Both can be useful during August, depending on what your skin is dealing with after months of sun and heat.
Signs You Might Need Exfoliation Right Now
Are you unsure whether your skin even needs exfoliating? These late-summer signals can give you a clue:
Dullness – Dead skin builds up more in summer when sunscreen and sweat create a stubborn surface layer.
Rough texture or flakiness – All that sun can dehydrate skin, leaving it patchy and dry.
Congested pores – A cocktail of heat, sweat, SPF, and pollution can clog things up.
Uneven tone or dark spots – UV exposure slows skin turnover, making pigment hang around longer. Heat can also cause a melasma flare-up.
Products not absorbing well – If your moisturizer or serum is just sitting on top of your skin, buildup could be to blame.
Why Scrubs Might Not Cut It in August
Physical exfoliants — those grainy scrubs — can feel satisfying but might do more harm than good, especially on sun-exposed or sweaty skin. Harsh scrubbing can cause micro-tears or spread bacteria from heat-induced breakouts, which is why I don’t recommend physical exfoliants on the face, neck, and décolleté area, as they are too harsh. I think they are great for the body, including the arms, elbows, feet, ankles, knees, back, and so forth.
Even gentle scrubs don’t reach deeper pore congestion, which is often a more significant issue during the summer months.
What Chemical Exfoliants Can Do for You Now
Chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs and BHAs, gently break down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more evenly. This is especially helpful in the summer, when your skin may be producing more oil or retaining sun damage.
AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid): water-soluble, surface-level exfoliation. Great for fading sun spots, fine lines, and dullness. Read my blog post about glycolic acid here.
BHAs (like salicylic acid): oil-soluble, deeper exfoliation. Ideal for oily skin, clogged pores, and post-sweat breakouts.
PHAs (like gluconolactone): gentler exfoliation with added hydration — a smart pick for sensitive or post-sun skin.
Targeted Help: Which Acid for Which Concern?
AHA: Use if you're seeing...
Sun spots or hyperpigmentation
Dull, tired-looking skin
Fine lines from all that squinting in the sun😎
Dehydrated patches or rough texture
Try glycolic acid to boost glow or lactic acid for a hydration hit.
BHA: Use if you're dealing with...
More oil than usual
Blackheads and breakouts (missed face washes, SPF and sweat!)
Pores that look larger than you'd like
Inflamed or irritated spots
Salicylic acid helps manage all that mid-summer skin congestion.
PHA: Use if you have...
Very sensitive skin or irritation from too much sun
A need for gentler exfoliation without losing hydration
Can I Use AHA and BHA Together in August?
Absolutely — with caution.
Pairing AHAs and BHAs can give you the benefits of both surface and pore-level exfoliation. However, summer skin is often more vulnerable, especially after sun exposure, so approach this duo with caution.
Try one of these summer-friendly combos:
Morning/Evening Split: Use BHA in the morning and AHA at night (always follow with sunscreen).
Alternate Days: AHA one day, BHA the next — gentler, more sustainable.
Weekly Rotations: Focus on one for a week, then switch.
Start low and slow: aim for 2–3 times per week at most, especially if you're just starting. And hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
Before You Dive In: August-Specific Skincare Tips
Always perform a patch test — sun-stressed skin can react more easily.
Choose lower concentrations at first: 10% or less AHA, 1–2% BHA.
Time your applications around sun exposure: nighttime is best for AHA use.
Sunscreen is essential — AHAs can increase sun sensitivity by up to 50%.
Give your skin rest days — no actives, just calming hydration and barrier support.
If your skin is acting up or you're unsure, consult a dermatologist — especially if you're taking medication or have sensitive conditions like rosacea or eczema.
My Product Recommendations *affiliate links
Violet-Tinted Conclusion
This isn’t about trends — it’s about what your skin is asking for.
In August, your face may be crying out for a refresh. Dullness, congestion, breakouts, or patchiness are often summer’s parting gifts. That’s when AHA and BHA exfoliants can truly shine — if used thoughtfully and in moderation.
Start small, stay consistent, protect with SPF, and pay attention to how your skin feels. You don’t need every product; you just need the right one, at the right time. And right now? It might just be time to help your skin shed what summer left behind.
If you have any questions, I’m happy to help.
Violet-tinted, Your Way.
Nina💜
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