What are the molecular and clinical differences between AHA (Glycolic Acid) and BHA (Salicylic Acid), two types of chemical peels?

AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids – e.g., Glycolic Acid) are water-soluble molecules. Due to their small molecular size, they exfoliate the skin by breaking down dead cell bonds in the upper layer, lightening blemishes and increasing moisture capacity; they are ideal for dry, dehydrated, and blemished skin. BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids – e.g., Salicylic Acid) are oil-soluble molecules. Thanks to this property, they can penetrate the sebum (oil) barrier inside the pores. They cleanse the inside of pores of dead cells and oil plugs, eliminate blackheads, and dry out pimples with their anti-inflammatory effect; they are the gold standard for oily, acne-prone, and porous skin.