Best AHAs and BHAs for Large Pores and Rough Texture (With Product Picks)
Written and fact-checked by: Mollie Kelly Tufman, PhD (Biochemistry)
Updated January 2026
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly believe in.
Why Large Pores + Rough Texture Need the Right Acid (Not “More Exfoliation”)
Ever touch your face and think, “Ah yes — bumps, craters, and a texture situation”? Same.
Here’s the truth: large pores and rough texture usually come from two different problems:
- Pores = oil + dead skin getting trapped (hello, blackheads/closed comedones)
- Texture = dead-skin buildup and uneven shedding on the surface
So if you’ve been scrubbing harder, using lemon juice (please don’t), or randomly rotating acids like a skincare roulette wheel… you’re not alone. You’re just missing a framework.
This post is your decision hub for pores + texture: which acid to choose, how to use it safely, and which products actually fit your skin.
Which Acid Do You Actually Need for Pores & Texture?
-
If you have blackheads, clogged pores, closed comedones, or bumpy congestion
→ start with BHA
Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it can actually get into the pore lining and break up oil and debris. -
If your pores look stretched and your skin feels rough or dull (but not truly clogged)
→ add AHA support
AHAs smooth the skin’s surface so pores look tighter and texture reflects light more evenly. -
If you have both (very common)
→ use a simple alternating strategy
BHA 2–3 nights per week + AHA 1–2 nights per week, with rest nights focused on barrier repair.
Rule of thumb: for pores, BHA leads. For texture, AHA supports.
The Science Behind AHAs and BHAs
Let’s start with a quick chemistry pop quiz (don’t worry, no one’s grading you):
What’s the difference between an AHA and a BHA?
If your brain just said, “Uhh… one’s in my toner and one’s… also in my toner?” — you’re not alone. But here’s the actual breakdown:
BHAs = Pore Plumbers
Beta hydroxy acids — a.k.a. salicylic acid — are oil-soluble, which means they can penetrate deep into your pores. Once inside, they break down the mix of oil, dead skin, and gunk that loves to hang out and throw a party in your T-zone.
They also have anti-inflammatory powers (Arif, 2015), so if you’re acne-prone, BHA is your ride-or-die.
Think of it as a chemical declogging snake for your face, but… you know, less terrifying.
If large pores are your main complaint, BHA is usually the first lever that moves the needle.
AHAs = Surface Smoothers
Alpha hydroxy acids — like glycolic and lactic acid — are water-soluble exfoliants that work on the surface of your skin. They loosen the “glue” (desmosomes) that holds dead skin cells together, helping them shed faster and more evenly. Basically, they’re like little bouncers that tell the dull, flaky cells to take the exit — kindly but firmly.
AHAs are your go-to if your main issues are rough texture, dullness, and skin that looks a little… meh.
Bonus: many AHAs also stimulate collagen production (Sharad, 2013), which can help firm things up over time and reduce the look of pores and fine lines.
Best BHAs for Pore-Clogged, Bumpy Skin
If your pores are always putting on a performance — blackheads, whiteheads, surprise breakouts — BHAs are about to be your new ride-or-die. These oil-soluble acids don’t just exfoliate the surface. They dive inside your pores, dissolve the gunk, and help calm inflammation while they’re at it.
Basically, they’re the skincare equivalent of snaking your drains. But prettier.
🌀 Salicylic Acid (The OG BHA)
Salicylic acid is the only BHA that matters in skincare — and it’s earned its reputation. Because it’s oil-soluble, it can shimmy its way into clogged pores and break up the dead-skin-and-sebum cocktail that causes congestion in the first place.
Why it works:
- Penetrates deep into oily pores and dissolves blockages
- Calms inflammation and redness (it’s chemically related to aspirin!)
- Reduces blackheads, whiteheads, and the appearance of pores over time (Arif, 2015)
Great for: Oily, acne-prone, or combo skin types — especially if blackheads, clogged pores, or post-breakout texture are your main issues.
Product picks:
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Best if: blackheads, clogged pores, or persistent congestion are your main issue.
Skip if: your skin barrier is very dry or irritated right now — start with a rinse-off BHA cleanser instead.
Best if: you want BHA benefits with minimal irritation or barrier stress.
Skip if: you’re dealing with stubborn, deep congestion that needs a leave-on exfoliant.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Serum
Best if: oily or acne-prone skin needs lightweight, targeted pore clearing.
Skip if: your skin is dry, tight, or easily sensitized by leave-on actives.
Best AHAs for Rough, Textured Skin
If your skin feels bumpy, looks dull, or just refuses to glow no matter how many green juices you drink, AHAs are here to help. This group of acids includes several options, each with its own strengths — but they all work by resurfacing the skin. Think: smoother texture, fewer flakes, and way less “why does my face feel like a cat’s tongue?”
Here are the best AHAs to get you glowing — without overdoing it.
✨ Glycolic Acid (The Heavy Lifter)
If you want results you can see, glycolic acid is your girl. She’s the smallest AHA molecule, which means she penetrates deeper into your skin than the rest — and gets to work fast.
Why it works:
- Loosens up dead skin so it sheds faster and more evenly (Sharad, 2013)
- Stimulates collagen production over time — hello, firmer skin and tighter-looking pores
- Improves rough texture, fine lines, and even helps fade discoloration
Great for: Normal, oily, or combination skin types who want visible results and can tolerate a stronger acid.
Product picks:
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Best if: rough texture and dullness on normal, oily, or combination skin.
Skip if: you’re sensitive, reactive, or already using retinoids frequently.
Pixi Glow Tonic (5% Glycolic Acid)
Best if: you want gentle glycolic exfoliation with added soothing support.
Skip if: you’re already using multiple exfoliating products.
Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Best if: you want light resurfacing in a rinse-off format.
Skip if: you’re targeting stubborn texture that needs a leave-on acid.
💧 Lactic Acid (The Gentle Overachiever)
If glycolic feels like a bit much, meet lactic acid. It’s a larger molecule, so it doesn’t dive quite as deep — but that makes it gentler, especially for sensitive or dry skin.
Why it works:
- Exfoliates while boosting hydration (yes, really)
- Helps improve tone and texture without irritation
- Great for barrier-sensitive folks who still want that smooth, glowy look
Great for: Dry, sensitive, or reactive skin types who want results without the sting.
Product picks:
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA
Best if: you’re new to acids or have dry, sensitive skin.
Skip if: you want fast, dramatic resurfacing.
Sunday Riley Good Genes (Lactic Acid)
Best if: you want smoother texture and glow with minimal irritation.
Skip if: you’re already layering several leave-on actives.
👀 Wait… Can You Use AHAs and BHAs?
Yes — but like dating two hot people at once, it’s all about timing and balance.
- If you’re new to acids: start with one type first. Salicylic if you’re breakout-prone, glycolic or lactic if you’re dry/dull.
- Alternate nights if you’re using both — or use BHA in the morning and AHA at night.
- Don’t forget to moisturize and use SPF like your life depends on it (because your barrier kind of does).
How to Use AHAs & BHAs in Your Routine (Without Wrecking Your Face)
Now that you’re stocked with science and product picks, here’s the golden question:
How do you actually use these acids without turning your skin into a flaky, over-exfoliated cautionary tale?
Good news: you don’t need a 10-step routine or a PhD in skincare chemistry (I already did that part for you). You just need a smart, simple schedule — and a little restraint.
🧴 Sample Weekly Routine
Morning (AM):
- Gentle cleanser
- Niacinamide serum (optional, helps reduce oil and inflammation)
- Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (non-negotiable!)
Evening (PM):
- Cleanser
- AHA or BHA product (alternate nights, or use 2–3x/week if new)
- Barrier-repair moisturizer
Optional extras:
- Clay mask 1–2x/week if you’re extra oily or congested
- Hydrating serum or mist on off nights to soothe and replenish
🧠 Quick Tips
- Don’t mix everything at once. You don’t need to layer salicylic + glycolic + retinol + hopes and dreams. Pick one exfoliant at a time.
- Go slow. Start with 2–3 nights a week, especially if your skin is dry, sensitive, or just dramatic.
- Moisturize like it’s your full-time job. Every night. No exceptions.
- SPF every. single. morning. Acids make your skin more sun-sensitive. Don’t undo all your hard work by skipping sunscreen.
Common Mistakes (And What to Do Instead)
Even with the right products, it’s easy to go a little acid-happy. Let’s keep your skin glowy — not inflamed, flaky, or furious.
❌ Mistake 1: Using too much, too often
More exfoliation ≠ better skin. It equals redness, irritation, and a wrecked barrier. Start with 2–3 nights a week and work your way up if needed.
❌ Mistake 2: Mixing strong actives without a plan
Salicylic acid + glycolic + retinol + vitamin C = an irritated mess. If you’re layering, know what plays nice together. (Hint: most acids do better solo.)
❌ Mistake 3: Forgetting to moisturize
Exfoliated skin is vulnerable skin. If you skip moisturizer, your barrier might throw hands. Always follow acids with something calming and hydrating.
❌ Mistake 4: Skipping SPF
Using acids without sunscreen is like cleaning your carpet, then leaving the windows open during a dust storm. You’re just asking for hyperpigmentation and photo damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use AHAs and BHAs at the same time?
You can, but ease into it. Try alternating nights or using one in the morning (usually BHA) and one at night (usually AHA). And only if your skin is chill about it.
Which acid is better for large pores?
BHAs are best for visibly clogged pores (hi, blackheads), while AHAs help refine surface texture and support collagen. Together, they’re a dream team.
Do acids “purge” your skin?
Sometimes! Especially with BHAs or if you're new to exfoliating. If breakouts pop up where you normally get them and clear within a few weeks, it’s likely purging. If it’s spreading or painful — that's irritation.
What if I have sensitive skin?
Start with lactic acid or a low-strength salicylic acid product. Go slow, keep your routine simple, and prioritize barrier-repair ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide.
Can I exfoliate every day?
If your skin loves it and you're using a super gentle formula — maybe. But most people don’t need daily acids. You want progress, not peeling.
Final Takeaway: Smooth Skin, Backed by Science
Whether you’re battling blackheads, dullness, or just looking for exfoliating acids for textured skin that actually deliver, AHAs and BHAs are proven to help. The key is consistency, patience, and not throwing every acid you own at your face on night one.
Start with one or two products that fit your skin type and ease them into your routine. And don’t forget: moisturizer and sunscreen are your exfoliant’s besties — don’t leave them out.
🛒 Recap: Hero Product Picks
For smoothing texture:
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Sunday Riley Good Genes (Lactic Acid)
Pixi Glow Tonic (5% Glycolic Acid)
For clearing pores + breakouts:
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Serum
REFERENCES
Arif T. Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: a comprehensive review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015 Aug 26;8:455-61. PubMed
Sharad J. Glycolic acid peel therapy - a current review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2013 Nov 11;6:281-8. PubMed
Boo YC. Mechanistic Basis and Clinical Evidence for the Applications of Nicotinamide (Niacinamide) to Control Skin Aging and Pigmentation. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021 Aug 21;10(8):1315. PubMed
Lee SJ, Seok J, Jeong SY, Park KY, Li K, Seo SJ. Facial Pores: Definition, Causes, and Treatment Options. Dermatol Surg. 2016 Mar;42(3):277-85. PubMed
Wang CM, Huang CL, Hu CT, Chan HL. The effect of glycolic acid on the treatment of acne in Asian skin. Dermatol Surg. 1997 Jan;23(1):23-9. PubMed
