What PHAs Are and Why Your Pits Need One

Your armpits deserve more love. If you’ve ever dealt with irritation, bumps, or odor that just won’t quit, your underarm skincare routine might be missing something important: a gentle exfoliant. That’s where PHAs come in.

What Are PHAs in Skincare?

PHA stands for polyhydroxy acid. It’s a type of chemical exfoliant, like its better-known cousins AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). But PHAs are a different story. They work on the surface of your skin, helping to shed dead skin cells and smooth rough texture without going too deep.

One of the most common PHAs is gluconolactone. It’s a gentle multitasker that supports your skin barrier while exfoliating. That makes it perfect for sensitive areas, including yes your armpits.

PHAs vs AHAs and BHAs: What’s the Difference?

All three acids help exfoliate your skin, but they do it in different ways:

• AHAs (like glycolic acid) go deep to target fine lines and pigmentation. They’re powerful but can sting or irritate sensitive skin.
• BHAs (like salicylic acid) go into your pores to fight acne. They’re oil-soluble and great for oily skin, but they can also be drying.
• PHAs stay on the surface. They work slower and are less likely to cause irritation, making them great for people with sensitive skin.

Think of PHAs as the gentle cousin in the exfoliating family. They do the job without the drama.

PHA Skincare Benefits for Sensitive Skin

PHAs offer some serious perks, especially when your skin is reactive, easily irritated, or prone to redness. Here’s why they’re a game-changer:

• They’re gentle exfoliants for sensitive skin. PHAs remove dead skin without damaging the healthy layers underneath.
• They help your skin barrier. Gluconolactone attracts water and supports hydration, which helps your skin stay strong and balanced.
• They have antioxidant benefits. PHAs can fight off free radicals, which contribute to aging and stress on your skin.
• They don’t increase sun sensitivity as much as AHAs, making them safer for daily use.

If you’ve ever used a harsh exfoliant that left your skin red or raw, PHAs are your gentle solution.

Why Your Pits Need PHAs

Your underarms go through a lot. Shaving, sweating, and deodorant buildup can lead to irritation, clogged pores, and odor. That’s where PHAs for underarms really shine.

Adding a PHA like gluconolactone to your underarm skincare routine can:

• Smooth bumpy skin caused by shaving or ingrown hairs
• Help with odor by removing dead skin cells that trap bacteria
• Reduce irritation from deodorants or antiperspirants that contain harsh ingredients
• Support the skin barrier so your pits stay healthy, balanced, and less reactive

If your armpits sting or break out after deodorant, it’s not just you. That skin is thinner and more delicate than you might think. A skin barrier friendly exfoliant like gluconolactone can help calm things down while still keeping the area clean and smooth.

Gluconolactone for Skin: A Secret Hero

Let’s talk more about gluconolactone. This ingredient might not be a household name yet but it deserves some spotlight.

Gluconolactone is a type of PHA that works as a gentle exfoliant and a humectant. That means it draws moisture into your skin while helping remove dead cells. The result? Softer, smoother skin that feels hydrated, not tight or dry.

It also helps with pH balance. Your skin has a natural pH that keeps it healthy. Many common products can throw that balance off, especially in sensitive areas like your underarms. Gluconolactone helps maintain that balance, which reduces irritation and helps your skin stay strong.

How PHAs Help the Skin Barrier

Your skin barrier is your body’s natural defense system. It keeps good stuff (like moisture) in and bad stuff (like bacteria and allergens) out. When it’s damaged, you’ll notice redness, dryness, itching, and even breakouts.

PHAs, especially gluconolactone, are known to:

• Reinforce hydration by pulling water into the skin
• Reduce inflammation that can weaken your barrier
• Exfoliate without stripping, so the barrier stays intact

That’s why PHAs are a top choice for anyone looking for a skin barrier friendly exfoliant especially in delicate areas like the underarms.

How to Use PHAs in Your Underarm Skincare Routine

Ready to try PHAs for yourself? Here’s how to add them to your routine:

1. Cleanse first. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to wash your underarms.
2. Apply a PHA exfoliant. Look for a product with gluconolactone. Apply it to dry skin and let it absorb before layering anything else.
3. Don’t overdo it. Start with a few times a week and increase as your skin adjusts.
4. Follow with deodorant. Choose one that’s free from harsh ingredients like baking soda or alcohol.

Pro tip: Exfoliating your pits at night gives your skincare time to work while you sleep.

Best Exfoliant for Armpits? Look for PHAs

When shopping for the best exfoliant for armpits, keep your eye on the ingredient list. Skip products with gritty scrubs or strong acids that can tear or irritate your skin. Instead, go for:

• Gluconolactone or other PHAs
• A pH-balanced formula that matches your skin’s natural acidity
• No fragrance or alcohol, which can trigger irritation

A good underarm exfoliant should feel more like skincare than a harsh treatment. If it soothes and smooths, you’re on the right track.

Quick Takeaways: PHAs for Underarms

• What are PHAs in skincare? PHAs are gentle exfoliants that help remove dead skin without irritation.
• Why use PHAs for underarms? They smooth skin, fight odor, and support your skin barrier.
• What’s gluconolactone? A type of PHA that hydrates and gently exfoliates while protecting sensitive skin.
• PHAs vs AHAs BHAs? PHAs are less irritating but still effective, making them great for delicate areas.
• Best exfoliant for armpits? Look for a PHA-based formula that’s pH-balanced and free from harsh ingredients.

Give Your Pits the Care They Deserve

Your underarms are more than just a spot for deodorant. They’re skin too sensitive skin that deserves thoughtful care. PHAs like gluconolactone offer powerful benefits without the sting. They exfoliate gently, hydrate deeply, and help your skin stay strong and balanced.

If your current routine leaves your pits feeling dry, bumpy, or irritated, it might be time for a change. Start small. Add a PHA into your weekly routine and see how your skin responds. Your underarms will thank you.