When it comes to exfoliating serums, things can get confusing fast. AHA, BHA, PHA—if it looks like alphabet soup, you’re not alone. Alra offers two powerful yet gentle options in this category: Renewal Serum and PHA Serum.
At first glance, the two seem very similar. Both are designed to smooth texture, fade dullness, unclog pores, and renew the skin without the harsh sting that strong peels can bring. But look closer, and you’ll notice subtle ingredient and texture differences that make each one shine for different skin needs.
We created two versions of our exfoliating serum because no two skin types are the same, and we want everyone to have a formula that feels right and works best for their unique needs.
If you’ve ever wondered which Alra serum is right for you, this guide breaks it down.
Why Use Exfoliating Serums at All?
Exfoliating acids are the quiet heroes of skincare. Instead of physically scrubbing your skin with harsh beads, these acids work on a chemical level to loosen dead skin cells and clear away buildup. That means:
- Smoother skin texture
- Brighter complexion
- Less clogged pores
- Better absorption of other products
- Fewer fine lines over time
The trick is choosing the right balance of acids for your skin type. That’s where Renewal and PHA Serum come in.
Meet the Alra Renewal Serum
Star Ingredients:
- 15% Gluconolactone (PHA)
- 5.4% Lactic Acid (AHA)
- 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA)
This formula is a triple-acid blend that’s both gentle and effective. Here’s how it works:
- Gluconolactone (PHA): A larger molecule than glycolic or lactic acid, so it penetrates more slowly and gently. It hydrates as it exfoliates, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
- Lactic Acid (AHA): A classic for softening rough patches, fading uneven tone, and boosting natural hydration.
- Salicylic Acid (BHA): Oil-soluble, so it dives deep into pores to clear excess sebum, reduce acne, and calm inflammation.
Texture and Feel: Renewal has a slightly richer texture. Some describe it as having a faintly “oily” slip, which makes it extra comforting for normal to dry skin types.
Best For:
- Dry or combination skin
- Those battling dullness, uneven tone, and fine lines
- People who want stronger exfoliation but still gentle enough for sensitive skin
Meet the Alra PHA Serum
Star Ingredients:
- 5% Glycolic Acid (AHA)
- 15% Gluconolactone (PHA)
- 0.5% Willow Bark Extract (BHA source)
This formula has a slightly different balance:
- Glycolic Acid (AHA): The smallest and strongest AHA. It penetrates deeper than lactic acid, making it great for resurfacing skin and tackling stubborn texture. At 5%, it’s strong enough to work, but not so strong that it burns.
- Gluconolactone (PHA): Same as in Renewal, hydrating and gentle.
- Willow Bark Extract (natural BHA source): Provides a milder pore-clearing effect compared to 2% salicylic acid.
Texture and Feel: PHA Serum feels lighter and more water-like on the skin compared to Renewal. It doesn’t have the richer slip, making it more comfortable for oily or acne-prone skin.
Best For:
- Oily or combination skin
- People who want gentle daily exfoliation without feeling greasy
- Those sensitive to stronger salicylic acid but still need pore care
Ingredient Comparison: Renewal vs. PHA
To make it easier, here’s a side-by-side:
|
Ingredient
|
Renewal Serum
|
PHA Serum
|
What It Does
|
|
PHA (Gluconolactone)
|
15%
|
15%
|
Gentle exfoliation, hydrates, antioxidant
|
|
AHA (Lactic Acid)
|
5.4%
|
–
|
Hydrates, brightens, smooths texture
|
|
AHA (Glycolic Acid)
|
–
|
5%
|
Stronger resurfacing, reduces fine lines, evens skin
|
|
BHA (Salicylic Acid)
|
2%
|
– (0.5% Willow Bark)
|
Clears pores, reduces acne, anti-inflammatory
|
|
Texture
|
Richer, faintly oily
|
Lighter, smoother
|
|
|
Skin Type Match
|
Normal to dry
|
Oily to combination
|
|
Similarities Between the Two
Even with their differences, both serums deliver the same core benefits:
- Exfoliate dead skin cells for smoother skin
- Even out tone and brighten dullness
- Reduce clogged pores and support clearer skin
- Hydrate gently thanks to PHA’s humectant properties
- Suitable for sensitive skin compared to harsh peels
So if you’re switching from one to the other, you won’t be missing out. The core philosophy of gentle yet effective exfoliation stays the same.
How to Choose Between Renewal and PHA Serum
Here’s a simple way to decide:
-
Choose Renewal Serum if:
- Your skin leans dry or combination
- You want the extra hydration and comfort of lactic acid
- You struggle with fine lines, dullness, and need deeper renewal
- You don’t mind a richer, slightly oily texture
-
Choose PHA Serum if:
- Your skin is oily, shiny, or prone to congestion
- You prefer a lighter feel on the skin
- You’re sensitive to salicylic acid but still want pore-clearing action
- You want a daily-use option that feels gentle but effective
Can You Use Both?
Yes, but not at the same time. Both contain exfoliating acids, so doubling up can risk irritation. Instead, think of them as alternating options depending on your skin’s mood.
- On drier days → Reach for Renewal Serum
- On oilier, breakout-prone days → Use PHA Serum
This way, you can tailor your exfoliation routine without overwhelming your skin.
How to Use Renewal or PHA Serum in Your Routine
- Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser.
- Apply Serum: Use 1–2 pumps of either Renewal or PHA Serum, depending on your skin needs.
- Moisturize: Follow with a soothing moisturizer to lock in hydration.
- Daytime? Sunscreen is a must. Exfoliating acids make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, so SPF is non-negotiable.
Tip: Start with 2–3 times a week, then build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it.
Final Thoughts: Renewal vs. PHA Serum
The truth is, you can’t go wrong with either. Both Renewal Serum and PHA Serum are crafted to exfoliate gently, making them ideal for sensitive and medically delicate skin types - a hallmark of Alra’s formulations.
- Renewal Serum leans toward dry or aging skin, thanks to lactic acid and a richer texture.
- PHA Serum feels lighter and caters to oily or acne-prone skin, with glycolic acid and willow bark for a balanced glow.
At the end of the day, it’s less about “which is better” and more about “which is better for you.”
