Beta-hydroxy acid, also known as BHA, is a type of organic acid that is commonly used in skincare products. It is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of beta-hydroxy acid, as well as its associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Beta-hydroxy acid is a type of organic acid that is derived from salicylic acid. It is commonly used in skincare products to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. BHA is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which makes it effective in treating acne-prone skin.
Origin
Beta-hydroxy acid was first discovered in the 1950s by a chemist named John Franz. He was working for a chemical company called Dow Chemicals, and he was trying to develop a new herbicide. During his research, he discovered that a compound called salicylic acid had herbicidal properties. He then modified the structure of salicylic acid to create beta-hydroxy acid, which was more effective as a herbicide.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, beta-hydroxy acid is defined as “any of several hydroxy acids having a hydroxy group attached to the beta-carbon atom of an aliphatic acid.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a type of organic acid used in skincare products to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.”
Associations
Beta-hydroxy acid is commonly associated with skincare products, particularly those that are designed to treat acne-prone skin. It is also associated with exfoliation and the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
Synonyms
The synonyms of beta-hydroxy acid include salicylic acid, 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, and 3-hydroxybutanoic acid.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for beta-hydroxy acid, as it is a specific type of organic acid.
The same root words
The same root words as beta-hydroxy acid include hydroxy, acid, and beta.
Example Sentences
- “I use a skincare product that contains beta-hydroxy acid to help unclog my pores.”
- “My dermatologist recommended that I use a product with salicylic acid, which is a type of beta-hydroxy acid.”
- “Beta-hydroxy acid is effective in treating acne-prone skin because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.”