Exfoliant
Salicylic Acid
Also: BHA · Beta-Hydroxy Acid
An oil-soluble exfoliant that gets inside the pore. The most evidence-backed answer to congestion and active breakouts.
What it is
A beta-hydroxy acid derived from willow bark or synthesised in lab. Unlike water-soluble AHAs, it is oil-soluble — the only common exfoliant that can dissolve through the sebum lining the pore wall.
How it works
Penetrates the lipid layer inside follicles, breaks down the keratin plug at the base of blackheads and whiteheads, and reduces inflammation in active acne lesions. Effective from 0.5% (daily wear) to 2% (treatment).
Who it is for
Combination to oily skin. Recurring blackheads, particularly in the T-zone. Active breakouts, hormonal acne, congestion that physical exfoliation will not budge.
What to watch for
Combine with hydrators (panthenol, hyaluronic acid, ceramides) to offset the drying effect. Avoid over-layering with multiple acids in the same routine.
Found in