Exfoliant

Salicylic Acid

BHA acid with lipophilic properties — salicylic acid penetrates the pores and dissolves sebum from within. The only chemical exfoliant capable of effectively cleansing the pore channel. The standard treatment for acne and clogged pores for over 100 years.

BHAacneexfoliationpore tightening

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

1/5

What is it?

Salicylic acid (2-hydroxybenzoic acid) — beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) naturally found in willow bark (Salix alba). Its lipophilic nature (fat-soluble) distinguishes it from AHA: it penetrates through sebum into the pore channel, not just on the surface. pKa = 3.0 — effective at pH 3–4. FDA approved as an OTC acne treatment in concentrations of 0.5–2%. LHA (lipohydroxy acid) — a derivative of SA with even greater lipophilicity.

Key active for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Toners, serums, cleansers, masks with SA 0.5–2%. Effective against comedones, papules, and pustules. Not suitable for pregnant women and those allergic to salicylates.

Key Benefits

✦

Cleansing pores from within and dissolving sebum

Due to the lipophilicity, SA dissolves in sebum and penetrates deep into the pore channel — unlike AHA, which only act on the surface. It dissolves sebaceous plugs and desquamates cells inside the follicle, effectively removing open and closed comedones.

◈

Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect

SA suppresses the growth of C. acnes by lowering the pH of the environment and direct antibacterial action. It also blocks the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (structurally related to aspirin), reducing redness and swelling around inflammatory acne elements.

✧

Regulation of sebum production and pore tightening

Regular use normalizes the exfoliation process inside the pore, preventing the formation of new comedones. Reducing the sebum content in the pores visually tightens them. At a 2% concentration in a toner or serum, the effect is noticeable within 4–6 weeks.

Suitable for

oily skincombination skinacne-prone skinskin with comedones

Main Actions

✓ pore cleansing✓ BHA exfoliation✓ anti-inflammatory action

BHA vs AHA: when to choose what?

AHA (glycolic, lactic) — water-soluble, work on the surface of the skin, ideal for texture and pigmentation. BHA (SA) — lipophilic, penetrates the pores, ideal for acne and oily skin. When combined — do not apply at the same time: either in the morning AHA, in the evening BHA, or alternate days.

CategoryExfoliants

From our blog

AHA vs BHA: Which Exfoliant Should You Use?Best Skincare Ingredients for Oily Skin (And What to Avoid)Salicylic Acid: The Complete Guide to the Best BHA Exfoliant

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