Salicylic Acid: The BHA for Clear Pores
The BHA that Deep-Cleans Pores & Balances Oil
1. Name & Category
- INCI Name: Salicylic Acid
- Category: Beta hydroxy acid (BHA) – exfoliating, balancing, purifying
2. Background
Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble acid that comes naturally from willow bark. Unlike AHAs, it penetrates the pores and cleans them deeply, clearing built-up sebum and dead skin cells. It is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin and skin with a tendency to clogged pores.
It is used in treatments for acne, seborrhoeic dermatitis and keratosis, and it also has a soothing action, which makes it suitable even for more sensitive skin when used correctly.
3. Properties & Benefits
🔹 Exfoliation & clear pores: removes excess sebum, reducing blackheads and spots.
🔹 Oil control: balances sebum production, helping to prevent breakouts.
🔹 Fights inflammation & blemishes: calms inflammation and reduces redness.
🔹 Fades dark marks & discolouration: speeds up skin renewal and helps prevent post-blemish marks.
🔹 Smooth, even tone: leaves skin smoother and brighter.
4. How to Use
- Found in serums, creams, toners and spot treatments.
- Concentrations range from 0.5% to 2%, with 2% being the maximum allowed in cosmetics.
- Use 1–3 times a week; more tolerant skin can use it daily.
- Apply on clean skin, and always wear sunscreen the next day.
5. Ingredient Synergies
✅ Works beautifully with:
- Niacinamide – soothes the skin and calms irritation.
- Hyaluronic acid – keeps skin hydrated after exfoliation.
- Zinc (Zinc PCA) – balances oil even further and boosts the anti-inflammatory effect.
- Peptides & soothing extracts – keep skin comfortable and supple.
⚖️ Best used at a different time from:
- Other strong exfoliants (AHA/BHA/PHA) in high concentrations, to keep skin calm.
- Retinol – use them at different times of day for gentle, balanced exfoliation.
- Harsh cleansers or alcohol-based products – choose gentle formulas to keep skin hydrated.
📌 Discover products with salicylic acid for clear, balanced skin:
My Pure Place - Run for Puryness | Spot treatment that targets blemishes, balances oil and soothes irritated skin.