What's inside
What's inside
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningAlcohol Denat.
AntimicrobialNiacinamide
SmoothingGlycerin
HumectantPropanediol
SolventLinalool
PerfumingGeraniol
PerfumingSodium Hydroxide
BufferingSalicylic Acid
MaskingAscorbyl Glucoside
AntioxidantLimonene
PerfumingHydroxypropyl Guar
Emulsion StabilisingHydroxyacetophenone
AntioxidantHydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid
BufferingCitrus Limon Fruit Extract
MaskingLactic Acid
BufferingPhytic Acid
Benzyl Salicylate
PerfumingBenzyl Alcohol
PerfumingPEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
EmulsifyingParfum
MaskingWater, Alcohol Denat., Niacinamide, Glycerin, Propanediol, Linalool, Geraniol, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Limonene, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Lactic Acid, Phytic Acid, Benzyl Salicylate, Benzyl Alcohol, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Parfum
Reviews
Alternatives
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a well-known ingredient for treating skin that struggles with acne and clogged pores. It exfoliates both the skin's surface and deep within the pores to help clear out buildup, control oil, and reduce inflammation.
Unlike AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to penetrate into pores which makes it especially effective for treating blackheads and preventing future breakouts.
Salicylic acid is also known for its soothing properties. It has a similar structure to aspirin and can calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a good option for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive.
Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.
It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing this ingredient into your routine.
While salicylic acid does not increase sun sensitivity, itβs still important to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.
Learn more about Salicylic Acid