Skip to content
Beta hydroxy acid (BHA)

Salicylic Acid

INCI: Salicylic Acid·Studied at 0.5–2%·Moderate evidence

An oil-soluble exfoliating acid that can get inside the pore lining, studied for the appearance of clearer, more refined-looking pores and a smoother surface.

Studied for

  • ·The appearance of clearer, more refined-looking pores
  • ·The look of a smoother, more even surface

How it’s thought to work

Oil-soluble, so it works inside oily pores as well as on the surface, and is studied for association with the appearance of fewer clogged-looking pores; it loosens surface cells at low pH.

Questions

Is a higher percentage of salicylic acid better?
Not usually. Most leave-on formulas sit at 0.5–2%, and going higher mainly raises the chance of dryness and irritation rather than doing more for the appearance of your pores.

Serums we’ve scored with Salicylic Acid

References