Back to Basics: Salicylic Acid

If you've ever dealt with acne, salicylic acid may be a familiar ingredient. But what exactly is it?

A form of BHA, beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid is oil-soluble unlike AHAs like glycolic and lactic acids. Because it is oil-soluble, it is able to penetrate skin at a deeper level and help unclog pores. Additionally, salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help red, inflamed pimples heal faster.

While salicylic acid is especially helpful for those with acne-prone skin, it is also a great ingredient for those that want to add a chemical exfoliator to their routine. Besides unclogging pores, salicylic acid also removes and loosen dead skin cells, leaving skin glowing.

Whether you're battling acne or just want glowing skin, salicylic acid can be found in a multitude of products that easily fits into your routine.

Toner

BENTON Aloe BHA Skin Toner $̶1̶9̶.̶0̶0̶  $11.99

With salicylic acid to exfoliate and aloe and snail mucin to soothe and moisturize, this is the perfect exfoliating toner to add to your routine. This thicker but not sticky toner helps balance your skin and nourishes your skin barrier while gently exfoliating.

Ampoule

ROVECTIN Clean LHA Blemish Ampoule $̶1̶5̶.̶0̶0̶  $9.99

Not exactly salicylic acid, this has capryloyl salicylic acid, a LHA and derivative of the familiar ingredient. Like the BHA, capryloyl salicylic acid is oil-soluble. However, a notable difference is that due to its larger molecular size, this penetrates skin slower and shallower. Though this LHA sounds similar to an AHA, studies have shown that a lower percentage of capryloyl salicylic acid has the same effect as a much greater percentage of AHA while also having the calming properties of salicylic acid.

Spot Treatment

NACIFIC Origin Red Salicylic Acid Spot Cream $̶1̶5̶.̶0̶0̶  $9.99

This fast absorbing spot treatment contains salicylic acid as the standard acne fighting ingredient. However, this cream also has skin barrier strengthening and brightening properties. Centella asiatica and DERMA-CLERA™, a patented soothing ingredient, help calm irritated skin while niacinamide and adenosine brighten and improve signs of red spots and scars.

Mask



NACIFIC Salicylic Acid Clarifying Mask Pack $̶2̶0̶.̶0̶0̶  $11.99

This bamboo cellulose sheet mask is soaked with beneficial ingredients to help repair skin. DERMA-CLERA™ helps soothe and strengthen skin barrier along with panthenol. Salicylic acid helps exfoliate and help remove dead skin cells, dirt, and sebum from pores.