Active · PM · Exfoliate, Clear breakouts
Salicylic acid (BHA)
Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble exfoliant (a BHA) that works inside pores, so it helps clear blackheads and breakouts.
Salicylic acid (BHA) at a glance
- What it does
- Because it dissolves in oil, it reaches into pores where AHAs cannot. Betaine salicylate is a milder relative used in some Korean formulas.
- Who it suits
- Oily, combination and breakout-prone skin.
- Who should be careful
- Can dry or sting. Start every other day and use daily sunscreen. Avoid if you are allergic to aspirin.
- AM or PM
- Evening is easiest. Start 2 or 3 times a week.
- Don’t layer with
- Retinol and retinal: Not recommended in the same routine. Retinol and BHA in one routine can over-dry and sting. Use them on alternate nights.
- Glycolic and lactic acid (AHA): Best split AM and PM, or on different nights. Two exfoliants in one routine can be too much. Use them on different nights unless your skin is used to both.
- Vitamin C: Best split AM and PM, or on different nights. Use vitamin C in the morning and BHA at night.
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Products with salicylic acid (bha)
