Having earned quite a reputation in the skincare industry for its powerful breakout-banishing properties, salicylic acid is a must-have ingredient for anyone with oily, acne-prone or even combination skin. It’s a hard-working BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that exfoliates, smoothes and clears your complexion of any dead skin cells and built-up debris. The results? Fewer breakouts, a softer complexion and minimised pores.
You can use it in a cleanser (we love CeraVe’s Blemish Control Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid & Niacinamide for Blemish-Prone Skin), to sweep away the day’s oils and grime. Grab a spot treatment, such as the La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.I. Breakout Corrector, for a potent breakout-clearing solution. And even apply a serum formula like The INKEY List’s C-50 Serum to buff your skin overnight.
Because it’s so powerful, salicylic acid can cause dryness and irritation if overused, so it’s best to use it 2–3 times a week to start with and then build up your skin’s tolerance. And the same applies to those that have sensitive skin. But don’t be put off, salicylic acid is a great addition to your skincare regimen, and a must-have for those with oily, breakout-prone complexions.
