BEAUTY
Everything you need to know about salicylic acid – the anti-blemish active
A purifying and exfoliating active, salicylic acid is best known for targeting blemishes. However, it’s also a go-to ingredient for gently refining the skin and revealing a clearer, more luminous complexion. Effective on every level, let’s take a closer look at this all-round, powerful skincare ally…
What are the benefits of salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is a multi-action active widely used in skincare for its ability to visibly improve the appearance of blemish-prone skin, thanks to its oil-controlling, regenerating and antiseptic properties.
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To promote a brighter complexion: thanks to its keratolytic (exfoliating) action, salicylic acid helps remove dead skin cells from the surface (which dull the skin), unclog pores and encourage cell renewal, revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. By helping to clear the build-up of melanin at the surface of the skin, it also helps reduce the appearance of dark spots.
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To target blackheads: thanks to its sebum-regulating properties, salicylic acid helps to decongest pores and prevent the formation of blackheads.
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To target blemishes: salicylic acid helps limit the development and proliferation of acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation and breakouts.
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To target signs of ageing: by stimulating cell renewal, salicylic acid helps smooth skin texture and soften the appearance of fine lines.
Suitable even for drier skin types – thanks to its gentle action and soothing properties – salicylic acid helps to calm inflammation by inhibiting the synthesis of the molecules responsible for it.
Please note: while there has been some controversy surrounding salicylic acid, the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has confirmed that it poses no risk when used in accordance with regulatory guidelines. Under EU regulations, facial skincare products must not exceed a concentration of 2% salicylic acid.
Staple skincare enriched with salicylic acid
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Oh My Cream Skincare Anti-Blemish Serum: a soothing, purifying serum – powered by skincare heroes such as niacinamide, zinc, salicylic acid, oat extract and aloe vera – to target the five most common types of blemishes, leaving skin clear, balanced and comforted.
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Oh My Cream Skincare Anti-Blemish Solution: an SOS treatment designed for direct, topical application to dry out, soothe and visibly reduce blemishes, and help minimise post-blemish marks.
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Verso Skincare Verso Deep Cleanse: an exfoliating, foaming cleanser that calms problem-prone skin and helps to tackle blemishes at the source.
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Odacité Clean-ical Clarifying Serum: this clarifying serum combines salicylic acid with a high-performance blend of active ingredients for maximum efficacy in helping to reduce blemishes and tighten the appearance of pores.
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Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Anti-Blemish Serum: a gentle yet effective serum infused with retinol and salicylic acid, ideal for helping fade post-blemish marks.
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Odacité Jojoba Pearls Daily Hydra Exfoliant: powered by a unique exfoliating complex of jojoba beads, fruit enzymes and salicylic acid, this gentle exfoliator leaves skin feeling fresh and refined, all while respecting the skin’s lipid balance and barrier integrity.
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