If you deal with blackheads, congestion or oily areas, salicylic acid is the BHA worth understanding.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). Because it's oil-soluble, it can get inside the pore and clear the mix of oil and dead skin that leads to congestion and blackheads.
Who it's for
Oily, combination and blemish-prone skin tends to benefit most. If your skin is very dry or reactive, start slowly and patch test first.
How to use it
- Start 2–3 times a week, not daily, and build up.
- Always follow with moisturiser and daily SPF — exfoliating acids increase sun sensitivity.
- Don't pile it on top of other strong actives in the same routine.
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Written by
The AURA Team