Skincare glossary
Salicylic acid
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that gets into oil and pores, then exfoliates the surface too.
- Who it suits
- Oily, congested or blemish-prone skin.
Why is salicylic acid used?
If a product targets congestion, blackheads or breakouts, this is usually doing the heavy lifting.
Worth knowing
Overusing it leaves skin dry and irritated rather than clearer. Less is more.
Products with salicylic acid
2% BHA exfoliantPaula's Choice
£££Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner
Leave-on BHA exfoliant for congestion
Exfoliating cleanserMedik8
££Surface Radiance Cleanse
Exfoliating cleanser for congested skin
AHA/BHA cleanserMurad
£££AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Exfoliating cleanser for texture and congestion
Targeted spot treatmentMedik8
££Blemish SOS Rapid Action Target Gel
A fast-drying spot treatment with 2% salicylic acid designed to target individual blemishes and visible redness
2% BHA exfoliantPaula's Choice
££Clear Regular Strength 2% BHA Exfoliant
Leave-on BHA treatment for breakouts and blackheads
2% BHA tonicMedik8
££Press & Clear 2% BHA Tonic
A leave-on 2% BHA toner designed to decongest pores and improve the appearance of texture without over-drying
