Salicylic Acid Serum | BHA Serum (prev. Salicylic Acid Emulsion)

• Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid is a chemical exfoliant renowned for its ability to promote the shedding of dead skin cells. Beyond exfoliation, salicylic acid also serves as a formidable opponent against fungal acne, and acne, which includes blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Unlike AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, salicylic acid's oil solubility enables it to penetrate deep into your pores and unclog them. It also has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, and is extremely well researched, safe, effective, and well-tolerated by most individuals, making it especially exceptional for acne.

• Urea: The upper layers of the our contain a mix of substances that are essential for keeping the skin hydrated. These substances, which include urea, are collectively known as the skin’s Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF) and are critical to the normal functioning of the skin. Studies have shown that urea, when topically applied, effectively helps mitigate dryness and also helps in the absorption of active ingredients in formulations through the skin.

• Panthenol: Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 that helps hydrate the skin, strengthens the skin barrier and supports the skin’s healing process.

• Colloidal Oats: Oats have been used as a topical treatment for a variety of skin conditions, including dry skin, rashes, and eczema, for centuries. Studies have found that oat extract helps improve the skin’s barrier function and also helps the skin recover from damage. Oat extract is also anti-inflammatory and results in clinical improvements in skin dryness, roughness and itching. Phenols in oat extract act as antioxidants, while the high concentration of starch and beta-glucan give it the ability to hold on to water, thereby hydrating the skin. 

Aqua, capric/caprylic triglycerides, glycolic acid, cetylstearyl alcohol, ceteareth-20, dimethicone, salicylic acid, urea, zinc oxide, avena sativa kernel extract, panthenol, allantoin, xanthan gum, sodium benzoate, phenoxyethanol

Salicylic acid a.k.a. BHA is a chemical derived from the bark of the willow tree that is used in skincare for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. Unlike AHAs (a group of acids that includes glycolic and lactic acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This property allows it to penetrate into the skin’s pores where it exfoliates the pore lining and dissolves clogs. Additionally, salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Collectively these unique characteristics make salicylic acid especially beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types. In fact, when it comes to acne, salicylic acid is actually our favorite ingredient!

Salicylic acid serum is designed to manage several skin concerns effectively. It:

• Clears clogged pores by penetrating deeply to remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
• Prevents the formation of acne by keeping the pores clear.
• Reduces inflammation and redness, making it beneficial for those with acne-prone skin.
• Enhances skin texture by promoting the exfoliation of the skin’s surface, leading to softer and smoother skin.

Salicylic acid serum can typically be used daily, but it is essential to start slowly and monitor how your skin reacts. Begin by using it every other day or a few times a week to see how your skin tolerates it. If you experience any irritation or dryness, reduce the frequency of use. Over time, you can gradually increase the frequency of application as your skin becomes accustomed to the product. Always remember to follow up with moisturizer and sunscreen.

Salicylic acid does not cause skin darkening. In fact, by promoting the removal of dead skin cells, it can help in reducing the appearance of dark spots. However, it can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, which could potentially lead to sun-induced skin darkening. Therefore, it is important to apply sunscreen daily when using products containing salicylic acid.

Salicylic acid targets acne through multiple mechanisms, making it highly effective for managing and preventing breakouts. As a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), its oil-soluble properties allow it to penetrate deeply into the pores of the skin. This deep penetration is crucial because it enables salicylic acid to dissolve the buildup of sebum (oil) and dead skin cells that typically clog pores and lead to acne formations such as blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.

Once inside the pores, salicylic acid works to normalize the process of skin cell shedding. This prevents the cells from clumping together and blocking the pore, which is a primary cause of acne. By ensuring that skin cells shed appropriately, it helps keep the pores clear of blockages.

Additionally, salicylic acid's anti-inflammatory qualities play a significant role in acne management. Acne often leads to inflammation, which can cause the affected areas to become red, swollen, and painful. Salicylic acid helps reduce this inflammation, soothing the skin and making acne lesions less visible and uncomfortable.

Its action doesn't just stop with immediate acne relief; by consistently keeping the pores clear, salicylic acid also works preventatively, reducing the likelihood of future breakouts. This multi-faceted approach—unclogging pores, promoting correct skin cell shedding, and reducing inflammation—makes salicylic acid a powerful ingredient for treating and preventing acne, leading to clearer, healthier-looking skin over time.

Salicylic acid serum is suitable for most skin types, particularly for oily and acne-prone skin, due to its ability to unclog pores and reduce acne. However, individuals with very dry or sensitive skin might need to use it with caution. For these skin types, using the serum less frequently or selecting a product with a lower concentration of salicylic acid may be advisable. Performing a patch test before regular use is recommended to ensure skin compatibility. If you have any concerns or need help incorporating salicylic acid into your skincare routine, you can reach out to us over WhatsApp for a free skin consultation.

When using salicylic acid serum, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly if they have sensitive skin. Common side effects include dryness, redness, and peeling. These are typically mild and can often be managed by adjusting the frequency of use or by incorporating a moisturizer into your skincare routine. It's important to start with a lower concentration of salicylic acid if you're new to it and to use the product as directed.

Yes, salicylic acid serum can be used with other skincare products, but with caution. It is advisable not to use it simultaneously with other strong active ingredients like retinoids or high concentrations of vitamin C, as this can lead to increased irritation. It can be beneficial to use hydrating and soothing products, such as those containing ceramides, panthenol or niacinamide, to counteract potential dryness or irritation from salicylic acid.

The time it takes to see results from using a salicylic acid serum can vary depending on the individual's skin type and the specific skin concerns being addressed. Generally, some improvement may be noticeable within a few weeks of consistent use, with more significant results often visible after 4 to 6 weeks. It's important to use the serum consistently and to give it time to work, as skin renewal and clearing of acne can take several weeks.

Yes, it is necessary to wear sunscreen when using salicylic acid serum. Salicylic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn and sun damage. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days or when indoors, helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays. This is especially important when using any skincare product that exfoliates the skin or increases its sensitivity to the sun.