Everything you need to know about salicylic acid:
the anti-blemish active for clear, radiant skin
Nicknamed the “pore cleaner”, salicylic acid is the star active in anti-blemish K-Beauty routines. But what exactly is it, how do you use it, and what should you pair it with? We guide you step by step.
Definition
What is salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) found naturally in white willow bark, meadowsweet, and even blueberries and apricots. Used since antiquity for its anti-inflammatory properties — it’s the ancestor of aspirin! — it has been adopted by the cosmetics industry for its unique exfoliating power.
Unlike AHAs (such as glycolic acid), which work on the surface, salicylic acid stands out for being oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores and dissolve sebum from within.
Why use it
Its benefits for your skin
This versatile active is a real game-changer. Studies published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2018) confirm its effectiveness against mild to moderate acne, with visible results in 4 to 6 weeks.
The mechanism
How does it work on your skin?
Salicylic acid is oil-soluble: it seeps into pores clogged with sebum and works in 3 stages.
1. Penetration & exfoliation — It lowers the pH of the stratum corneum, dissolving the bonds between dead cells so they shed naturally, without mechanical scrubbing.
2. Sebum regulation — It clears away built-up excess oil, reducing shine and preventing future blockages.
3. Antibacterial action — It targets bacteria such as P. acnes by lowering the pH inside pores. Research shows a 224x reduction in Micrococcaceae and a 30x reduction in Propionibacterium with regular treatment.
“Salicylic acid is the only BHA able to penetrate the pore from the inside — that’s what makes it irreplaceable against blackheads.”
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2018Compatibility
What to pair it with
| Ingredient | Compatibility | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide | ✅ Yes | Soothes and strengthens the barrier — apply together or alternate |
| Hyaluronic acid | ✅ Yes | Hydrates after application to prevent dryness |
| Centella asiatica | ✅ Yes | Soothes post-exfoliation redness |
| Glycolic acid (AHA) | ⚠️ Alternate | BHA in the evening, AHA in the morning — not together if your skin is sensitive |
| Strong retinol | ❌ Pause | Wait 48h between the two to avoid irritation |
| Benzoyl peroxide | ❌ Pause | A 48h break is recommended |
| SPF50+ | ✅ Mandatory | Always in the morning — BHA increases photosensitivity |
How to use
How to add it to your routine
Recommended concentration: 0.5 to 2% in a serum, cream or cleanser. Anything higher is for professionals only.
Frequency: Start 2–3 times a week in the evening. If your skin tolerates it, move to daily use after 2 weeks.
Order of application: Gentle cleanse → BHA product → light moisturiser → SPF50+ in the morning.
Safety
Essential precautions
⚠️ Photosensitivity: Always use SPF50+ sun protection in the morning.
🧪 Patch test: Apply a small amount to your wrist before general use.
🤰 Pregnancy: Salicylic acid in large amounts is not recommended during pregnancy — consult your doctor. Opt for willow bark-based formulas.
⏸️ Overuse: Can disrupt the skin microbiome — moisturising after application is essential.
Our selection
Our salicylic acid products
At Haru & Bom, we select well-dosed, vegan, CPNP-notified formulas for gentle yet visible results.
- Salicylic acid (BHA) is oil-soluble — it penetrates pores where AHAs can’t reach.
- Visible results after 4 to 6 weeks of regular use.
- Start at 2–3 times a week in the evening, then increase gradually.
- Always follow with a moisturiser and an SPF50+ in the morning — essential on Reunion Island.
- Compatible with niacinamide and centella — avoid strong retinol without a 48h break.
- Choose concentrations between 0.5 and 2% for safe cosmetic use.
At Haru & Bom, we invite you to embrace this active with our natural, certified products — because beautiful skin is built with the right ingredients! Explore our BHA selection →
- Journal of Natural Products (2015) — Natural extraction of BHA
- Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2018) — Effectiveness against acne
- Dermatologic Surgery (2016) — Antibacterial action
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019) — Anti-inflammatory mechanism
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2021) — Combinations with niacinamide
