Salicylic Acid (BHA)
INCI: Salicylic Acid
Korean: 살리실산
exfoliating, acne-fighting, pore-clearing
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve sebum. Exfoliates the skin surface and inside pores, making it highly effective for blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. Anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness around blemishes.
Addresses These Concerns
Effectiveness by Skin Type
Drawing on K-beauty clinical research and community consensus, Salicylic Acid (BHA) shows the highest effectiveness for oily skin targeting blackheads (88% positive) and oily skin targeting acne (86% positive). It also benefits combination skin for acne, sensitive skin for acne.
For blackheads · 55 reports
For acne · 65 reports
For acne · 50 reports
For acne · 50 reports
Known Interactions
Combining retinol and salicylic acid (BHA) in the same routine can lead to over-exfoliation, especially for sensitive or dry skin types. Salicylic acid's low pH may also reduce retinol's effectiveness. The combination is more tolerable than retinol + AHA but still warrants caution.
Recommendation: Alternate use: apply salicylic acid in the AM (if needed) and retinol PM, or use on different nights. If your skin is not sensitive, some users tolerate layering with a buffer moisturizer in between. Monitor for irritation.
K-Beauty Products with Salicylic Acid (BHA)
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Clean It Zero Pore Clarifying Cleansing Balm
Banila Co
Red Acne Succinic Acid Peel
Medicube
For Men Perfect Foam Cleanser
Acnes
Heartleaf Double Cleansing Set
Anua
Zinc Teca Trouble Serum
Bringgreen
Pore Purifying Salicylic Acid Foaming Cleanser 120g Double Set
Jumiso
Green Tea + LHA Deep Pore Rice Cake Cleanser
Arencia
Green Tea LHA Deep Pore Rice Cake Cleanser
Arencia
Pine Calming Cica Cleanser Double Pack
Round Lab
White Rice Bright Cleansing Foam
Shingmulnara
pH Cleansing Red Blemish Clear Soothing Foam Duo Set
Dr.G
Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
COSRX
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