It’s long been a buzzword in skincare, but how much do you actually know about salicylic acid?
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To get technical, it’s part of the Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) family. BHAs are oil-soluble, as opposed to water-soluble Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). While AHAs work well to exfoliate the skin’s surface, BHAs penetrate deeper into the skin, getting all up in your pores and dissolving all the nasty stuff for a deep clean.
Derived from the willow bark plant, salicylic acid is commonly hailed as the numero uno weapon against acne due to its effectiveness in targeting dead skin and excessive oil. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe redness, fade scarring and balance overall oil production.
Because of the potency of this wonder ingredient, there is the risk of overuse. To avoid any dryness or irritation, keep usage to a maximum of once a day. It’s also pertinent that when using any BHA or AHA treatments you use SPF daily as these ingredients can cause skin to become more sensitive to the sun.
Currently, the market is inundated with salicylic acid cleansers so we’ve done you a solid and rounded up the top 10 contenders that cater to various skin types.
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Skinceuticals
Best for mature skin
Specially formulated for mature skin prone to breakouts, this triple-action cleanser harnesses the power of salicylic, glycolic and LHA to smooth fine lines, brighten skin and decongest pores.
LHA Cleansing Gel, $58.86, Skinceuticals at AdoreBeauty
Murad
The triple threat
If you’re serious about exfoliation, this is the mother of all cleansers for you. Combining the powers of physical exfoliating agents and salicylic, lactic and glycolic acids, Murad’s much-loved cleanser combats impurities and dead skin on all fronts, leaving you polished and without a bump in sight.
AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, $62, Murad at Sephora
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Kiehl’s
The celeb fave
A brand synonymous with celebs (the Olsen twins and the Kardashian/Jenners, just to name a few), Kiehl’s is a go-to brand for all skin types. This herbal cleanser combines potent anti-bacterial salicylic acid with soothing ginger root extract and frankincense for the best of both worlds.
Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment, $44 at Kiehl’s
Neutrogena
The original
If Neutrogena wasn’t your first cleanser then you really missed out. Though many of us moved on to expand our horizons, this OG set a standard for cleansers. With its easy pump bottle, gel-to-foam consistency and budget-friendly price tag, this is a great introduction to the world of salicylic acid.
Visibly Clear Spot Proofing Daily Wash, $14.99, Neutrogena at Chemist Warehouse
Tata Harper
The natural option
Perhaps the sound of “acid” triggers thoughts of lethal corrosive substances that should not be anywhere near your face, or maybe you just prefer entirely natural formulas. Made with natural BHA from white willow bark, this luxurious yet hardworking pick is proof that the natural option does not mean sacrificing efficacy.
Regenerating Cleanser, $137, Tata Harper at NET-A-PORTER
The acid expert
Since this brand first hit the scene, they’ve come to be known as the experts in acid. Their award-winning formulas are designed to purify, exfoliate and calm the skin, banishing breakouts without stripping away natural oil levels.
Clear Skin Daily Face and Body Wash, $45, Alpha-H at Sephora
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Paula’s Choice
The no-frills option
Famous for her scientific, no-BS approach to skincare, it’s no wonder that Paula Begoun’s cleansers are inexpensive and fuss-free. A non-irritating gel texture, this option efficiently removes excess oil and pore-clogging debris keeping skin clean and happy.
Pore Normalising Cleanser, $20 at Paula’s Choice
Best for sensitive skin
Sensitive skin types do not need to sit on the sidelines of the acid game. Priori’s Anti-Irritant Complex in combination with Vitamins A, C and E soothes and hydrates the skin while a low dose of salicylic acid cleanses away dirt, oil and makeup residue.
LCA fx110 Gentle Cleanser, $55, Priory at AdoreBeauty
Edible Beauty
Best for dry skin
If you’re no stranger to dry, flaky skin, then we implore you to give Edible Beauty a try. Their Cleansing Milk not only effectively removes dead skin and environmental toxins, but ingredients like coconut oil actively work to soften and hydrate the skin. Another plus? It smells incredible.
No. 1 Belle Frais Cleansing Milk, $54, Edible Beauty at AdoreBeauty
Mario Badescu
Best for acne-prone skin
A highly-praised product in beauty circles, this simple cleanser works hard to tackle existing acne and prevent future breakouts. Containing aloe vera and chamomile, this formula soothes and restores inflamed skin.
Acne Facial Cleanser, $23, Mario Badescu at MECCA
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