What is it?

Salicylic acid, the quintessential beta-hydroxy acid, is your winning weapon if you suffer from acne, open or closed comedones, inflammatory lesions, dark spots, enlarged pores and the first signs of aging. In cosmetics, the term beta-hydroxy acid specifically refers to salicylic acid which, unlike alpha-hydroxy acids, is liposoluble and therefore can penetrate pores, dissolve sebum and clear hair follicles of the debris clogging them.

What is this for?

Salicylic acid, the beta-hydroxy acid par excellence, has numerous properties: 

Exfoliant: first and foremost, it has a keratolytic action that promotes cellular renewal, combating the formation of skin discolorations, improving skin texture, enhancing radiance, and minimizing the first signs of aging.

Prevents and fights the formation of comedones: it penetrates the pore and dissolves the sebum that clogs the hair follicle.

Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial: effective for treating acne.

How to use them

The rule for using BHAs (as well as AHAs) is to go gradually: start with a maximum of three times a week, then only increase usage if your skin tolerates it and responds well. And don’t overdo it with exfoliating products!! Choose only one for your skincare routine to avoid damage.

Finally, keep in mind that the main contraindication to using cosmetics containing salicylic acid is a known allergy to salicylates (including acetylsalicylic acid). If you are allergic to aspirin, do not use these products!

Hydroxy Acids Compared

AHA vs BHA

AHAs are short-chain hydroxy acids that act on the outermost layer of the skin, stimulating cell turnover and improving skin elasticity. Thanks to their properties, AHAs are often used to treat dry, sun-damaged or skin with dark spots.

BHAs , on the other hand, are long-chain hydroxy acids that act deeply, penetrating pores and removing excess sebum and dead skin cells. Thanks to the benefits they provide, BHAs (mainly salicylic acid) are used to treat oily, acne-prone or enlarged pore skin.

If a cosmetic product is formulated with both of these types of acids, it will deliver a deeper, more beneficial exfoliation for the skin. Always remember to follow the correct product application instructions!

Products with Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid can be an ingredient in various cosmetics: facial creams, serums, toners, cleansers. There are also salicylic acid chemical peels: in this case, it’s important to distinguish between products intended for "home use" — that is, those that can be used at home — and in-office professional products that can only and exclusively be used by specialized medical personnel.

  • Acne Fighter Kit

    Acne Fighter Kit

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    Quickly eliminate pimples with our Acne Fighter Kit. It contains Anti-Blemish Patches and Anti-Blemish Gel for clean, blemish-free skin.

    Function Cleanser
    Ingredients Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Pyruvic Acid
    Use Every day
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  • Photo of product packaging and label: Purifying body emulsion

    Purifying Body Emulsion

    Body cream that hydrates and smooths, fighting acne, impurities and uneven skin texture.

    Function Polishing agent, Cleanser, Moisturizer
    Ingredients Salicylic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Niacinamide (+)
    Use Every day
  • Photo of product packaging and label: Anti-Impurity Gel

    Anti-Impurity Gel

    L'applicazione locale attenua l'infiammazione del brufolo e migliora la pelle.

    Function Cleanser
    Ingredients Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Pyruvic Acid (+)
    Use Every day
  • Photo of product packaging and label: Skin Perfector

    Skin Perfector

    Exfoliating facial toner, formulated with 2% salicylic acid at pH=4. Brightens and smoothes, leaving skin looking more even.

    Function Polishing agent, Schiarente, Cleanser
    Ingredients Salicylic Acid
    Use Also every day (based on skin type and needs)
    Best Seller