Active ingredient
INCISalicylic Acid
Last reviewed by BIOSAR Scientific Team, PharmD, Cosmetic Chemistry, Pharmacy practice on .
Salicylic acid is a lipid-soluble beta-hydroxy acid used in skincare to unclog pores, refine the appearance of comedones, and gently exfoliate. Its lipophilicity lets it penetrate the sebum-rich follicular environment and dissolve corneocyte adhesions inside the pore. Effective at 0.5% to 2% in leave-on cosmetic formulations. Pairs with niacinamide. Layer carefully with retinol or benzoyl peroxide — alternate routine days to limit irritation.
ACOG and Mother to Baby consider low-percentage topical salicylic acid (≤2%) on limited areas acceptable during pregnancy and lactation. High-percentage chemical peels and oral salicylates are avoided throughout the perinatal period.
Beta-hydroxy acid. Oil-soluble exfoliant used inside the pore to help remove sebum and dead keratinocytes. Standard pharmacy active for blemish-prone skin. Pregnancy use: topical Salicylic Acid at low cosmetic concentrations is considered acceptable during pregnancy when applied to limited areas and without occlusion. Consult your doctor for your specific situation.
These ingredients work well in a routine but are best applied at different times of day or on alternating days to limit irritation.
From the BIOSAR catalog