Skin science article
Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum Versus The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) Serum
Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum Versus The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) Serum This acne serum is formulated around Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide to clear breakouts and refine the look of pores. This acne serum is formulated around Salicylic Acid
Cos De BAHA Salicylic Acid BHA 4% Serum Versus The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) Serum
This acne serum is formulated around Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide to clear breakouts and refine the look of pores.
This acne serum is formulated around Salicylic Acid and Zinc PCA to clear breakouts and refine the look of pores.
What's inside
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Propanediol
Salicylic Acid 4%
1,2-Hexanediol
Sodium Citrate
Polysorbate 20
Niacinamide
Rosa Damascena Extract
Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid 4%, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Citrate, Polysorbate 20, Niacinamide, Rosa Damascena Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose
Water
Betaine
Salicylic Acid
Sodium Hyaluronate
Zinc PCA
Phenoxyethanol
Maltodextrin
Sodium Hydroxide
Ethylhexylglycerin
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Water, Propanediol, Betaine, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Zinc PCA, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Reviews
Alternatives
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Hydroxyethylcellulose is used to improve the texture of products. It is created from a chemical reaction involving ethylene oxide and alkali-cellulose. Cellulose is a sugar found in plant cell walls and help give plants structure.
This ingredient helps stabilize products by preventing ingredients from separating. It can also help thicken the texture of a product.
This ingredient can also be found in pill medicines to help our bodies digest other ingredients.
Propanediol is an all-star ingredient. It softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin.
It’s often used to:
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use. It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a well-known ingredient for treating skin that struggles with acne and clogged pores. It exfoliates both the skin's surface and deep within the pores to help clear out buildup, control oil, and reduce inflammation.
Unlike AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to penetrate into pores which makes it especially effective for treating blackheads and preventing future breakouts.
Salicylic acid is also known for its soothing properties. It has a similar structure to aspirin and can calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a good option for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive.
Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.
It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing this ingredient into your routine.
While salicylic acid does not increase sun sensitivity, it’s still important to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.