The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) Serum Versus My iN.gredients Salicylic Acid Solution

The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) Serum Versus My iN.gredients Salicylic Acid Solution

This acne serum is formulated around Salicylic Acid and Zinc PCA to clear breakouts and refine the look of pores.

This acne serum is formulated around Salicylic Acid to clear breakouts and refine skin texture.

What's inside

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients Side-by-side

Water

Propanediol

Betaine

Salicylic Acid

Sodium Hyaluronate

Zinc PCA

Phenoxyethanol

Hydroxyethylcellulose

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

Glycerin

Hamamelis Virginiana Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract

Salicylic Acid 2%

Sclerotium Gum

Dextrin

Polydextrose

1,2-Hexanediol

Niacinamide 0.4%

Amylopectin

Centella Asiatica Extract

Caprylyl Glycol

Illicium Verum Fruit Extract

Water, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract, Salicylic Acid 2%, Propanediol, Sclerotium Gum, Dextrin, Polydextrose, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide 0.4%, Amylopectin, Sodium Hydroxide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Illicium Verum Fruit Extract

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Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

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.

Sodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.

In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.

Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.

"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Remember to stay hydrated!

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