What is salicylic acid and how does it work?

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), naturally derived from willow bark. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which work on the skin’s surface, salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate deeper into the pores.

Once inside the pores, it gently exfoliates by dissolving the bonds between these dead cells, encouraging them to shed naturally. This process helps to unclog pore build-up, helping to reduce the appearance and recurrence of blemishes and refine skin’s texture.

Additionally, salicylic acid supports skin’s overall balance. These deep-cleansing properties make it a popular choice for those with oily or blemish-prone skin.

When used as part of your skincare regime, salicylic acid’s mild-yet-effective exfoliating qualities can help unlock a smoother, clearer-looking complexion, without leaving the skin feeling stripped.

The top benefits of using salicylic acid in your skincare routine

Salicylic acid offers a wide range of benefits, particularly for oilier skin types and those prone to blemishes. We’ve rounded up some of the top reasons below:

• Supports a reduction in the appearance of blemishes

By helping to clear out impurities, dead cell build-up and excess oil from pores, salicylic acid supports a reduction in the appearance of blackheads, whiteheads and bumpy skin.

• Gently exfoliates

Salicylic acid acts as a mild exfoliant, helping to slough away dead skin cells and reveal fresher skin beneath. This helps to smooth the appearance of uneven texture and brighten the complexion.

• Reduces excess oil

When it comes to oilier skin, salicylic acid helps to decrease unwanted shine by removing excess sebum. For more information, recommendations and our tips for getting the most out of your routine, take a look at our guide on how to take care of oily skin

• Unclogs pores

Salicylic acid’s ability to penetrate pores makes it effective at clearing congestion. In keeping pores clear, it supports the skin in maintaining a more refined texture.

Other natural alternatives to salicylic acid for clear, healthy-looking skin

While salicylic acid is a good starting point for exfoliation and oil control, there are other natural alternatives that can provide similar benefits. These ingredients support clear, glowing skin while being gentle and suitable for even sensitive skin types.

Witch hazel

You can find this ingredient in our Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion, which, with its blend of hydrating aloe vera and cooling cornflower extract, revitalises tired-feeling eyes.

Green clay

This mineral-rich, oil-absorbing clay helps to draw out impurities, making it ideal for those with combination or oily skin. Purifying and mattifying, our Deep Cleansing Mask harnesses the purifying potential of green clay to help leave the skin feeling balanced.

Jojoba beads

Formed from solidified jojoba oils, these beads offer a mild form of physical exfoliation to help gently yet effectively lift away dead skin cells. Our Gentle Face Exfoliator blends these miniature marvels with moisturising cocoa butter to buff away build-up. The result? smoother looking skin P– and renewed radiance.

Take the award-winning Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser: which is infused with cocoa butter and instantly hydrates the skin to instantly hydrate the skin. Its bio-fusion formula combines nature-inspired ingredients to transform the way skin looks and feels.

It's no secret that skincare is all about consistency. By building regular cleansing, toning and moisturising into your daily routine – whether you choose to include salicylic acid or opt for other natural alternatives – you’ll be well on your way to achieving a radiant complexion.