Discover soothing and clarifying actives starting with S — featuring the gold-standard BHA for acne-prone skin.
The Pore-Clearing Powerhouse
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)
Oil Soluble
Acne, Blackheads, Oily Skin
Exfoliants, Cleansers, Spot Treatments
Highly Researched
Willow Bark / Synthetic
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark that excels at penetrating oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within. Unlike water-soluble AHAs that work on the surface, salicylic acid's oil solubility allows it to dissolve sebum plugs, unclog pores, and prevent blackheads and whiteheads. It also provides anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, making it the gold standard for treating acne, reducing breakouts, and refining skin texture—particularly for oily and acne-prone skin.
Penetrates and unclogs pores deeply
Prevents and treats acne and blackheads
Reduces inflammation and redness
Exfoliates and refines texture
Controls excess oil production
Minimizes pore appearance
Decades of research establish salicylic acid as the most effective OTC treatment for acne. Studies show 0.5-2% concentrations reduce inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions by 40-60% within 8-12 weeks. The FDA recognizes it as safe and effective for acne treatment. Research demonstrates its keratolytic, comedolytic, and anti-inflammatory properties make it uniquely suited for oily, acne-prone skin.
Salicylic acid is formulated at 0.5-2% in leave-on products and up to 3% in rinse-off cleansers. It requires pH 3-4 to remain effective (free acid form). Oil solubility allows deep pore penetration. Available in cleansers, toners, serums, and spot treatments. Can be combined with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and retinol but may increase dryness—use moisturizer and start slowly.
Did You Know?
Salicylic acid is the active ingredient in aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)—which is why it provides anti-inflammatory benefits for skin.
Salicylic acid is synthetically produced for cosmetics, though historically derived from willow bark. Synthetic production ensures purity, consistency, and sustainability. It's vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable.
The Weightless Hydrator
Emollient Oil
Oil Soluble
All Skin Types, Dehydration
Face Oils, Moisturizers, Serums
Evidence-Based
Olive, Sugarcane, Synthetic
Squalane is a hydrogenated, shelf-stable form of squalene—a lipid naturally produced by human skin that decreases with age. It's an exceptional emollient that mimics skin's natural oils, absorbing rapidly without greasiness or pore-clogging. Squalane locks in moisture, softens skin, and provides antioxidant protection while being universally compatible with all skin types—from dry to oily to acne-prone. Its biomimetic nature makes it one of the most effective and gentle hydrators available.
Lightweight, non-greasy hydration
Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)
Mimics skin's natural oils
Provides antioxidant protection
Suitable for all skin types
Enhances skin barrier function
Research shows squalane improves skin hydration by 37% and reduces transepidermal water loss. Studies demonstrate it enhances absorption of other actives, provides antioxidant benefits, and supports barrier repair. Its molecular structure—identical to human squalene—ensures exceptional biocompatibility and tolerability even for sensitive skin.
The Natural Moisture Magnet
Humectant / NMF Component
Water Soluble
Dehydration, Dry Skin
Hydrating Serums, Moisturizers
Evidence-Based
Derived from Amino Acids
Sodium PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) is a naturally occurring component of skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF)—the collection of compounds that keep the stratum corneum hydrated. It's an exceptional humectant that draws moisture from the environment into skin and holds it there, maintaining optimal hydration levels. Sodium PCA makes up 12% of the skin's NMF, making topical application biomimetic and highly effective for restoring and maintaining moisture balance.
Naturally present in skin's NMF
Powerful moisture-binding capacity
Improves skin hydration and softness
Non-sticky, lightweight texture
Well-tolerated by all skin types
Enhances skin barrier function
Research demonstrates sodium PCA is hygroscopic (attracts water) and maintains hydration even in low-humidity environments. Studies show it increases skin moisture by 45% and improves barrier function when combined with other NMF components. As a natural skin constituent, it's biocompatible and non-irritating, making it ideal for sensitive skin formulations.