Salicylic acid is a lipid-soluble beta hydroxy acid (BHA), meaning it can dissolve in oils and travel through the skin’s natural sebum to reach deep inside pores. Once there, it loosens the bonds between dead skin cells, helping to clear congestion, refine texture, and calm inflammation.
In REMAKE’s AHA + BHA Liquid Exfoliator, salicylic acid is paired with lactic acid for both deep and surface exfoliation. The formula is balanced with hydration to minimise dryness and is packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) bottles and compostable sugarcane pulp boxes, aligning with our sustainability principles.
At a Glance: Salicylic Acid Benefits
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Penetrates pores to dissolve congestion and reduce breakouts
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Smooths uneven texture and helps fade post-acne marks
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Calms redness and inflammation
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Suitable for oily, combination, and congestion-prone skin
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Works year-round in Australian climates when paired with SPF
1. What is Salicylic Acid and How Does it Work?
Salicylic acid is lipid-soluble, allowing it to pass through sebum and reach deep into the pore lining. Once inside, it disrupts desmosomes—the protein bonds that hold skin cells together—so dead cells shed more effectively.
Key points:
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Mechanism: Desmolytic, loosens bonds between cells
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Anti-inflammatory: Naturally derived from willow bark, reduces redness
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Comedolytic: Prevents microcomedone formation
For further clinical detail, see the National Library of Medicine.
2. Why Formulation and pH Matter
Not all salicylic acid products deliver the same results.
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Concentration: 1–2% is ideal for daily or alternate-day use at home
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pH: Around pH 3 is optimal for balancing efficacy and comfort (DermNet NZ)
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Synergy: Lactic acid in our formula hydrates and refines surface texture, reducing dryness risk
Our AHA + BHA Liquid Exfoliator is designed to give results without the tightness or flaking that harsher formulas can cause.
3. Salicylic Acid in the Australian Climate
Australia’s varied climate changes how skin responds to active ingredients:
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Humid summers: More sweat and oil, higher risk of clogged pores, BHAs help keep skin clear
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Dry winters: Pair with humectants to reduce dehydration risk
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High UV index: Safe year-round with SPF, supports clearer, calmer skin even in sunny conditions
4. Which Skin Types Benefit Most?
| Skin Type | Benefits | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Oily/Acne-Prone | Reduces excess oil, clears breakouts | 3–5 nights/week |
| Combination | Balances T-zone oil while smoothing dry areas | 2–3 nights/week |
| Dry | Improves texture and product absorption | 1–2 nights/week |
| Sensitive | Calms redness while targeting congestion | Every 3rd night |
5. Myths and Misconceptions
Myth 1: You can’t use acids in summer
Truth: With SPF, salicylic acid is safe year-round and may even reduce UV-triggered inflammation (Healthline).
Myth 2: Salicylic acid always dries skin
Truth: Balanced with humectants like lactic acid or hyaluronic acid, it can maintain hydration.
Myth 3: It’s only for acne
Truth: Also refines texture, brightens, and minimises enlarged pores.
6. How to Use Salicylic Acid in Your Routine
Evening Routine
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Cleanse with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser
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Apply AHA + BHA Liquid Exfoliator to clean, dry skin
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Wait 1–2 minutes
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Follow with Hyaluronic Acid Serum or moisturiser
Morning Routine (alternate days)
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Apply after cleansing on days without other strong actives
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Always finish with SPF 50+
7. Pairing Salicylic Acid with Other Actives
Pairs well with:
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Hyaluronic acid
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Niacinamide
Alternate with:
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Retinoids
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Glycolic acid
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High-strength vitamin C
See our How to Layer Acids for more.
8. Seasonal Usage Guide
| Season | Frequency | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 3–4 nights | Pair with lightweight hydration |
| Winter | 2–3 nights | Follow with richer moisturiser |
| All year | Adjust use | Monitor barrier health |
9. Sustainability with REMAKE
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100% PCR bottles
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Compostable sugarcane pulp boxes
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Carbon-neutral shipping
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Circular economy design for less waste
10. Expert FAQ
Q: Can I use it after professional treatments?
A: Wait 5–7 days after peels, laser, or microneedling.
Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?
A: Low-strength topical salicylic acid is often considered safe but check with your healthcare provider (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists).
Q: Will it make my skin photosensitive?
A: BHAs don’t directly increase UV sensitivity, but SPF is essential.
Q: Does packaging affect potency?
A: Yes, PCR bottles reduce light and air exposure, preserving acid stability.