bha

Paula’s Choice Clear Acne Regular Strength Exfoliating Treatment 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid), $41 for 118ml

1/5

With a salicylic acid concentration of 2%, this leave-on exfoliating treatment is suitable for daily use without any harshness or stripping skin of moisture. Saturate a cotton pad and sweep over entire face (yes, you can use this even around the eyes) as this weightless solution eliminates dead skin cells and purges clogged pores. Over time, you can expect skin to be less prone to shine, pores appear more refined and skin looks and feels smoother. Just remember to always use a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher if you’re using it in the day.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar (K+), $38.90 for 30ml

2/5

Formulated specifically to help control shine in combination to oily skin types, this purifying treatment gradually transforms skin’s surface as it clears our congested pores. Thanks to its unique ingredients including salicylic acid, it gently exfoliates skin surface while its ultra-fresh, non-greasy aqua-gel texture penetrates skin quickly to deliver hydration that lasts all day long. Skin is well-balanced, feels comfortable and stays matte.

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, $36 for 29m

3/5

With a potent acne-fighting blend of salicylic acid, resorcinol and sulfur, this spot treatment is ideal as an overnight solution to calm and reduce the appearance of blemishes. It also contains calamime to help counter redness and inflammation so it only dries out zits, not your skin.

Eucerin Pro ACNE Solution Correct & Cover Stick, $26 for 2.5g

4/5

If you’re ever stuck in the dilemma of wanting to mask your blemishes without smothering your skin with thick layers of makeup, this is your best bet. With a nifty pen-like format, it makes application on specific spots effortless. It also has a creamy formula that completely covers pimples and even contains salicylic acid to ensure that your pores don’t get clogged.

First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Anti-Breakout Charcoal Cleanser, $37 for 142g

5/5

Great for purifying oily and congested complexions, this cleanser contains Active Charcoal and 2% salicylic acid to draw out impurities, clear out pores and slough away dead skin cells. It is also enriched with vitamin E and yogurt extract to boost skin’s resilience for a clarified and refined complexion.