Description
2% salicylic acid pads from ZO Skin Health. The concentration of salicylic acid that makes the difference in acne—2%—in pad form, with two more acids in support.
What it does
2% salicylic acid is the concentration used in most studies of mild and moderate acne, and the one regulators recognise for that use. Below it, the effect on comedones drops considerably.
Mandelic acid is a large-molecule AHA derived from bitter almonds: it penetrates slowly, causes little irritation and has the particular advantage of being safer in higher phototypes, where glycolic acid can leave post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Here both work together on the mark a spot leaves as it heals.
The pads are made of plant viscose and the formula contains alcohol, which is what lifts the oil and also why you need to go carefully on dry skin.
Who it is for
Oily skin with spots and post-acne marks. Start with one application a day: the brand itself warns that it can be drying.
Key ingredients
- Salicylic acid 2% — the benchmark concentration for mild to moderate acne
- Mandelic acid — a large, gentle AHA, better tolerated in higher phototypes
- Glycolic acid — surface renewal and work on marks
- Witch hazel extract and a botanical blend — astringent and antioxidant
Details from ZO Skin Health’s Spanish portfolio. The full ingredient list (INCI) is the one printed on the pack, and that is the one that counts.
How to use it
On thoroughly cleansed skin, sweep one pad over the affected area. Start once a day and go up to two or three times only if your skin tolerates it.
Contains salicylic acid (BHA). If you notice dryness or peeling, space out the applications. Do not use it on damaged or irritated skin.
Contains alcohol in the formula, which is what lifts oil from the surface. On dry or sensitive skin it can feel tight: it is not the right format.
Never on the same night as a retinoid: alternate the nights. Together they do not add up, they irritate.
Size
60 pads.
Not sure whether it suits you? Ask us at your next consultation: the routine is adapted to your skin, not the other way round.
A study of your skin
Study your skin with this product in it. Eight questions and a study of your skin: we cross-check what you tell us against the ingredient list of every product and against the published evidence, and send you back the routine that suits your skin and your preferences, with this product in its step. If it is not right for you, we tell you and suggest an alternative.
Validated and supervised by a team of specialists in plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
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