If you have oily skin, the frustration is often less about one dramatic breakout and more about the cycle of pores constantly filling back up — blackheads around the nose, whiteheads and little closed bumps, visible pores and skin that never quite feels clear.

That is why this formula combines Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide instead of asking one active to do everything. Salicylic Acid is oil-soluble, so it can work within congested pores to loosen the mixture of oil and dead skin that forms blackheads and whiteheads. 5% Niacinamide complements that by helping regulate excess oil and improve the appearance of pores — particularly useful when oiliness and congestion keep occurring together.

The Salicylic Acid is incorporated into an encapsulated delivery system, while 5% Panthenol, Glycerin and a xylitol-based hydration complex add hydration and barrier support. The result is a very lightweight, water-based treatment designed for oily skin that wants effective pore care without adding another rich or heavy layer.

And importantly, the 0.5% and 1% options are not meant to compete in a “higher percentage = better product” race. They let you adjust Salicylic Acid exposure according to your skin while keeping the same overall job: helping oily, congestion-prone pores stay clearer over time.

Apply 2–3 drops to clean, completely dry skin at night, after cleansing and before moisturiser.

Start 2–3 nights per week and increase frequency only if your skin is tolerating it comfortably. To increase tolerability you can absolutely also apply this after your moisturiser instead of applying it before. 

A great complement to this product is our Azelaic Acid Serum. We wouldn’t recommend starting both together but if you’ve been using this for a few weeks and your skin has built tolerance, the Azelaic Acid Serum used on alternate nights with this can really boost your results. 

Important:

• Do not use in the same routine as other exfoliating acids, including glycolic acid toners or other Salicylic Acid leave-ons.
• If you're also using a retinoid, alternate nights when starting rather than stacking them together.
• Reduce frequency if you develop persistent dryness, stinging or peeling.
• Use SPF every morning while using exfoliating treatments.

Encapsulated Salicylic Acid — 0.5% or 1%
An oil-soluble BHA that helps loosen the buildup of oil and dead skin inside pores, making it particularly useful for blackheads, whiteheads, closed comedones and recurring congestion.

The Salicylic Acid is incorporated into an encapsulated delivery system rather than simply added as a conventional free acid.

5% Niacinamide
Helps regulate excess oil, improve the appearance of visible pores and support the skin barrier.

Its combination with Salicylic Acid is especially useful for oily skin where oiliness and clogged pores tend to occur together.

5% Panthenol
Also known as Pro-Vitamin B5, Panthenol supports hydration, barrier function and skin comfort.

Its high level in the formula helps balance a serum that is still, fundamentally, an exfoliating acne treatment.

Xylitol Hydration Complex
A combination of Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol and Xylitol that supports hydration and helps reduce the tight, dehydrated-feeling, oily skin can sometimes develop alongside active-heavy routines.

Aqua, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Dextrin, Polydextrose, Amylopectin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol