Q: What is salicylic acid and how does it treat acne?
A: Salicylic Acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate sebum-filled pores. It works by: (1) Dissolving the "glue" holding dead skin cells together (exfoliation), (2) Penetrating pores to clear oil and debris, (3) Reducing inflammation, (4) Fighting acne-causing bacteria. At 2%, it's clinically effective for acne treatment.
Q: Is 2% salicylic acid safe for daily use?
A: Yes! 2% is the gold standard for facial acne treatment—strong enough for results, gentle enough for daily use. Our formula includes soothing ingredients (Neem, Centella, Chamomile, Hyaluronic Acid) to prevent irritation, making twice-daily use safe for most people.
Q: Will salicylic acid dry out my skin?
A: Not with Clarity's formula. We include 2% Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and Propanediol specifically to maintain hydration. The soothing botanical complex further protects your barrier. However, always follow with moisturizer and SPF.
Q: How is this different from salicylic acid cleanser?
A: Leave-on serums are significantly more effective than wash-off cleansers. Cleansers have 30-60 second contact time; serums work for hours. This extended contact allows deeper penetration and better results. Clarity is a treatment product, not just cleansing.
Q: Can I use salicylic acid if I have sensitive skin?
A: Start cautiously. Begin with once-daily application (evening only) and gradually increase frequency as tolerance builds. The high concentration of soothing ingredients (Centella, Chamomile, Neem, Green Tea) makes Clarity gentler than most SA serums. Patch test if very reactive.
Q: How does salicylic acid compare to benzoyl peroxide?
A: Both treat acne but differently:
- Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates, unclogs pores, anti-inflammatory, prevents new acne
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills bacteria, harsh, can bleach fabric, more drying Many prefer SA for being gentler, non-bleaching, and addressing root cause (clogged pores) rather than just killing bacteria.
About Neem & Ayurvedic Ingredients
Q: Why such a high concentration of Neem (5%)?
A: Neem is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic acne treatment, but most products use insufficient amounts. At 5%, Clarity provides clinically meaningful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. This concentration delivers the purifying power Neem is famous for while remaining non-irritating when combined with our soothing complex.
Q: What makes Neem effective for acne?
A: Neem contains:
- Nimbidin & Nimbin: Anti-inflammatory compounds
- Antibacterial agents: Fight C. acnes bacteria
- Sebum regulators: Control excess oil
- Antioxidants: Protect and heal
- Fatty acids: Support barrier function It's been used for 4000+ years in Ayurveda and modern studies validate its efficacy.
Q: Will Neem darken my skin?
A: No, this is a myth. Pure Neem extract doesn't cause darkening. In fact, combined with Vitamin E and other brightening botanicals in Clarity, it helps prevent post-acne hyperpigmentation.
Q: Does Neem have a smell?
A: Pure Neem has an earthy scent, but our natural botanical fragrance (Tea Tree or Lavender) masks it beautifully. The final product has a pleasant, therapeutic aroma.
Fermented Ingredients
Q: What are fermented ingredients and why use them?
A: Fermentation uses beneficial bacteria (like Lactobacillus) to break down botanical ingredients into smaller molecules. Benefits include:
- 3-4x better skin penetration
- Enhanced bioavailability and efficacy
- Probiotic benefits for skin microbiome
- Production of beneficial postbiotics
- Gentle yet powerful results
Q: What is Lactobacillus/Pear Juice Ferment?
A: This is pear juice fermented with Lactobacillus bacteria (same family as yogurt probiotics). The fermentation creates:
- Smaller molecules that penetrate deeper
- Beneficial acids and enzymes
- Microbiome-balancing effects
- Enhanced brightening and anti-inflammatory properties It's K-Beauty fermentation science at its finest.
Q: What is Houttuynia Cordata?
A: A Korean skincare favorite botanical with:
- Powerful anti-inflammatory properties
- Antibacterial action against acne
- Sebum regulation
- Antioxidant protection
- Excellent for sensitive, acne-prone skin Often called "fish mint" in Asia, it's becoming increasingly popular in advanced skincare.
Formula & Usage
Q: What is the texture like?
A: Lightweight, fast-absorbing serum that's neither too watery nor too thick. It has a silky feel, layers beautifully under moisturizer, absorbs within 1-2 minutes, and leaves no sticky residue or pilling.
Q: How do I use Clarity Serum in my routine?
A: AM: Cleanser → Clarity Serum → Moisturizer → SPF 50 PM: Cleanser → Clarity Serum → Moisturizer
Apply 2-3 drops to clean, dry skin. Massage gently into face, focusing on acne-prone areas. Allow 1-2 minutes to absorb before next step.
Q: Can I use this as a spot treatment?
A: Yes! Apply directly to active breakouts morning and night. However, for best preventive results, we recommend using it on your entire face to prevent new breakouts from forming.
Q: How often should I use it?
A: Start: Once daily (evening) for first week Increase: Twice daily (AM + PM) as tolerated Sensitive skin: Alternate nights, gradually increase Maintenance: Twice daily consistently
Q: Should I use it morning, night, or both?
A: Both for maximum results. Morning application protects throughout the day; evening application works overnight during skin's repair cycle. Always follow morning application with SPF 50+.
Q: How long until I see results? A: Timeline varies by concern:
- Reduced inflammation: 3-7 days
- Fewer new breakouts: 2-3 weeks
- Clearer skin: 4-6 weeks
- Significantly improved acne: 8-12 weeks Consistency is crucial—use twice daily without skipping.