Q: What is salicylic acid and how does it work?
A: Salicylic Acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate sebum and clean deep inside pores. It exfoliates by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, preventing clogged pores, blackheads, and acne. At 2% concentration, it's clinically effective yet gentle for daily use.
Q: Is 2% salicylic acid safe for daily use?
A: Yes! 2% is the optimal concentration for facial use—strong enough to be effective but gentle enough for daily cleansing. Our formula includes soothing ingredients (Aloe Vera, Centella, Chamomile) to prevent irritation, making it safe for morning and evening use.
Q: Will salicylic acid dry out my skin?
A: Not with Clair's formula. While salicylic acid can be drying alone, we've balanced it with hydrating ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid (moisture retention), Glycerin (humectant), Aloe Vera 5% (hydration), and Vitamin E 2% (barrier support). You get exfoliation without dryness.
Q: Can I use salicylic acid cleanser if I have sensitive skin?
A: Yes, if your sensitivity isn't severe. Start using once daily (evening), then increase to twice daily as tolerance builds. The inclusion of Centella Asiatica, Chamomile, and Aloe Vera specifically helps calm and protect sensitive skin. Patch test first if you have very reactive skin.
Q: How long until I see results from 2% salicylic acid?
A: Timeline varies by concern:
- Smoother texture: 1-2 weeks
- Reduced blackheads: 2-3 weeks
- Fewer breakouts: 3-4 weeks
- Refined pores: 4-6 weeks
- Consistent use is key for best results.
Q: Can I use this with other salicylic acid products?
A: Yes, but start slowly. If using salicylic acid serums or spot treatments, introduce one product at a time. Monitor for dryness or irritation. Many people successfully use SA cleanser AM + SA treatment PM, or alternate days.
the Formula
Q: Why is Aloe Vera included at 5%?
A: Aloe Vera at 5% concentration provides significant anti-inflammatory, soothing, and hydrating benefits. It contains 75+ bioactive compounds including vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that calm irritation caused by acne and exfoliation. It's essential for balancing salicylic acid's exfoliating power.
Q: What does Vitamin E do in a cleanser?
A: At 2%, Vitamin E (Tocopherol) acts as a powerful antioxidant protecting against free radical damage and environmental stress. It also nourishes skin, supports barrier function, and has anti-inflammatory properties—particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Q: Is this cleanser sulfate-free?
A: Yes! We use Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate (amino acid-derived) and Cocamidopropyl Betaine (coconut-derived) instead of harsh sulfates like SLS/SLES. These gentle surfactants clean effectively without stripping natural oils or disrupting skin barrier.
Q: What is the pH of this cleanser?
A: 5.0-5.5, which is optimal for skin health. This pH range:
- Matches your skin's natural acid mantle
- Maximizes salicylic acid effectiveness
- Maintains barrier function
- Prevents irritation and dryness
- Supports beneficial skin microbiome
Q: What is prebiotic Inulin and why is it important?
A: Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that feeds beneficial bacteria on your skin's surface. A balanced microbiome helps prevent acne by crowding out harmful bacteria, reduces inflammation, and supports overall skin health. It's next-generation skincare science.
Q: What are the fragrance options?
A: We offer three natural botanical fragrances:
- Tea Tree: Purifying, antimicrobial, perfect for acne-prone skin
- Lavender: Calming, soothing, ideal for sensitive types
- Basil: Refreshing, balancing, great for combination skin All are derived from natural essential oils, not synthetic fragrance.
Q: Does this contain Hyaluronic Acid? In a cleanser?
A: Yes! Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) in cleansers might seem unusual, but it serves an important purpose: it binds moisture to skin even during the cleansing process, preventing the tight, dry feeling common with exfoliating cleansers. Some remains on skin even after rinsing.
Q: What is Centella Asiatica and Chamomile for?
A: Both are healing botanicals:
- Centella Asiatica (Cica): Accelerates wound healing, reduces inflammation, boosts collagen production, calms redness
- Chamomile Extract: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, soothes irritation, reduces sensitivity Together they ensure acne treatment doesn't compromise skin health.
Usage & Compatibility
Q: How do I use this cleanser? A:
- Wet face with lukewarm water
- Dispense small amount (dime-sized) into palm
- Massage gently onto face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds
- Rinse thoroughly with water
- Pat dry and follow with moisturizer Use 1-2 times daily (morning and/or evening).
Q: Should I use this morning, evening, or both? A: Depends on your skin:
- Oily/Very acne-prone: Twice daily (AM + PM)
- Combination/Moderate acne: Once daily (PM preferred)
- Sensitive/First-time BHA user: Start once daily (PM), increase as tolerated Always follow with sunscreen in the morning.
Q: Can I use this with retinol or other actives?
A: Yes, with caution:
- Retinol/Retinoids: Use SA cleanser AM, retinol PM (or alternate nights)
- AHA/Glycolic Acid: Alternate days to avoid over-exfoliation
- Vitamin C: Safe to use; SA cleanser AM, Vitamin C serum afterward
- Niacinamide: Perfectly compatible, can use together Listen to your skin and reduce frequency if irritation occurs.
Q: Do I need to use toner after this cleanser?
A: Not necessary. Our pH-balanced formula (5.0-5.5) means your skin is already at optimal pH. However, if you enjoy toner as a hydration step, feel free to include one. Skip astringent/drying toners as they're redundant with salicylic acid.
Q: Can I use this to remove makeup?
A: This cleanser removes light makeup, but for heavy/waterproof makeup, use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water first (double cleanse method). This ensures the salicylic acid can work on skin rather than just removing makeup.
Q: Can I use this on body acne?
A: Absolutely! It's effective for back acne, chest breakouts, and other body concerns. The 2% salicylic acid concentration works the same way. May need a larger size for regular body use.
Q: Is this safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: Salicylic acid in wash-off products (cleansers) at 2% is generally considered safe during pregnancy, as absorption is minimal. However, always consult your healthcare provider before using any salicylic acid products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Skin Type & Concerns
Q: I have dry skin—will this work for me?
A: While formulated primarily for oily/combination skin, the high Aloe Vera (5%), Hyaluronic Acid, and Glycerin content make it suitable for dry skin with acne. Start with once-daily use and follow with a rich moisturizer. If excessive dryness occurs, reduce frequency.
Q: Will this help with blackheads?
A: Yes! Salicylic acid is one of the most effective ingredients for blackheads. Its oil-soluble nature allows it to penetrate sebum-filled pores and dissolve the oxidized oil and dead skin that form blackheads. Expect visible improvement in 2-4 weeks.
Q: Can this help with large pores?
A: Yes. While you can't permanently shrink pores, regular salicylic acid use keeps them clear of debris, making them appear smaller. The exfoliating action also improves skin texture around pores, creating a smoother, more refined appearance.
Q: I have hormonal acne—will this help?
A: Salicylic acid cleanser helps with surface-level hormonal breakouts by keeping pores clear and reducing inflammation. However, hormonal acne often requires additional treatment (topical retinoids, oral medication). Use this as part of a comprehensive routine.
Q: Can teenagers use this?
A: Yes! 2% salicylic acid is safe and effective for teen acne. It's often the first-line treatment dermatologists recommend. The gentle, pH-balanced formula with soothing botanicals makes it appropriate for young skin.
Q: Will this fade acne scars and dark spots?
A: Salicylic acid provides mild improvement in post-acne marks through gentle exfoliation, but it's not the strongest ingredient for hyperpigmentation. For better results with scars/dark spots, pair with targeted treatments (Vitamin C, niacinamide, retinoids) and always use sunscreen.
Product Details
Q: What size is the bottle and how long does it last?
A: 100ml bottle. With twice-daily use (dime-sized amount each time), expect 6-8 weeks. Once-daily use extends to 12-14 weeks.
Q: Is this product vegan and cruelty-free?
A: Yes, completely cruelty-free (no animal testing). The formula is vegan-friendly—all ingredients are plant-derived or synthetic; no animal-derived ingredients.
Q: Where is this manufactured?
A: Proudly made in India in GMP-certified facilities with rigorous quality control standards.
Q: What's the shelf life?
A: 24 months from manufacturing date (unopened). Once opened, use within 12 months for optimal effectiveness. Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Q: Can I use this if I have rosacea?
A: Salicylic acid can be irritating for rosacea. Consult a dermatologist first. If approved, patch test and start with infrequent use (2-3x weekly). The soothing ingredients (Centella, Chamomile, Aloe) help, but proceed cautiously.