Ingredient
Salicylic Acid
Low concern Strong evidence Exfoliant · Preservative
EU concentration-restricted
BHA exfoliant. EU permits up to 2% as a cosmetic ingredient (3% in rinse-off shampoo, 0.5% as preservative). Contraindicated in children under 3 except in shampoo. Established efficacy for acne and oil control at low concentrations.
On the plus side
Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliant; well-studied for acne treatment and pore decongesting at typical 0.5–2% cosmetic concentrations.
Sources
GlowOS describes what regulatory bodies and published research say about an ingredient — it does not tell you what to use or avoid, and none of this is medical advice. Concentration, formulation, and your own skin all matter. For skin conditions, see a dermatologist.
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