Skin Care Insights — BHA
Salicylic Acid vs. Benzoyl Peroxide: Which Do You Need?
Benzoyl Peroxide BHA Breakouts Salicylic Acid
By Rachel Hawkins, licensed esthetician, 25+ years · November 2026 They're the two ingredients I get asked about most for breakout-prone skin. They do different jobs, and many people do best with both. Salicylic acid: the pore clearer Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), not an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It's oil-soluble, so it works inside the pore, loosening the dead cells and oil that form plugs. It's ideal for blackheads, congestion and oily T-zones. Try Salicylic Acid. ✨ Ask Rae: Salicylic acid is a BHA that clears inside the pore. BPO is your go-to for red blemishes....