Face Wash with Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid and AHA: Do They Work in a Cleanser?

A face wash stays on your skin for under a minute, so it will not do the work of a serum. But the right actives in a cleanser still help, especially for oily or combination skin with visible pores and rough texture.

Salicylic acid (BHA)

Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it can reach into pores during the cleanse and help keep them clear. In a rinse-off product it is a sensible daily option for oily and combination skin.

AHA

Alpha hydroxy acids, such as the fruit acids in natural AHA blends, loosen dead skin at the surface so texture feels smoother. In a rinse-off cleanser the contact time is short, which makes a low level a good partner for BHA in everyday use.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is well tolerated and helps refine the look of pores and uneven tone. In a cleanser it is a supporting ingredient; keep a niacinamide serum if you want stronger results.

Keep it gentle

Actives work best in a cleanser that does not strip. Look for a sulphate-free base with hydrators such as aloe, hyaluronic acid or panthenol. Deloura's Adaptogenic Mochi Face Cleanser combines natural AHA, BHA and niacinamide in a sulphate-free jelly with aloe vera and aquaporin, plus ashwagandha, ginseng and cica.

Patch test first if you are new to acids, and use sunscreen during the day.