Below is every ingredient in Salicylic Acid + LHA 2% Body Wash explained, its standout actives, and the side effects reported in research for those actives — analysed for Indian skin.
Flags derived from the ingredient list using dermatology reference data (fungal-acne substrate, comedogenicity, EU allergens). General guidance, not a diagnosis.
Answers are derived from the printed ingredient list and dermatology reference data — general guidance, not a diagnosis or a therapeutic claim.
Salicylic acid is a lipid-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin surface and penetrates sebaceous pores to loosen and dissolve keratin and debris. It is widely used to treat acne, blackheads, and conditions involving thickened or scaly skin.
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (also called LHA) is a lipophilic derivative of salicylic acid in which a fatty caprylic chain is attached, allowing slower, more targeted penetration into the skin. It is used as an exfoliant to promote desquamation, refine skin texture, and help manage acne and signs of photoaging.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin dryness or barrier disruption with excessive contact | Uncommon | Frequent or prolonged exposure to water, especially hot or hard water, can disrupt the skin barrier and contribute to transepidermal water loss. |
| Irritation from impurities or hard water minerals | Rare | Reactions are attributed to contaminants, chlorine, or mineral content rather than water itself. |
| Mild skin dryness or tightness | Uncommon | More likely with high concentrations or frequent use on already dry skin. |
| Skin irritation or redness | Rare | Generally considered low-irritant; possible in sensitive individuals or with prolonged contact. |
| Eye irritation | Rare | Can cause stinging if cleanser enters the eyes. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Sensitization is uncommon but has been occasionally reported. |
| Mild skin or eye irritation | Uncommon | Possible at higher concentrations or with prolonged contact, though milder than stronger sulfates. |
| Skin dryness | Uncommon | Can occur with frequent use due to removal of skin lipids. |
| Skin dryness and peeling | Common | Mild flaking or tightness, especially with frequent use or higher concentrations. |
| Stinging, burning, or irritation | Common | Transient sensation on application, often more pronounced on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Erythema (redness) | Common | Temporary redness at the application site. |
| Contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Localized inflammation; can be irritant or, less often, allergic in nature. |
| Increased photosensitivity | Uncommon | Exfoliation may heighten sun sensitivity; sunscreen use is advised. |
| Salicylism (systemic toxicity) | Rare | Reported with extensive application over large body areas, high concentrations, or occlusion; symptoms include nausea, tinnitus, and dizziness. |
| Severe allergic reaction | Very rare | Hypersensitivity reactions such as significant swelling or hives. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Water Solvent/vehicle | Water is the most common base ingredient in cosmetic formulations, serving as a solvent that dissolves other ingredients and forms the bulk of emulsions and aqueous solutions. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. |
| Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Mild surfactant/cleansing agent | Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a gentle, coconut-derived anionic surfactant widely used in syndet cleansing bars and facial cleansers to produce a creamy lather while being milder than traditional soaps. It cleanses by emulsifying oils and debris with relatively low irritation potential. |
| Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate Surfactant/cleansing agent | Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate is a mild anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, used in cleansers, shampoos, and foaming products to provide gentle cleansing and foam. It is generally considered milder and less irritating than harsher sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate. |
| Salicylic Acid Key active Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliant / keratolytic | Salicylic acid is a lipid-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin surface and penetrates sebaceous pores to loosen and dissolve keratin and debris. It is widely used to treat acne, blackheads, and conditions involving thickened or scaly skin. |
| Capryloyl Salicylic Acid Key active Exfoliant / keratolytic | Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (also called LHA) is a lipophilic derivative of salicylic acid in which a fatty caprylic chain is attached, allowing slower, more targeted penetration into the skin. It is used as an exfoliant to promote desquamation, refine skin texture, and help manage acne and signs of photoaging. |
| Niacinamide Key active Cell-communicating / barrier-repair active | Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Betaine Humectant / osmolyte | Betaine is a naturally derived amino acid derivative (trimethylglycine) used in skincare as a humectant and osmoprotectant that attracts and retains moisture while helping stabilize skin barrier function. It also improves the texture and mildness of formulations. |
| Sodium Chloride Thickener / viscosity adjuster | Sodium chloride (table salt) is commonly used in cosmetics as a thickening and viscosity-control agent, particularly in surfactant-based cleansers, and also acts as a mild abrasive in scrubs. It is generally well tolerated and considered a formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Citric Acid pH adjuster / AHA exfoliant | Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from citrus fruits, used primarily to adjust and buffer formulation pH and as a chelating agent, and at higher concentrations as a mild chemical exfoliant. It can promote surface cell turnover and is sometimes included in antioxidant or brightening products. |
| Sodium Hydroxide pH adjuster | Sodium hydroxide (lye) is a strong alkaline compound used in small amounts to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations. At regulated low concentrations in finished products it is considered safe, though it is corrosive in concentrated form. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects cosmetic and skincare formulations from bacterial and fungal contamination. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and serves as a formulation/base ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative booster / skin-conditioning agent | Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional glyceryl ether used in cosmetics primarily as a preservative-enhancing agent and emollient, often paired with phenoxyethanol to broaden antimicrobial efficacy. It also acts as a deodorizing agent and humectant in skincare formulations. |
Key active = does the main work. Ingredient explanations are drawn from public databases & literature.
Peer-reviewed papers on the active ingredients in this product, via PubMed.