# St. Ives BHA Exfoliant for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Spain.

Brand: [St. Ives](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/st-ives)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best products for oily skin.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your oily skin, as salicylic acid and bambusa vulgaris powder work to clear pores and control shine. Camellia sinensis leaf extract also provides antioxidant benefits, complementing your skin's needs.
- The formulation is highly suitable for oily skin due to the keratolytic action of salicylic acid and the antioxidant properties of green tea extract.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/mature-skin): Caution
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Bambusa Vulgaris Powder, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- Ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions of Bambusa vulgaris leaves accelerate cutaneous wound healing and inhibit carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. ([Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27297505/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Topical application of green tea extract encapsulated chitosan microparticles improved skin elasticity, melanin index, and facial wrinkles compared to a placebo in female volunteers without causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34965006/))

## What reviewers say

Users generally praise this liquid exfoliant for being surprisingly gentle and non-drying compared to the brand's famous scrubs, making it a favorite for those with sensitive but oily skin. While many report smoother texture and clearer pores after consistent use, a minority find the formula too mild to treat stubborn acne or experienced initial skin purging.

- Liked: Gentle and non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective pore control (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fragrance-free formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow or mild results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for dry areas (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Rare sensitivity (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product as part of your PM routine once a week. Start slowly and build up frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb fully. Avoid any harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the exfoliant directly onto completely dry skin to get the best balance and results. Clean, dry skin helps the product work evenly.
- Always avoid the delicate eye area when applying. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily while using exfoliating acids.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes St. Ives BHA Exfoliant a great fit for oily skin?

St. Ives BHA Exfoliant is a great fit for oily skin because salicylic acid and bamboo extract work to clear pores and control shine. Green tea extract also provides helpful antioxidants that complement your skin's needs without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for oily skin?

Salicylic acid and bamboo powder make this exfoliant a great fit by clearing pores and controlling shine on oily skin. Green tea extract adds helpful antioxidant benefits to complement your skin needs.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for oily skin?

Salicylic acid helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and keeping pores clear. It may also improve overall skin hydration while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

### What does Bamboo Powder do for oily skin?

Bamboo powder helps oily skin by absorbing excess oil to keep your face looking fresh and matte. It is unlikely to cause irritation and works well to reduce shine throughout the day.

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine, starting at once a week and slowly increasing if your skin tolerates it well. Salicylic acid and bamboo powder help clear pores and control shine, while green tea extract provides helpful antioxidants.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this exfoliant and retinol in the same week, but it is best to use them on different nights to keep your skin calm and avoid irritation. Apply this treatment on your scheduled treatment nights after cleansing and toning, and leave your retinol for a separate night.

### How often should I use it?

Start using this treatment once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results. It offers moderate exfoliation that helps clear pores and control shine on your oily skin.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores and has a low likelihood of causing initial breakouts for oily skin, as it uses salicylic acid and bamboo extract to help clear pores and control shine. Salicylic acid works by diving deep into pores to dissolve trapped oil and dead skin cells, which generally prevents congestion.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €169.99 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €29.76 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Spain has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid, Bambusa Vulgaris Powder, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-skin