# The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as salicylic acid helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation, while also providing seboregulation.
- The presence of phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin ensures a gentle application, making it suitable for your skin type.
- The formula is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical octenidine dihydrochloride and 2-phenoxyethanol decreased papules and pustules by more than 50% in the majority of patients with mild to moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris. ([Acta Dermatovenerologica Alpina, Pannonica, Et Adriatica, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18853079/))
- 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/))
- Treatment with a combination of propylene glycol, ethanol, water, and shampoo was found effective, easy to use, and cosmetically attractive with no observed side effects in patients with dandruff. ([Cutis, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2970946/))
- A moisturizer containing glycerol and propylene glycol reduced transepidermal water loss, decreased epidermal thickness, increased stratum corneum thickness, and reduced dermal inflammatory infiltrate compared to untreated disrupted skin in six healthy beagle dogs. ([Veterinary Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628309/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is highly effective for oily and combination skin, frequently praised for clearing pores, reducing blackheads, and calming breakouts without irritation. Most users find the formula gentle and hydrating, though a moderate number of reviews mention a sticky residue and a high number of users express dissatisfaction with the packaging.

- Liked: Clears congested pores (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces active acne (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor packaging (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Mixed effectiveness (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant PM once a week to start, and gradually increase if your combination skin tolerates it well. Always apply SPF the next morning to protect your clear skin.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer step. This ensures the treatment targets blemishes effectively.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing. Let it absorb for a minute before moving to the next step.
- Apply the exfoliant on clean, dry skin to help control breakouts safely. Since your skin is not sensitive, this dry application method ensures good product absorption.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Do not mix this exfoliant with other strong acids in the same routine.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum work for acne-prone skin?

The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum is an average fit for acne-prone skin because salicylic acid helps unclog pores and calm inflammation. It provides moderate exfoliation, though products rated higher for this skin need soothing ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to better target breakouts and balance oil.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid makes this serum a good fit for acne-prone skin because it helps unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and control oil, while phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin ensure a gentle application. To fit acne-prone skin even better, an exfoliant treatment needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, zinc PCA, antioxidants, and hydrating agents that target breakouts and control oil without causing excess oiliness or dryness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and calming redness without causing many side effects. It works by dipping deep into pores to clear out blockages and control oil, making it a reliable choice for keeping skin smooth and clear.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Water do for acne-prone skin?

Water-based hydration helps keep acne-prone skin balanced by providing essential moisture without adding excess oil. Proper hydration also helps reduce dryness and flakiness that can sometimes result from harsh acne treatments.

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This serum goes in your evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. Acne-prone skin needs a product of this type to include salicylic acid for clearing pores and soothing inflammation, along with gentle ingredients to keep the skin calm.

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

This product may be used with retinol, but because it is an exfoliant, using them on alternate nights or times of day helps prevent irritation on acne-prone skin. Apply this salicylic acid serum after cleansing and before your moisturizer when using it in your routine.

### How often should I use this serum?

Start by using this serum just once a week in the evening, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. This product helps clear pores and calm redness with salicylic acid, but acne-prone skin often does better with a formula that also targets breakouts more deeply and regulates oil.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This serum helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation for your acne-prone skin, so it is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts. However, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients and gentle acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid to properly care for acne-prone skin without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €169.99 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €29.76 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €21.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €34.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/acne-prone-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, Salicylic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta
## 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/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
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