# The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as salicylic acid helps to cleanse pores and smooth texture by aiding in seboregulation. This ingredient is highly suitable for managing oily shine and combination skin concerns.
- The formulation is safe for your combination skin, with no harsh ingredients that would pose an irritation risk.
- The product provides general skincare benefits with a moderate approach to exfoliation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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/))
- Dipropylene glycol, propylene glycol, and butylene glycol increased molecular mobility in stratum corneum lipids and affected keratin filaments, with butylene glycol and propylene glycol providing significant permeation enhancement. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150813/))
- 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 product in your PM routine starting once a week, then increase frequency carefully if your skin feels fine.
- Apply this exfoliant step after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and wait a minute before layering.
- Apply the exfoliant to clean, dry skin to help control your oily shine comfortably.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid work for combination skin?

This product works moderately well for combination skin because salicylic acid helps to cleanse pores and smooth texture, though other products fit it better. To fit this skin type best, an exfoliant treatment needs effective ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA that regulate oiliness, enhance radiance, and provide balanced hydration without 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/)

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

Salicylic acid makes this exfoliant a good fit for combination skin because it helps to cleanse pores and smooth texture by balancing oil, while propylene glycol and butylene glycol help the ingredients sink in. An exfoliant of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to give combination skin the best balance of hydration and oil control.
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 combination skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of 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/)

### What does Water do for combination skin?

Water helps keep combination skin hydrated, though a product of this type needs additional barrier-protecting ingredients like ceramides or petrolatum to lock in that moisture and support overall skin health.

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This exfoliant treatment goes in your evening routine, starting once a week before your moisturizer. Combination skin needs products with salicylic acid to help cleanse pores and smooth texture while managing oily shine.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol by alternating nights or applying them at different times, as combining them directly may increase the risk of skin irritation. When building a routine for combination skin, a product of this type needs soothing and hydrating ingredients alongside gentle exfoliants like salicylic acid to keep skin calm and smooth.

### How often should I use it?

Start using this treatment once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often. This product of this type needs soothing and hydrating ingredients to keep combination skin balanced while it exfoliates.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores on combination skin, as salicylic acid helps to cleanse pores and manage oily shine. Combination skin needs ingredients like salicylic acid for pore cleansing and seboregulation to keep the skin smooth and clear.
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 combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €52.57 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €385.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €115.30 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Ireland 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/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/beta-hydroxy-acid-serum/for/combination-skin