# St. Ives BHA Exfoliant for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

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

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

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

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

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your acne-prone and oily skin, as salicylic acid helps with blemishes and breakouts while glycerin provides humectant action.
- The presence of salicylic acid and bambusa vulgaris powder ensures effective exfoliation for your oily skin, and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract offers soothing benefits.
- The formula is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Bambusa Vulgaris Powder, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## 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 as part of your PM routine once a week to start, increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but before your final moisturizer step.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product directly onto clean, dry skin for the best results against breakouts.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use a daily SPF since exfoliating makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

St. Ives BHA Exfoliant is a great fit because salicylic acid helps clear breakouts and blemishes on oily skin while glycerin keeps it soft and hydrated. Additionally, bamboo extract and green tea help calm the skin and manage excess oil 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 acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid and bambusa vulgaris powder make this exfoliant a great fit by helping to clear blemishes and manage oil, while glycerin keeps your skin soft and camellia sinensis leaf extract calms it. These ingredients work together to give your oily skin effective exfoliation without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts and keeps oily skin balanced by reducing oil levels and calming inflammation. It is well suited for oily, acne-prone skin because it targets pimples while helping keep the skin hydrated and protected.
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 acne-prone skin?

Bamboo powder helps oily acne-prone skin by absorbing extra oil to leave your face feeling clean and matte. Because activated charcoal lacks strong proof for treating breakouts, products for this skin type still rely on ingredients like bamboo powder, green tea, and lactic acid to manage oil and calm skin.

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

This exfoliant treatment goes in the evening routine. It starts at once a week, and people who tolerate it well and see good results can carefully use it more often.

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

You can use this exfoliant in your evening routine on nights you do not use retinol, applying it after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Alternating these active treatments helps keep your oily, acne-prone skin smooth while lowering the likelihood of irritation.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in the evening, and if your oily acne-prone skin tolerates it well and sees good results, you may carefully use it more often. Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts while remaining gentle, making it a great fit for your skin type.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14725662/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16640681/)

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores and has a low likelihood of causing initial breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid helps clear blemishes, while soothing ingredients and the absence of harsh components keep irritation risks low.
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 this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €99.41 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €29.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Netherlands 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-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/st-ives/bha-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin