# NATURIUM BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2% for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin

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

Brand: [NATURIUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/naturium)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin is provided by salicylic acid and citric acid, which offer potent keratolytic action and pH modulation to effectively address oily shine and cleanse pores. Glycerin and tocopherol further support your skin by providing soothing benefits and antioxidant protection, ensuring a balanced and comfortable experience.
- The 2% concentration of salicylic acid delivers exceptional chemical exfoliation, targeting excess oil and promoting a smoother skin texture.
- The safety profile is excellent, 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/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Bioactive Fruit Acids, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Citrus Glauca Fruit Extract

## What the research says

- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- A novel composition containing salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, HEPES, glycolic acid, citric acid, and dioic acid showed similar tolerance and efficacy compared with clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in subjects with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23545907/))
- Topical 20% citric acid lotion increases viable epidermal thickness and dermal glycosaminoglycan content in sun-damaged skin compared to vehicle alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9256916/))

## What reviewers say

Users with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin generally praise this exfoliant for effectively clearing blackheads and smoothing texture without the drying side effects common to other BHAs. While many consider it a gentler, more affordable alternative to premium competitors, a minority of users found it ineffective for severe congestion or experienced persistent breakouts.

- Liked: Improves texture and acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-drying (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight, non-sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts or reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for some (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (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 Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant one of the best fits for oily skin?

This exfoliant is one of the best fits for oily skin because salicylic acid and citric acid target excess oil, clean out pores, and smooth skin texture while keeping it comfortable. Glycerin and tocopherol also help soothe the skin and provide antioxidant protection. It has an excellent safety profile with very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [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 citric acid make this exfoliant a great fit for your oily skin by clearing away oily shine and cleaning out pores. Glycerin and tocopherol also help by calming the skin and keeping it comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [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 do Bioactive Fruit Acids do for oily skin?

Bioactive Fruit Acids help oily skin by clearing out pores and cutting down on extra oil and blackheads. This kind of skincare product needs ingredients that control oil and gently clear away dead skin to keep pores clean and clear.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26032934/)

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

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine as a treatment step, used once a week to start and carefully used more often if your skin tolerates it well. It helps clear pores and smooth texture on oily skin, while glycerin and tocopherol keep your skin calm and balanced.

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

You can use this treatment with retinol by alternating nights or applying them at different times, as using both at once may cause dryness or irritation on oily skin. Start slowly to see how your skin feels, and always follow up with a gentle moisturizer.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin feels comfortable and tolerates it well, you may carefully use it more often. It helps clear away excess oil and smooth your skin texture safely without causing irritation.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily skin because it uses salicylic acid and fruit acids to clear oil from pores and smooth texture, supported by a very safe formula with soothing ingredients. Studies show that salicylic acid treatments help control oily skin and reduce breakouts without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £24.20 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — £143.35 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £13.98 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £19.00 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B011U9M3MW?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Polyacrylate, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Diglycerin, Citrus Glauca Fruit Extract, Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract, Microcitrus Australis Fruit Extract, Hydroxyacetophenone, Chondrus Crispus, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Phytate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenylpropanol, Tocopherol
## 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/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin