What is the difference between 1% and 2% salicylic acid?

Strength. The 1% is the gentler entry point, ideal if you are new to salicylic acid or active skincare. The 2% is high strength, for those who have used salicylic acid comfortably and want more. If you are starting out, begin with the 1% every few days and build up before moving to 2%. There is no benefit in starting stronger than your skin is ready for.

Why is this salicylic acid in an oil rather than a gel or toner?

Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so an oil base carries it effectively into the hair follicle where congestion collects, without the propylene glycol, synthetic solvents and preservatives most salicylic acid products rely on. The oil base also cushions the skin, so you get the exfoliating benefit while the skin barrier stays supported rather than stripped.

Can I use it as both a cleanser and a leave-on?

Yes, that is part of what makes it versatile. As an oil cleanser, massage in, leave for 2-5 minutes and remove with a damp cloth. As a leave-on step, apply a small amount to clean skin in the evening and wait 10 minutes before other products. Start with whichever suits your routine, and build up frequency gradually.

Can I use the 2% salicylic acid on my scalp?

Yes. Apply directly to the scalp with a tint brush, leave overnight to gently exfoliate and condition, then wash out in the morning. It helps lift the flaky build-up that can leave a scalp feeling less than fresh. Start once or twice a week and see how your scalp responds.

How long until I see results, and do I need sunscreen?

Skin renews on its own timeline, so give it consistent use. For the look of pigmentation and sun damage, best results can take three to four months. Daily sunscreen is essential throughout, both to protect your progress and because exfoliated skin is more exposed. Keep applying sunscreen every day.

Nubeean Noosa

2% Salicylic Acid High Strength Formula

Name: 2% Salicylic Acid High Strength Formula
Brand: Nubeean Noosa
Price: 19.0 AUD
Availability: InStock

$19

2% Salicylic Acid - High Strength

Clean, active skincare for brighter, smoother, more radiant-looking skin.

Created by a naturopath and nutritionist so that dry, mature and sun-damaged skin can enjoy the benefits of salicylic acid. Also available as a 1% formulation and 10% Professional Strength.

100% free from fragrance, preservatives, parabens, sulphates and propylene glycol.

Salicylic acid is a plant-derived compound that has been used in skincare for over 2000 years. Its exfoliating action clears away the build-up of dead surface skin cells that make dry, mature and sun-damaged skin look dull and uneven, helping skin shed in a way that mimics more youthful skin.

Especially useful for skin prone to blackheads, whiteheads, congestion or the look of enlarged pores.

Supports skin renewal
Minimises the appearance of enlarged pores
Helps reduce blackheads, blemishes and milia
Helps soften the appearance of sun damage, including uneven tone and dark spots
Helps calm the look of redness
Improves absorption of serums and actives like vitamin C, bakuchiol, niacinamide and retinol

A multitasking skin hero - works as both an oil cleanser and a leave-on step. Naturopath and nutritionist formulated with just five ingredients.

Who It's For

Skin prone to breakouts and congestion
Blackheads
Milia (as a spot application)
Mature and sun-damaged skin
Rough, bumpy skin on the backs of the arms
Dry, flaky or scaly scalp
Dry skin on the hands

Also available as 1% Salicylic Acid.

How Salicylic Acid Works

Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is an oil-soluble exfoliant that dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells to the surface of your skin. Our ability to shed these cells decreases with age, which can leave skin looking dull, dry and uneven.

Because it's oil-soluble, salicylic acid can reach into the hair follicle, where it helps clear dead skin and old sebum - keeping the follicle clear and helping reduce congestion and blackheads.

Full Ingredients List

Medium chain triglyceride oil
Squalane
Organic castor oil
Salicylic acid
Natural vitamin E

How to Use

Oil cleanser - Massage into skin, focusing on areas of concern. Leave for 2-5 minutes, then remove with a damp face cloth or cotton pads. (Learn more about using salicylic acid as an oil cleanser.)

Leave-on step - Apply to clean skin in the evening. Wait 10 minutes before applying other products. If you're new to active skincare or salicylic acid, start with 1% every 3 days and build up to once daily before moving to 2%.

Scalp - Apply directly to the scalp with a tint brush. Leave overnight to gently exfoliate and condition the scalp, helping lift the flaky build-up that can leave a scalp looking and feeling less than fresh.

Hands - Massage into dry areas well before bed.

Backs of the arms - Apply to rough, bumpy skin after showering, once to twice daily.

For the look of pigmentation and sun damage - Start with 1% once daily, build to twice daily, then move up to 2% once your skin has adjusted. It can take 3-4 months to see the best results, and daily sun protection is essential.

Combines Well With

Vitamin C serums · Vitamin C + Bakuchiol · Blue Tansy Serum · Moisturising Balm for Very Dry Skin

Reactions and Side Effects

Used properly and not overused, salicylic acid is generally very well tolerated and clears away dead skin cells without damaging your skin barrier or stripping moisture. Don't combine with other products containing salicylic acid. A slight tingling on application is normal. You may notice some dry patches in the first few days from the exfoliating action, usually around days 3-5 - apply squalane or jojoba oil, leave for 5-10 minutes, then massage and wipe clean. Discontinue use if you experience burning or irritation. If you're unsure how to use it, please contact us.

Beautiful. Simple. Safe.