Ingredient decoder

Betaine salicylate: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Betaine Salicylate

Acne verdict Acne helper

Helps acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Gentler salicylic acid relative that exfoliates pores.

  • Anti-acne
  • Antimicrobial
  • Keratolytic

Betaine salicylate in plain English

Betaine salicylate is made by combining salicylic acid with betaine, a moisturizing ingredient from sugar beets. It exfoliates similarly to salicylic acid but is often considered gentler. Direct acne studies are limited, so it is best seen as a milder option for clogged pores.

Is betaine salicylate bad for acne?

No. Betaine salicylate is on the helpful side for acne-prone skin and is not known to clog pores. Our checker groups it with the anti-acne ingredients. Like most acne actives, it can cause dryness or irritation at first, so start slowly.

Clean routine and still breaking out? The cause may be internal. See what is driving it

Also called

  • Betaine Salicylate
  • Salicylic acid betaine

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Frequently asked questions

Is betaine salicylate comedogenic?

There is no published comedogenic rating for betaine salicylate, and it is not known to clog pores. It is used in products made for acne-prone skin.

What does betaine salicylate do in skincare?

In short: gentler salicylic acid relative that exfoliates pores. In formulas it is used for antimicrobial and keratolytic.

What else is betaine salicylate called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, betaine salicylate can also appear as Salicylic acid betaine.

Sources