Ingredient decoder

Capryloyl salicylic acid: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Capryloyl Salicylic Acid

Acne verdict Acne helper

Helps acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Slow-releasing salicylic acid derivative for pores.

  • Anti-acne
  • Skin conditioning

Capryloyl salicylic acid in plain English

Capryloyl salicylic acid is salicylic acid with an added fatty chain, which makes it more oil-loving and slower acting. It exfoliates gradually at the surface, which can help with clogged pores and blackheads with less stinging. Evidence for acne is smaller than for salicylic acid itself.

Is capryloyl salicylic acid bad for acne?

No. Capryloyl salicylic acid 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

  • Capryloyl Salicylic Acid
  • LHA
  • Lipohydroxy acid
  • Beta-lipohydroxy acid

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Frequently asked questions

Is capryloyl salicylic acid comedogenic?

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

What does capryloyl salicylic acid do in skincare?

In short: slow-releasing salicylic acid derivative for pores. In formulas it is used for skin conditioning.

What else is capryloyl salicylic acid called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, capryloyl salicylic acid can also appear as LHA, Lipohydroxy acid or Beta-lipohydroxy acid.

Sources