Salicylic Acid: a beta-hydroxy acid and outstanding deep cleanser most commonly used to treat comedonal or non-inflamed acne. Acne originates by an excess secretion of oils from the sebaceous glands in conjunction with dead skin cells (corneocytes) which block the follicle of the hair. These oil secretions build up underneath the blocked pore, creating a perfect environment for bacteria. Salicylic’s larger molecular size, allows it to generate less irritation than the alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid etc.), permitting the structure to cling to the surface for longer periods of time, which results in a more efficient cleansing of the pores. Salicylic also destroys the bacteria below the surface, helping to unclog the pores through exfoliation, creating better breathing passages for the skin.

Tea Tree Oil: is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Australian Melaleuca Alternafolia tree. Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol, which is thought to be responsible for the oil’s antimicrobial activity. The oil has been proven to be effective in killing acne bacteria (propionibacterium acnes ) when applied topically, and has often been used as a natural alternative to benzoyl peroxide. In a study comparing tea tree oil to benzoyl peroxide, patients who applied the tea tree oil topically, experienced much less side effects compared to those who applied benzoyl peroxide. People in both groups experienced a significant reduction in inflamed and non-inflamed acne lesions.