The oily and combination skin routine

A gentle routine (cleanse, a 2% BHA exfoliant once a day in the evening to start, moisturiser, and SPF in the morning) helps keep pores clear. Begin once a day in the evening for the first week, then apply twice daily if your skin feels comfortable.

Before you start: patch test

Choose a discreet area, such as behind the ear or along the jaw.
Apply a small amount once a day for a few days.
Check for redness, itching or stinging.
No reaction? Start using the product as directed, slowly. A reaction? Stop and rinse it off.

Evening routine

Cleanse and pat your face dry.
Put 2-3 drops on your fingertips and massage in gently with upward motions. Avoid the eye area. Do not rinse.
Wait 15-20 minutes so it absorbs.
Follow with moisturiser.

Morning routine

Wear SPF in the morning.

How often

Begin once a day (evening) for the first week and then apply twice daily if skin feels comfortable. These are the directions on the Glowness product page. If your skin does not feel comfortable, do not move on to twice daily; if irritation develops, rinse it off and stop using it.

Combination skin

Combination skin usually means an oily T-zone with drier cheeks. Apply the BHA to the oily areas first; on the drier areas use less, or skip them on some evenings.

Habits that help

Do not squeeze: squeezing can irritate and mark the skin, and the pore usually fills again.
One exfoliant is enough: skip scrubs alongside a BHA.
Be patient: give a consistent routine several weeks before judging it.

Who it is not for

Skin that is only dry.
Pregnant, breastfeeding or allergic to salicylic acid: consult your GP or pharmacist before use.
Anyone using prescription retinoids or isotretinoin: ask your prescriber, GP or pharmacist before adding a BHA.
Children.

When to see a pharmacist or GP

Painful, inflamed or persistent spots are not a cosmetic issue. Speak to a pharmacist or GP.

Warnings (from the product page)

External use only. Patch-test before first use. In the event of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice if you experience irritation; rinse skin and discontinue use. Consult a physician if you are pregnant, nursing, or allergic to salicylic acid. Not to be used for children under 3 years of age. Keep out of reach of children.

Use SPF, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterward.

Frequently asked questions

Do I rinse it off?

No. It is a leave-on exfoliant: apply it, let it absorb, then moisturise.

Can I use it every day?

Yes. Begin once a day (evening) for the first week and then apply twice daily if skin feels comfortable.

How long until I see a difference?

It varies. Give a consistent routine several weeks.

The Glowness 2% BHA Serum (50 ml) is a leave-on exfoliant with 2% plant-derived salicylic acid, made for oily and combination skin*.

*Based on a 28-day dermatologist-assessed study of 20 women aged 18-35 when used as part of a skincare routine. Individual results may vary.