What does 2% mean on a salicylic acid or BHA label?
The percentage is the strength of the salicylic acid in the formula, not a score. DermNet says strengths range from 0.5% up to 30%. The Glowness 2% BHA Serum contains 2% plant-derived salicylic acid.
The number is a strength, not a score
The percentage on the label tells you how strong the salicylic acid in that formula is. DermNet sets out the range these products come in: "Strengths of salicylic acid preparations range from 0.5% up to 30%."
Why a bigger number is not automatically better
A higher percentage is a stronger formula, and strength has a cost. DermNet notes: "Mild stinging may occur especially on broken skin and when higher concentrations are used."
Whatever the number on the pack, the instructions that came with it are the ones to follow. DermNet: "It is very important that you use preparations strictly as directed on the label."
What the 2% in Glowness 2% BHA Serum refers to
The product page lists "2% Plant-derived Salicylic Acid (BHA)", so the 2% is the salicylic acid in the formula. In the words of the product page:
- Helps clear pore build-up and helps reduce the look of blemishes for smoother skin.
- Plant-derived 2% BHA helps clear built-up oil and dead cells for visibly tighter-looking pores.
The Glowness 2% BHA Serum (50 ml) is a leave-on exfoliant with 2% plant-derived salicylic acid, made for oily and combination skin*.
Also available on Amazon UK (opens in a new tab)
*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.
Reading the rest of the label
The percentage is one line on a label. What else is in the formula, and whether it is left on or rinsed off, matter as well: see how to choose a salicylic acid serum and the full Glowness ingredient list. For what salicylic acid is in the first place, read what is salicylic acid, and for where the 2% ceiling comes from in UK law, see why 2%: the UK limit on salicylic acid. For the other things a UK label usually shows, see how to read a skincare label in the UK.
Follow the directions on the pack. Patch-test before first use: see how to patch test a new skincare product.
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.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
What does 2% salicylic acid mean?
It means the formula contains salicylic acid at a strength of 2%. DermNet says strengths of salicylic acid preparations range from 0.5% up to 30%.
Is a higher percentage of salicylic acid better?
Not automatically. A higher percentage is a stronger formula: DermNet says mild stinging may occur especially on broken skin and when higher concentrations are used.
How much salicylic acid is in the Glowness 2% BHA Serum?
The product page lists 2% plant-derived salicylic acid (BHA).
How often should I use a 2% product?
For the Glowness 2% BHA Serum, follow the directions on the pack. For any other product, follow the directions on its own label.
The Glowness 2% BHA Serum (50 ml) is a leave-on exfoliant with 2% plant-derived salicylic acid, made for oily and combination skin*.
Also available on Amazon UK (opens in a new tab)
*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.
More guides
- Skincare routine for oily and combination skin
- How to use a 2% BHA exfoliant, and how often
- BHA for oily and combination skin
- Blackheads and visible pores: a simple routine
- How to patch test a new skincare product
- How to choose a salicylic acid serum for oily skin
- Glowness 2% BHA Serum: the full ingredient list
- What can you mix with salicylic acid (BHA)?
- Purging, breakout or irritation? What to expect when you start a BHA
- Sebaceous filaments or blackheads? How to tell
- What is salicylic acid?
- BHA liquid exfoliant, serum or scrub: what is the difference?
- BHA face wash or a leave-on BHA: what is the difference?
- Why 2%? The UK limit on salicylic acid in cosmetics
- How to read a skincare label in the UK
