Ester of betaine and salicylic acid. A milder alternative: releases salicylic acid gradually on skin, providing surface keratolytic action.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Positioned as mild BHA. Direct comparisons to pure salicylic acid are limited to manufacturer data.
Betaine Salicylate is a salt of betaine and salicylic acid. Designed as an alternative to pure salicylic acid in Asian cosmetics and in countries that restrict OTC salicylic: in contact with skin it slowly releases free salicylic acid. Mechanism. Skin esterases slowly cleave the bond and release salicylic acid into the stratum corneum. Salicylic acid then acts as a lipophilic beta-hydroxy acid: penetrates sebaceous duct openings, dissolves keratin plugs, regulates keratinisation, and mildly inhibits Cutibacterium acnes. 4% betaine salicylate is roughly equivalent to 2% salicylic acid by effect but is gentler. Where applied. Korean anti-acne and anti-comedone products (COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid 4%, Stridex, Some By Mi), oily-skin toners. In Spain less common – usually via imported K-beauty lines at Druni and Sephora ES. Evidence base. Few direct RCTs on betaine salicylate; most data are formulator studies and in vitro comparisons with salicylic acid. Indirect evidence via equivalence with 2% salicylic acid, which has hundreds of clinical RCTs in acne (Cochrane Yang 2020). Safety. Irritation, dryness, scaling in early weeks in 10–20% of patients – usually milder than with salicylic acid at the same concentration. Does not photosensitise directly, but irritated skin is vulnerable – daily SPF 30+. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Systemic salicylate absorption through skin is low but not zero. AEMPS and SEGO 2023 recommend avoiding high BHA concentrations in pregnancy; rinse-off products (toners, cleansers) on limited areas are acceptable. Alternatives: azelaic acid or niacinamide. Particularly suitable for. Oily and combination skin, blackheads, mild to moderate acne, patients in whom 2% salicylic acid stings and irritates. Not for dry and sensitive skin in flare.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
CautionThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Betaine Salicylate should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Betaine Salicylate suits: oily, combination, normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Ester of betaine and salicylic acid.
The INCI name is Betaine Salicylate. It may also appear as: Бетаин салицилат.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution