Many of us have searched for solutions to common skincare issues such as large pores or those pesky little blackheads. In the midst of trying various home remedies and enduring painful pore strips, you may have come across dermatologists recommending the use of a salicylic acid product.
While using a salicylic acid face wash can be good for breakouts, it’s important to note that it gets rinsed off quickly and doesn’t get the time to reveal its full potential. On the other hand, salicylic acid serums can be used for targeted treatment and are generally less drying compared to most face washes with similar properties.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission from the purchases made through these links. We will only recommend products that we have personally used!
The Minimalist salicylic acid 2% serum stands out as it contains the highest concentration of this active ingredient and makes other big claims. Here’s an in-depth review:
Brand Claims
The salicylic acid serum by Minimalist claims to gently exfoliate your skin while reducing the occurrence of acne, reducing blackheads, and controlling excess oil production. While this already sounds like a dream come true for those with oily and combination skin types, the claims keep getting bigger.
The product supposedly penetrates the pore lining and “scoops” dirt and oil out of the skin’s upper layer. It also features a peptide, namely “Oligopeptide-10” that is antimicrobial and further helps fight off acne-causing p-bacteria.
This serum is infused with a green tea extract (ECGC) that serves as a powerful antioxidant, which again helps control breakouts and reduce inflammation. Minimalist claims that the salicylic acid content in this product is of the highest quality and is sourced from Germany.
Ingredients
Following is the ingredient list:
- Aqua
- Methylpropanediol
- Butylene Glycol
- Ethoxydiglycol
- Dimethyl Isosorbide
- Salicylic Acid
- Glycerin
- Marrubium Vulgare Extract
- Pentylene Glycol
- Polylysine
- Sodium Hyaluronate
- Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside
- Hydroxyethylcellulose
- Xanthan Gum, Lecithin
- Sclerotium Gum, Pullulan
- Phenoxyethanol
- Lactic Acid
- Isoceteth-20
- Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
- Ethylhexylglycerin
- Oligopeptide-10
- Sodium Hydroxide
Physical Impressions
The serum comes in the OG Minimalist packing – a glass serum bottle encased in two boxes. The outermost packaging is a white box with the brand name written simply in its signature style on the front. The back has the ingredient list, directions, and customer support information.
Its inner box is much more sturdy and features several famous quotes on all four sides – all highlighting the importance of truth and transparency.
Finally, the serum bottle is tinted black with the brand label and other important information. The dropper is also made of glass, adding to its premium feel.
How to Use
We applied the serum precisely according to the directions on the bottle.
The serum was used only in the PM on a cleansed face (we skipped the toner). We applied 2-3 drops directly on the face with the dropper and gently massaged it all over the face.
In the first two weeks, the product was used every other day. Following this, it was used daily in the PM for a month and followed up with a simple moisturizer.
Application Impression
The product is free of fragrance and added color. It is also non-comedogenic, slightly thicker than water, and feels very light on the skin.
If you have oily skin, the sticky feeling after application, unfortunately, remains for several hours. On dry skin, the tackiness goes away almost instantly.
Review Conditions
Following are the conditions under which this serum was tested:
- The product was used in the peak summers of a humid city, with temperatures touching 40 degrees Celsius on some days.
- We tested the serum on people with different skin types (oily, dry, and combination) and also different skin tones (fair to dark olive)
- All participants used a gentle cleanser before applying this serum and a simple moisturizer after.
- All participants were between the ages of 20 and 30.
Results and Review
After using the Minimalist Salicylic Acid 02% Serum for over two months, here’s what we think –
Pros
- Very Lightweight – feels like nothing on the skin
- Has a comfortable, watery texture and spreads easily
- Reduces the appearance of pores and oiliness within 3-4 weeks of application on most skin types (oily and combination)
- Affordable and high-quality ingredients
- Suitable for a wide range of skin types
- Fragrance-Free
- Non-comedogenic
- It contains antioxidants and peptides that help fight acne and reduce inflammation
- Very gentle and doesn’t irritate the skin
- Exfoliates and reduces sebum buildup
Cons
- Does not reduce pore appearance in all skin types
- Does not reduce or help with inflammation
- It can be a little too harsh for sensitive skin
- Dries skin out too much if used daily
Price and Miscellaneous Information
Our overall experience with the Minimalist Salicylic Acid 02% Serum has been positive and promising. The serum meets almost all of its promises but must be used with caution since overuse can cause a multitude of problems.
Online reviews about this serum have been mixed. While some see a reduction in blemishes, others call it a complete waste of money. In either case, a patch test is always advisable.
At the time of writing this article, the product was priced at Rs. 545. You can click here to check the price and purchase the product.
You can also buy the product on Amazon.
Take care of your skin.
Other Skin Care Reviews
Looking for skin care? Check these out:
