EV
01 / 04 Cleansers
LACNE FOAM FACE WASH
The Science of Cleansers
LA PRISTINE LACNE FOAM FACE WASH (60ml). Foaming skin cleanser for controlling acne, blackheads and whiteheads
Drug Facts
⚑ Contains photosensitising ingredient(s) — pair with SPF 50+.
INGREDIENT · BETA-HYDROXY ACID (BHA), KERATOLYTIC AGENT
Salicylic Acid
also known as 2-hydroxybenzoic acid
Function
Keratolytic exfoliation and comedolytic agent with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
How it works
Salicylic acid penetrates the lipophilic stratum corneum to dissolve intercellular cement and promote desquamation of hyperkeratinized skin. Research indicates the ingredient may modulate sebum production and reduce comedone formation through keratin dissolution. Studies suggest it may help support skin barrier function normalization and have been shown to support adjunctive roles in combination protocols for various keratotic and inflammatory conditions. The mechanism involves both mechanical exfoliation and potential immunomodulatory effects when combined with debridement or occlusion strategies.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Salicylic acid may be utilized in Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types, though careful monitoring is essential given the elevated risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in individuals with skin of color. Research indicates patients with darker skin phototypes demonstrate heightened susceptibility to dyspigmentation following keratolytic treatments, particularly when combined with mechanical trauma or inadequate sun protection. In Kerala's tropical humid climate, occlusive formulations may increase absorption and irritation risk; lower starting concentrations (0.5-2%) are suggested with gradual titration. Sun protection (SPF 30+) is crucial post-treatment, as UVB exposure may exacerbate PIH risk. Discontinuation should be considered if erythema, irritation, or pigmentary changes develop.
Effective concentration
0.5–6 %w/w (optimal ~2%w/w)
Clinical evidence
Research indicates that salicylic acid, when combined with systematic mechanical debridement and occlusion therapy, may help support enhanced wart clearance with observable softening and size reduction within 6-12 weeks. Studies suggest that precise debridement coupled with adjunctive salicylic acid application may improve therapeutic penetration and support immune activation while maintaining safety through structured endpoint recognition.
Study authors not specified Advances in Skin & Wound Care. 2026. PubMed →
Evidence indicates that salicylic acid peels, when combined with modern tranexamic acid formulations in integrated skincare regimens, may help support improved pigmentary outcomes and skin texture improvements. Research suggests that pairing salicylic acid procedures with complementary topical agents may accelerate improvement in dyspigmentation and offer added benefits for skin radiance.
Study authors not specified Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Systematic review findings indicate that topical salicylic acid, particularly when combined with complementary ingredients such as L-carnitine and licochalcone-A, may help support reduction in acne lesions and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Research suggests synergistic formulations may enhance efficacy in management of multiple skin concerns simultaneously.
Study authors not specified Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 2026. PubMed →
Literature review indicates that topical salicylic acid has been shown as a conventional therapeutic option for aquagenic palmoplantar keratoderma management. Research suggests it may help support symptom mitigation in keratotic disorders, though efficacy varies by patient and may require combination approaches with barrier agents and other adjunctive therapies.
Study authors not specified Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Research review emphasizes that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk is significantly elevated in Fitzpatrick IV-VI individuals, highlighting the need for careful consideration when utilizing keratolytic agents. Studies indicate that prompt diagnosis and management, including judicious use of keratolytic treatments alongside protective measures, may help support improved outcomes and quality of life in individuals with skin of color.
Study authors not specified Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 2026. PubMed →
Pairs well with
Niacinamide · Centella Asiatica Extract · Azelaic Acid · Glycolic Acid · L-Carnitine · Tranexamic Acid · Licochalcone A · Sunscreen agents (mineral and chemical)
Avoid combining with
Benzoyl Peroxide (may be less stable in combination) · Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid, pH-dependent interaction) · Strong Retinoids (increased irritation risk) · Aluminium Chloride (may increase keratolytic effect excessively)
INGREDIENT · ALPHA HYDROXY ACID (AHA), CHEMICAL EXFOLIANT
Glycolic Acid
also known as Glycolic Acid, Hydroxyacetic Acid
Function
Chemical exfoliant; may help support skin renewal and surface keratin dissolution
How it works
Glycolic acid functions as a small-molecular-weight alpha hydroxy acid that may help weaken intracellular bonds within the stratum corneum through pH-dependent hydrolysis. Research indicates the ingredient's permeability and efficacy are significantly influenced by pH dynamics, with effectiveness constrained above its pKa of 3.83. Studies suggest glycolic acid may facilitate enhanced exfoliation when formulated with novel delivery systems that optimize ion-pairing and pH stability. The mechanism involves both chemical dissolution of keratin and potential stimulation of dermal turnover at physiologically tolerable concentrations.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Glycolic acid carries heightened risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types, particularly in Indian populations with darker melanin distribution. Kerala's tropical, humid climate and intense UV exposure (high UVA/UVB index) necessitate strict concurrent photoprotection (SPF 50+ PA+++++) and may require lower concentration initiation (4-6%) with extended adaptation periods. Recommended use restricted to evening application with gradual frequency titration (2-3 times weekly initially), avoiding concurrent use during monsoon or high-humidity seasons when occlusion-related reactions increase. Pre-treatment skin barrier assessment is essential; compromised skin warrants deferral. Patients should receive explicit counseling on mandatory sunscreen compliance and discontinuation at first signs of erythema or dyschromia.
Effective concentration
4–15 % w/w (optimal ~8% w/w)
Clinical evidence
Research indicates that chemical exfoliation efficacy of glycolic acid is significantly limited by pH-dependent permeability reduction above the ingredient's pKa of 3.83, constraining formulation development. Studies suggest that novel biphasic delivery systems utilizing ion-pairing mechanisms may help enhance glycolic acid's exfoliating performance through optimization of pH stability and skin penetration. The findings underscore the critical importance of pH formulation in determining glycolic acid efficacy in topical skincare products.
Not specified in abstract Skin Research and Technology. 2026. PubMed →
Pairs well with
Niacinamide · Ceramides · Hyaluronic Acid · Panthenol · Centella Asiatica Extract · Allantoin
Avoid combining with
Retinol and Retinoids · Salicylic Acid and other BHAs (if same application) · Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) · Strong oxidizing agents