Betaine salicylate is a keratolytic beta hydroxy acid (BHA), similar to salicylic acid, which resurfaces the skin, improving skin tone and texture. Unlike salicylic acid though, betaine salicylate is surprisingly gentle on the skin.
While AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHAs both break down the intercellular glue that holds skin debris to the surface, BHAs are stronger, more thoroughly removing the uppermost layer of the dermis. However, betaine salicylate is a weaker acid than its fellow BHAs.
Research has indicated that betaine salicylate may also improve collagen production, hyperpigmentation and intracellular water retention. Most pharmaceutical betaine salicylate is also vegan-friendly, thanks to those sugar beet plants mentioned earlier.
Like other BHAs, betaine salicylate breaks down the glue which traps dead and damaged skin cells on the surface of the skin. This not only improves the skin’s texture and appearance but encourages healthy new cells to grow in their place.
Due to its keratolytic (peeling) effect, betaine salicylate is even used in the removal of epidermal defects such as warts and calluses. But for normal and oily facial skin, the everyday keratolytic effect of betaine salicylate reduces the occurrence of blackheads and stops the formation of the clogged pores which can lead to acne.