Me+ Salicylic Acid with Cica Booster
Me+ Salicylic Acid with Cica Booster
Product Description
A targeted blemish-fighting booster serum combining 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) with soothing Centella Asiatica (Cica) to unclog pores, reduce breakouts, and calm redness and irritation โ all in a lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid formula.
โจ Texture & Feel
Deep Pore Cleansing
2% Salicylic Acid penetrates oil-filled pores to dissolve sebum plugs, blackheads, and dead skin cell buildup from within.
Cica Soothing Complex
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract calms redness and irritation, helping offset the exfoliating action of BHA for a balanced approach.
Anti-Inflammatory Action
Bisabolol and Allantoin work alongside BHA's aspirin-like anti-inflammatory properties to reduce blemish swelling and discomfort.
Hydration Support
Glycerin and Betaine act as humectants to attract and retain moisture, preventing the dryness that often accompanies acid exfoliation.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains 2% Salicylic Acid. ACOG considers low-dose topical BHA (โค2%) generally safe in pregnancy, but consult your doctor before use. Avoid high-concentration peels or leave-on products in large amounts.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and PPG-26-Buteth-26, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have pityrosporum folliculitis.
Lightweight liquid formula with no heavy oils or waxes. Very unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Denatured alcohol is the second ingredient, which helps the formula absorb quickly but may cause dryness or irritation on sensitive or compromised skin barriers.
Free from common allergens, added fragrances, parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Minimal risk of contact sensitisation.
While BHA itself does not increase photosensitivity, Superdrug recommends using SPF during the day after application. New skin revealed by exfoliation is more vulnerable to UV damage.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
โ๏ธ Salicylic Acid 2% Proven
A gold-standard BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate inside pores to dissolve sebum, dead cells, and debris. It exfoliates both the skin surface and within the pore lining, while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits similar to aspirin.
- FDA-Recognised: 0.5โ2% salicylic acid is approved as an OTC acne treatment by the U.S. FDA.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, penetrates sebum-filled pores to dissolve plugs and reduce congestion.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Related to aspirin, it calms inflamed breakouts and reduces redness.
๐ฟ Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract <1% Proven
Known as Cica or Tiger Grass, this plant extract is renowned in K-beauty for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports skin barrier repair, stimulates collagen synthesis, and calms irritation โ making it an ideal partner for exfoliating acids.
- Barrier Repair: Studies show Centella Asiatica helps restore skin barrier function and improve hydration.
- Collagen Boost: Active compounds (madecassoside, asiaticoside) stimulate collagen production for skin healing.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and inflammation from blemishes and irritation.
๐ Bisabolol <1% Proven
A natural compound derived from chamomile, Bisabolol is a potent skin-soothing agent. It helps calm irritation, reduce redness, and support the skin's healing process โ particularly beneficial in formulas containing active exfoliants.
- Anti-Irritant: Clinically shown to reduce skin irritation and inflammation.
- Healing Support: Promotes wound healing and skin recovery after exfoliation.
๐งด Allantoin <1% Proven
A skin-conditioning powerhouse that moisturises, soothes, and promotes cell regeneration. Allantoin helps repair the skin barrier and reduce irritation caused by active ingredients like salicylic acid.
- Cell Renewal: Promotes skin cell turnover and wound healing.
- Barrier Repair: Helps maintain skin hydration and supports the moisture barrier.
๐ง Glycerin + Betaine ~2โ4% Proven
A dual humectant system that attracts and binds water to the skin's upper layers. Glycerin is one of the most effective moisturisers available, while Betaine (derived from sugar beet) acts as an osmolyte to maintain cell hydration balance.
- Glycerin: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than hyaluronic acid and AHAs.
- Betaine: An osmolyte that protects skin cells from dehydration stress, maintaining moisture balance.
17 ingredients
Aqua, Alcohol Denat., Propylene Glycol, Betaine, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Allantoin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citric Acid, Bisabolol, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use once daily, ideally in the evening. Apply after cleansing and toning, before serums and moisturiser. Always follow with SPF during the day.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse Your Skin
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil. Pat skin dry with a clean towel.
Apply a Few Drops
Dispense 2โ3 drops onto clean fingertips. Focus application on blemished areas, blackheads, or congested zones.
Pat Gently Into Skin
Lightly press and pat the product into your skin. Avoid rubbing or dragging. Let it absorb fully before moving on.
Follow with Moisturiser & SPF
Layer your hydrating serum or moisturiser on top. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin with frequent breakouts
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want a targeted spot treatment rather than a full-face exfoliant
- You prefer a budget-friendly BHA option from the UK high street
- You need a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
- You want a BHA paired with soothing Cica to reduce irritation
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) โ this product contains PEG ingredients that may trigger flare-ups
- Your skin barrier is already compromised or very sensitive โ the alcohol denat. content may irritate
- You need a larger volume product for full-face daily use
- You have very dry skin and prefer a hydrating, cream-based BHA
- You want a completely alcohol-free formula
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Lightweight liquid absorbs instantly, controls excess sebum, and unclogs oily pores without adding shine.
2% BHA is the gold standard for acne. Penetrates pores, dissolves plugs, and reduces inflamed blemishes. Cica soothes redness.
Great for targeting the oily T-zone. Apply only on congested areas; skip drier cheeks to avoid over-exfoliation.
The Cica and Bisabolol help, but alcohol denat. as the second ingredient may cause irritation. Patch test first and start slowly.
Can work as a spot treatment, but the alcohol content and BHA may be too drying for all-over use. Always follow with a rich moisturiser.
๐ Results Timeline
Initial Purging & Pore Clearing
Some users may experience a brief purging phase as trapped debris is brought to the surface. Existing blemishes may temporarily appear worse before improving. Pores start to feel cleaner.
60% noticed cleaner-feeling skinReduced Breakouts & Smoother Texture
Active breakouts begin to clear noticeably. Skin texture feels smoother as BHA dissolves dead cell buildup. Blackheads appear less visible. Redness starts to calm.
70% noticed fewer new breakoutsClearer, More Refined Skin
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Pores appear minimised, blemishes heal faster, and skin tone looks more even. The soothing Cica benefits become more visible with consistent use.
80% noticed clearer complexionMaintained Clear Skin
With consistent daily use, breakouts are significantly reduced. Skin maintains a clearer, smoother appearance. Post-inflammatory marks begin to fade with continued exfoliation and turnover.
85% reported sustained improvementโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Effective 2% BHA concentration โ FDA-recognised strength for acne
- Soothing Cica + Bisabolol combo reduces redness alongside exfoliation
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free minimal formula (only 17 ingredients)
- Very affordable compared to premium BHA serums like Paula's Choice
- Lightweight liquid absorbs almost instantly with no residue
- Easy to find on the UK high street at Superdrug stores
- Works well as a targeted spot treatment for blemish-prone areas
โ Criticized
- Alcohol Denat. is the second ingredient โ can be drying and irritating for sensitive skin
- Small 30ml bottle may not last long with daily use
- Not fungal acne safe due to PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- Cica and Bisabolol concentrations are quite low (below 1%)
- Some users report no visible improvement compared to cheaper alternatives
- Not widely available outside the UK
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 2% salicylic acid concentration in a simpler formula. No Cica or soothing agents, but also no alcohol denat. More basic but equally effective at unclogging pores. Fungal acne safe.
Another UK high street option with 2% BHA. Slightly different texture and includes witch hazel. Some users report a soapy texture and added fragrance, which this Me+ product avoids.
Contains salicylic acid with ceramides for barrier support instead of Cica. Richer formula with more hydrating ingredients. Better for dry-combination skin but lacks the lightweight feel.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Me+ Salicylic Acid with Cica Booster
ยฃ8.00The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
ยฃ5.50Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
ยฃ29.00Eucerin DermoPure Triple Action Serum
ยฃ18.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not store in direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Frosted glass dropper bottle with screw-cap pipette for precise application
Yes โ 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. This product contains 2% Salicylic Acid, which is at the maximum concentration generally considered acceptable for topical use during pregnancy by ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists). The systemic absorption from topical application is very low. However, some healthcare providers advise avoiding salicylic acid entirely during pregnancy as a precaution. Always consult your doctor or midwife before using any BHA products while pregnant or breastfeeding.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and PPG-26-Buteth-26, which are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast and may worsen pityrosporum folliculitis. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution or another BHA product that avoids PEG compounds and fatty acid esters.
Be cautious when layering multiple active exfoliants. Avoid using this BHA booster at the same time as AHA products (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or retinol to prevent over-exfoliation and barrier damage. You can alternate โ use BHA in the evening and vitamin C in the morning. If combining with retinol, use them on alternate nights. If you want to use both AHA and BHA, try them on different days until your skin builds tolerance.
This product is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight liquid formula with 2% BHA is ideal for dissolving excess sebum and clearing clogged pores. Combination skin types can also benefit by applying it only to oily or congested zones (T-zone). Those with dry or sensitive skin should use it sparingly as a spot treatment, as the alcohol denat. content may cause dryness.
Most users report visible improvement within 2โ4 weeks of consistent daily use. Initial purging (a brief increase in breakouts) may occur in the first 1โ2 weeks as trapped debris surfaces. Significant skin clarity and reduced breakouts are typically noticeable by week 6โ8. Full results including minimised pores and smoother texture generally appear after 3 months of regular use.
Apply as Step 3 after cleansing and toning, but before serums and moisturiser. Superdrug recommends applying a few drops focusing on blemished areas, once a day. Most community routines place it as the third step. Use it in the evening to allow overnight exfoliation, and always apply SPF during the day.
No, this product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is a lightweight liquid formula without heavy oils, waxes, or silicones that typically clog pores. In fact, the 2% salicylic acid actively works to unclog pores. Glycerin (comedogenic rating 0) and betaine are the main humectants and are non-comedogenic. It is very unlikely to clog pores when used as directed.
The product has an estimated Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 1โ2 months when used daily as a targeted spot treatment (2โ3 drops per application). For best results and product integrity, use within the recommended timeframe after first opening.
Verdict: Me+ Salicylic Acid with Cica Booster is a solid, budget-friendly BHA serum that delivers an effective 2% salicylic acid concentration paired with soothing Centella Asiatica. It excels as an affordable spot treatment for oily and acne-prone skin, and the minimal 17-ingredient formula is refreshingly straightforward. However, the high position of Alcohol Denat. in the ingredients list and the lack of fungal acne safety hold it back from being a universal recommendation. If you have resilient oily skin and want an accessible BHA from the UK high street, this is excellent value. For sensitive skin or fungal acne concerns, consider The Ordinary or Paula's Choice alternatives instead.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging ยซpromisesยป it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|