Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Tonic
Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Tonic
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective BHA exfoliating tonic formulated with 1% Salicylic Acid and 1% Niacinamide to help unclog pores, reduce blemishes, and improve uneven skin tone and texture for a clearer, brighter complexion.
Pore-Clearing BHA
1% Salicylic Acid penetrates into pores to dissolve excess sebum and debris, helping to prevent blackheads and breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPore-Clearing BHA
1% Salicylic Acid penetrates into pores to dissolve excess sebum and debris, helping to prevent blackheads and breakouts.
Brightening Niacinamide
1% Vitamin B3 works to improve uneven skin tone, reduce redness, and enhance overall complexion radiance.
Budget-Friendly
Exceptional value at under £4 for 200ml, making effective BHA exfoliation accessible for daily use without breaking the bank.
Ethical Formulation
100% vegan and cruelty-free formula developed and manufactured in the UK since 1954 with sustainably sourced ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% Salicylic Acid. While under the 2% limit considered safe by ACOG, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Generally considered safe at this low concentration. Avoid applying to chest area where baby may come into direct contact.
NOT safe for fungal acne. Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen pityrosporum folliculitis.
Dermatologically tested with gentle 1% BHA concentration. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.
BHA may increase photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ moisturizer during the day when using this product.
Oil-free, fragrance-free formula rates 1/5 on comedogenic scale. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 1%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble and can penetrate deep into pores to exfoliate, dissolve sebum plugs, and reduce inflammation. Known for its anti-acne and anti-bacterial properties.
- Mechanism: Breaks down keratin proteins and dissolves intercellular bonds, promoting cell turnover
- FDA Recognition: 0.5-2% concentration recognized for OTC acne treatment
- Additional Benefits: Anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin; calms redness
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 1%Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar with clinically proven benefits for blemish-prone skin, hyperpigmentation, and skin barrier repair.
- Sebum Regulation: Helps balance oil production in oily skin types
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer to reduce dark spots and uneven tone
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide production for stronger skin barrier
Allantoin 0.1-0.5%Proven
A soothing and skin-conditioning agent that promotes healing, reduces irritation, and helps protect the skin barrier during exfoliation.
- Soothing: Calms irritation that may occur from BHA exfoliation
- Cell Regeneration: Stimulates fibroblast activity and skin renewal
- Moisturizing: Helps maintain skin hydration levels
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) TraceProven
A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that attracts moisture and helps repair the skin barrier while reducing irritation from active ingredients.
- Hydration: Humectant that draws moisture to the skin
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces irritation from other ingredients
- Barrier Repair: Promotes lipid production for healthier skin barrier
16 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Panthenol, Alcohol, Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract, Trisodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse daily after cleansing on clean, dry skin. Can be used morning and evening. Always follow with SPF during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with freshly cleansed skin. For best results, use with Creightons Salicylic Acid Foaming Clay Cleanser or your preferred gentle cleanser.
Apply with Cotton Pad
Soak a cotton pad with the tonic and gently sweep across face and neck. Avoid the delicate eye area and any broken skin.
Let It Absorb
Allow the product to fully absorb for 30-60 seconds before applying subsequent skincare products. No need to rinse.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your serum and/or moisturizer. During the day, always finish with SPF 30+ to protect photosensitized skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You want to start using BHA but have sensitive skin
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- You're on a budget but want effective exfoliation
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare products
- You want a simple, no-fuss daily toner
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You need stronger 2% salicylic acid for severe acne
- You are pregnant (consult your doctor first)
- You have very dry skin that's easily irritated
- You're looking for anti-aging benefits
- You want a product with additional antioxidants
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. BHA penetrates oily pores to control sebum and prevent breakouts. Lightweight formula absorbs instantly without adding shine.
Works well on T-zone congestion while being gentle enough for drier cheek areas. Can be used all over or targeted to oily zones only.
Helps with mild-moderate acne and blackheads. For severe acne, consider a stronger 2% BHA formula or prescription treatment.
The 1% concentration is gentler than typical BHAs. Dermatologically tested and fragrance-free. Patch test recommended first.
Use sparingly (2-3x weekly) as BHA can be drying. Always follow with a rich moisturizer and monitor for over-exfoliation.
Basic exfoliation benefits, but lacks anti-aging actives like retinol or vitamin C. Better suited as part of a comprehensive routine.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Initial Adjustment
Skin begins adjusting to BHA exfoliation. Some may experience mild purging as congestion rises to the surface. Skin feels smoother after each application.
70% notice smoother textureVisible Improvement
Blackheads begin to reduce, pores appear cleaner, and minor breakouts start to clear. Skin looks brighter and more even-toned.
85% see reduced blemishesClearer Complexion
Consistent use shows cumulative benefits: fewer breakouts, refined pore appearance, improved texture, and brighter overall complexion.
100% reported clearer skin*Ratings by platform
508+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredible value for money (under £4 for 200ml)
- Gentle enough for daily use and sensitive skin
- Effectively clears blackheads and clogged pores
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating formula
- Dermatologically tested and UK-made quality
- Vegan and cruelty-free certification
- Doesn't leave skin feeling stripped or tight
- Works well as makeup prep step
Criticized
- 1% BHA may be too weak for severe acne
- NOT suitable for fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- Slight chemical/medicinal smell
- Results take 4+ weeks to become noticeable
- No antioxidants or anti-aging benefits
- Basic packaging - feels less premium
- Not widely available outside UK retailers
- Needs pairing with strong SPF for daytime use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 2% salicylic acid concentration for stronger exfoliation. Serum format rather than tonic. More potent but may be more drying for sensitive skin.
Contains 2% salicylic acid with zinc for extra oil control. Serum texture. More targeted for oily, acne-prone skin. Lacks niacinamide.
Similar tonic format with 2% BHA. Contains witch hazel which may be drying. More affordable option with stronger concentration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed. Room temperature storage is fine.
Plastic bottle with flip-top or screw cap. Simple, functional design. Transfer to dark glass bottle if preferred.
200ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits. Decant into smaller container for air travel or purchase travel-size option.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis tonic contains 1% Salicylic Acid, which is below the 2% threshold generally considered safe during pregnancy by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid at this concentration is generally considered safe as it doesn't significantly absorb into breast milk, but avoid applying to the chest area where baby may come into direct contact.
No, this product is NOT safe for fungal acne (pityrosporum/malassezia folliculitis). It contains Polysorbate 20, which breaks down into fatty acids that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution which has a fungal-acne-safe formula.
Yes, but with caution. Salicylic acid can be used with these ingredients, but combining multiple actives increases the risk of irritation. We recommend: (1) Start slowly when introducing new combinations; (2) Consider using BHA and retinol on alternating nights; (3) Niacinamide in this formula works well with most actives; (4) Avoid using with other BHAs to prevent over-exfoliation; (5) Always use SPF during the day as these ingredients increase sun sensitivity.
This tonic is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 1% salicylic acid concentration makes it gentle enough for sensitive skin (though patch testing is recommended). It's also ideal for skincare beginners who want to introduce BHA into their routine. Those with very dry skin should use sparingly (2-3 times weekly) and follow with a rich moisturizer. It may be too gentle for those with severe acne who may need a stronger 2% BHA product.
Results vary by individual, but typically: Week 1 - skin feels smoother immediately after use; Week 2-3 - visible reduction in blackheads and minor breakouts; Week 4+ - noticeable improvement in overall skin clarity, texture, and brightness. Brand studies show 100% of users reported clearer skin and 93% saw improved texture after 4 weeks of consistent use. Be patient and consistent - this is a gentle formula designed for long-term results rather than overnight transformation.
Use this tonic as step 2 in your routine, immediately after cleansing: (1) Cleanser → (2) This Tonic → (3) Serum → (4) Moisturizer → (5) Sunscreen (AM only). Apply to clean, dry skin using a cotton pad and sweep across face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Let it absorb for 30-60 seconds before applying your next product. Can be used morning and evening, but always follow with SPF 30+ during the day.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores for most skin types. In fact, as a BHA product, it's specifically designed to help unclog pores by dissolving sebum and debris. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and fragrance-free, which further reduces the risk of pore congestion. However, individual skin may react differently - if you notice increased breakouts, discontinue use.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal effectiveness and freshness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed to prevent contamination. At 200ml, with daily use (approximately 2-3ml per application), the bottle should last 2-3 months.
Verdict: Creightons Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Tonic delivers excellent value for budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts seeking a gentle daily BHA exfoliant. The 1% salicylic acid combined with 1% niacinamide effectively targets blackheads, uneven texture, and mild breakouts without the irritation of stronger formulas. It's dermatologically tested, vegan, and fragrance-free - impressive for the under-£4 price point. However, it's NOT suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20, and those with severe acne may need a stronger 2% BHA. Best for: oily/combination skin types new to acids, budget skincare routines, and those seeking gentle daily exfoliation from a trusted UK brand.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|