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Skin Clear With Salicylic Acid And Niacinamide Moisturiser

Skin Clear With Salicylic Acid And Niacinamide Moisturiser

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A lightweight, non-drying gel moisturiser formulated with salicylic acid and niacinamide to visibly reduce enlarged pores and improve uneven skin tone for clearer, healthier-looking blemish-prone skin.

Oil-Free Fragrance-Free Non-Comedogenic Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Cruelty-Free Fungal Acne Safe Minimalist Formula
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
0-1/5
Size
50ml
Formula
Gel
Target
Blemishes
pH Level
3.5-4.5
Ingredients
11 Only
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Non-Drying Hydration

Unlike harsh acne treatments, this gel moisturiser hydrates while treating blemishes without stripping skin of essential moisture.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Quick (30 sec)
Finish
Matte/Natural

Non-Drying Hydration

Unlike harsh acne treatments, this gel moisturiser hydrates while treating blemishes without stripping skin of essential moisture.

Minimalist Formula

Only 11 carefully selected ingredients reduce risk of irritation and sensitivity, perfect for reactive skin types.

Pore Refining Action

Salicylic acid penetrates pores to dissolve debris while niacinamide helps visibly reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.

Even Skin Tone

Niacinamide works to fade post-acne marks and reduce uneven pigmentation for a more uniform complexion.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains salicylic acid. Low concentrations (under 2%) are generally considered safe by ACOG, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

No oils, fatty acids, ferments, or esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for pityrosporum folliculitis.

Non-Comedogenic

Oil-free, silicone-free formula with comedogenic rating of 0-1. Will not clog pores or cause additional breakouts.

Sun Sensitivity Alert

Contains BHA which may increase sun sensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day and for one week after discontinuing use.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~4-5%Proven

A multi-functional vitamin that regulates sebum production, minimises pore appearance, brightens skin tone, and strengthens the skin barrier. One of the most well-researched skincare ingredients.

  • Sebum Control: Studies show 2-4% concentration effectively reduces oil production
  • Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis to strengthen skin barrier
  • Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation associated with acne
Safe to combine with most ingredients including vitamin C, retinol, and other acids.

Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5-2%Proven

Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris. The gold standard for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and preventing breakouts.

  • Pore Penetration: Oil-soluble structure allows it to work inside pores unlike AHAs
  • Anti-inflammatory: Related to aspirin, helps calm inflamed breakouts
  • FDA Approved: 0.5-2% concentration recognised as effective OTC acne treatment
May cause dryness or irritation initially. Start slowly and always use sunscreen.

Glycerin ~5-10%Proven

A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration levels without feeling heavy or greasy.

  • Humectant: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid at hydrating
  • Barrier Support: Helps repair and maintain skin barrier function
  • Antimicrobial: Has natural antimicrobial properties beneficial for acne-prone skin

Sodium HyaluronateProven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides surface-level hydration and plumping without clogging pores.

  • Hydration: Attracts and binds water to skin surface for plump appearance
  • Compatibility: Works well with all skin types and other active ingredients

11 ingredients

Aqua (Water), Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate

FREE FROM: Fragrances, Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Oils, Mineral Oil, Alcohol (Drying), Essential Oils, Dyes, Phthalates, Fermented Ingredients
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
This Product
5
SPF (AM)

Use morning and evening as your final moisturising step. In the AM, always follow with SPF 30+. Can be used alone or layered over serums.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse First

Start with clean skin using a gentle cleanser. Pat dry with a clean towel.

2

Apply to Face & Neck

Take a pea-sized amount and dot onto forehead, cheeks, chin, and neck. Gently massage in circular motions until fully absorbed.

3

Use Twice Daily

Apply every morning and evening as part of your skincare routine for best results.

4

Follow with SPF (AM)

Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning. BHA can increase sun sensitivity.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
  • You want to reduce visible pore size
  • You struggle with blackheads or mild acne
  • You prefer lightweight, non-greasy moisturisers
  • You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
  • You want a simple, minimal-ingredient formula
  • You're on a budget but want effective actives
  • You need an oil-free, fragrance-free option

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have very dry or dehydrated skin needing richer moisture
  • You have extremely sensitive or compromised barrier
  • You're pregnant/breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
  • You're already using multiple BHA products
  • You prefer cream or balm textures
  • You need intensive anti-aging benefits
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight gel absorbs quickly without adding shine. Salicylic acid and niacinamide work together to control excess sebum.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances oily T-zone while providing adequate hydration to drier areas without feeling heavy.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula with pore-clearing salicylic acid. Won't trigger new breakouts.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free and minimal ingredients reduce irritation risk. Start slowly and patch test first.

Dry Skin
Moderate

May not provide enough moisture alone. Consider layering over a hydrating serum or adding a richer cream on top.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Week 1-2

Initial Adjustment

Skin adjusts to salicylic acid. May experience mild purging as pores clear. Texture begins to feel smoother.

70% noticed softer texture
Week 3-4

Visible Pore Improvement

Pores appear visibly smaller and less congested. Blackheads begin to reduce. Oil production starts to balance.

65% saw reduced pore appearance
Week 5-8

Clearer Complexion

Noticeable reduction in breakouts and blemishes. Skin tone appears more even. Post-acne marks begin to fade.

75% reported fewer breakouts
Week 8+

Optimal Results

Full benefits visible with consistent use. Skin barrier strengthened, complexion clearer, and texture refined.

80% satisfied with overall results
09

Ratings by platform

18+ REVIEWS
Boots.com
4.3
Rating
18+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users wanted more hydration for drier skin types
SkinSort
4.2
Rating
21
Routines
Main complaint: Results take time; patience needed for full benefits
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Extremely affordable for effective active ingredients
  • Lightweight, non-greasy gel texture
  • Only 11 ingredients - minimal, clean formula
  • Fungal acne safe (no ferments or oils)
  • Fragrance-free and non-irritating
  • Visibly reduces pore appearance over time
  • Doesn't pill under makeup or sunscreen
  • Good value - 50ml lasts 2-3 months

Criticized

  • May not be hydrating enough for dry skin
  • Results require patience (4-8 weeks)
  • Limited availability outside UK
  • Basic packaging (tube design)
  • Not suitable for severe cystic acne
  • BHA may cause initial purging
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
£5.00
Budget Pick

Higher niacinamide concentration (10% vs ~4-5%) but no salicylic acid. Serum format requires separate moisturiser. Best for oil control and pore refinement.

70% Match
Niacinamide Oil Control Serum
£8.99
Budget Pick

Contains 10% niacinamide with hyaluronic acid for hydration. No salicylic acid. Need to layer with moisturiser for similar effect.

75% Match
Revolution Skincare 2% Salicylic Acid & Fruit Enzyme Serum
£6.00
Budget Pick

Contains 2% salicylic acid for stronger exfoliation but lacks niacinamide. Serum texture, not a standalone moisturiser.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Blemish Control Gel
Key Actives 2% SA + Niacinamide + Ceramides + AHA
Size 40ml
Ingredients 20+
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance Free
Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer
Key Actives Niacinamide + Ceramides + Antioxidants
Size 60ml
Ingredients 30+
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance Free
Effaclar Duo [+] SPF 30
Key Actives Niacinamide + LHA + Piroctone Olamine
Size 40ml
Ingredients 25+
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance Contains
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with screw cap. Recyclable packaging.

Travel Friendly

Yes - 50ml is under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

This product contains salicylic acid, which requires caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While topical salicylic acid in low concentrations (under 2%) is generally considered safe by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), we recommend consulting your healthcare provider or dermatologist before use. Avoid applying to large areas of the body during pregnancy.

Yes, this moisturiser is fungal acne safe. It contains no oils, fatty acids, fermented ingredients, or esters that feed Malassezia yeast. The formula relies on glycerin, propylene glycol, and sodium hyaluronate for hydration - all of which are safe for pityrosporum folliculitis. Additionally, salicylic acid can help by gently exfoliating and clearing blocked follicles.

The niacinamide in this product is compatible with most actives including vitamin C and retinol. However, since it already contains salicylic acid (BHA), be cautious about layering additional BHAs or strong AHAs to avoid over-exfoliation. If using retinol, apply this moisturiser first, wait a few minutes, then apply retinol. For sensitive skin, consider alternating active treatments on different days rather than layering.

This moisturiser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding shine, while the salicylic acid and niacinamide work to control oil and minimise pores. Sensitive skin types can also use it due to the fragrance-free, minimal formula - just introduce gradually. Dry skin types may need to layer a richer moisturiser on top.

Most users notice initial texture improvements within 1-2 weeks. Visible pore refinement and reduced oiliness typically appear at 3-4 weeks. For significant improvement in breakouts and skin tone, expect 6-8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Some users may experience initial purging in the first 2 weeks as salicylic acid clears congested pores - this is normal and temporary.

Apply as your moisturising step after cleansing, toning, and serums. In the morning: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Serum (optional) → This Moisturiser → Sunscreen SPF 30+. In the evening: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Treatment serums → This Moisturiser. Always use sunscreen during the day as salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity.

No, this moisturiser has a comedogenic rating of 0-1 out of 5, making it non-comedogenic. The oil-free, silicone-free formula contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the salicylic acid actively works to unclog pores by dissolving debris and excess sebum inside them. It's designed specifically for blemish-prone skin and should not cause breakouts.

The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO), meaning it remains effective and safe to use for 12 months after first opening. With twice-daily use, the 50ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain optimal product stability. Check for any changes in colour, smell, or texture before use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Boots Skin Clear Moisturiser delivers impressive value for money with its effective combination of salicylic acid and niacinamide in a minimalist, fungal acne-safe formula. It's an excellent choice for oily and acne-prone skin types seeking pore refinement and breakout control without breaking the bank. The lightweight gel texture won't feel heavy or greasy, making it perfect for daily use under makeup or sunscreen. While those with dry skin may need additional hydration, this British pharmacy staple proves you don't need expensive products for effective skincare. A smart, budget-friendly option for anyone battling blemishes and enlarged pores.

Browse related

By Concern Acne Brightening

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Salicylic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Sodium Hyaluronate
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Salicylic Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
63% 36%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 11 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
3 B
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
Hydrating
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS