The Ingredient: Salicylic acid
The Product: Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil ($80)
One of the granddaddies of blemish fighters, salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is perfect for those trying to get rid of blackheads and whiteheads. Because it works on dissolving the gunk that holds dead skin cells together, it not only clears away the surface buildup but also dislodges everything inside the pore. It unfortunately doesn't have much of an effect on cystic bumps, although it does provide some anti-inflammatory aid that can bring down the redness and swelling of a zit.
Sunday Riley has the market cornered on treatment oils (ahem, Luna Sleeping Night Oil), and this latest launch for acne-prone skin does not disappoint. It has 1.5 percent salicylic acid (that's a lot) that works in tandem with skin-clearing tea tree and black cumin oils to erase all traces of skin-clogging debris. The addition of milk thistle and cucumber seed oil keeps skin soft and hydrated while also smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
