BHA Blackhead Power Liquid.

"The active ingredient in this one is betaine salicylate, not salicylic acid. They're two completely different molecules. Betaine salicylate is derived from salicylic acid and from sugar beet, and it's a gentler, milder form of BHA. It's listed as 4% BHA, but you need roughly double the concentration of betaine salicylate to get a similar effect to salicylic acid, so 4% betaine salicylate is equivalent to about 2% salicylic acid in exfoliation strength. The marketing is technically accurate, it does contain 4% BHA, but it's not the same BHA, and the way it's marketed makes it easy to assume you're comparing the same molecule at different price points when you're not. This one is for you if you're newer to chemical exfoliants, your skin gets reactive or sensitive easily, you've tried BHAs before and found them too harsh, or you want something you can work up to using more regularly without the intensity of a true salicylic acid. It also has niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate built in for hydration and barrier support alongside the exfoliation, which is a genuinely smart formula decision, especially for anyone whose skin leans dry or combination. Price per use, it actually stretches further because you use less product per application and the bottle lasts longer, so if budget matters and your skin leans sensitive, this isn't a compromise option, it's genuinely the smarter buy for your skin type. It's also a safer choice if you're allergic to aspirin."

"The COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid has been a favorite of mine for more than five years. It contains betaine salicylate instead of salicylic acid, which gives you a really nice gentle alternative in a formulation that feels less sticky and a lot more hydrating, kind of just like a normal toner. You should start using this two to three times a week, but if you use chemical exfoliants often you can use it every single day or every other day."

"This is the BHA Blackhead Power Liquid and I was really surprised by this one. It has four percent betaine salicylate, which is the gentler ingredient they're calling BHA now, not the same as salicylic acid. If you have more reactive or acne prone reactive skin like me this might actually be a really good option. It has a little more body to it than a lot of COSRX's watery toners, which makes it easier to work with, you don't need a cotton pad. It also has willow bark in it, which has anti inflammatory properties rather than being an exfoliant like salicylic acid. It's gentle and straightforward, and gentle can be the perfect fit."