La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Serum — 30 ml, LHA + Glycolic for Pore Refining & Acne‑Prone Skin

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Treatment is a lightweight serum formulated to unclog and visibly reduce enlarged pores while helping clear acne blemishes and fade post-acne marks.

This fragrance-free, non-comedogenic serum blends glycolic acid, LHA (a salicylic acid derivative) and hyaluronic fragments to refine texture, promote gentle surface renewal, and support a clearer, more radiant complexion for oily or blemish-prone skin. Designed for gradual home use, it pairs with daytime sunscreen and can be introduced slowly to reduce irritation risk.

How does this serum help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores?

The formula uses micro-exfoliating LHA and glycolic acid to loosen and remove dead skin cells and excess oil that can stretch and darken pores. As surface build-up is cleared, pores look tighter and skin texture becomes smoother.

• Capryloyl salicylic acid (LHA) for targeted, controlled micro-exfoliation.
• Glycolic acid to accelerate skin cell turnover and refine surface texture.
• Non-greasy, fast-absorbing base avoids pore-clogging residues.

Will this serum help with active acne and post-acne marks?

The combination of salicylic derivatives and glycolic acid addresses the causes of blemishes—excess oil and clogged pores—while promoting surface renewal to reduce the visibility of marks over time. It’s intended as part of a broader acne care routine rather than a single-step cure.

• Unclogs pores to help prevent new breakouts.
• Speeds skin renewal to fade discoloration and post-acne texture.
• Non-comedogenic formula suitable for oily, blemish-prone skin.

How should I introduce Effaclar serum into my skincare routine safely?

Start slowly to let your skin adapt: apply only every other evening for the first week, then once nightly thereafter. Use daytime SPF 15 or higher while using the product and for a week after due to AHA-related sun sensitivity.

• Evening use recommended; daytime only with sunscreen (broad spectrum SPF 15+).
• Use 2–3 drops, gently massage onto cleansed face, avoiding the eye area.
• Not recommended for very sensitive skin; discontinue if severe irritation occurs.

What active ingredients are in the serum and what do they do?

The key actives are LHA (a lipo-hydroxy acid), glycolic acid (AHA), and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid. Together they exfoliate at the surface and slightly deeper layers while supporting hydration and skin resilience.

• LHA (capryloyl salicylic acid): targeted exfoliation and pore renewal.
• Glycolic acid: increases cell turnover to smooth tone and texture.
• Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid: lightweight hydration to prevent dryness during exfoliation.

Who is this for: This serum suits people with oily or combination skin who notice enlarged, visible pores, rough texture, dullness, fine lines, or lingering post-acne marks and who can tolerate AHA/BHA active ingredients. It is formulated fragrance- and paraben-free and non-comedogenic, making it a practical choice for those seeking targeted pore refinement and clearer skin; however, it's not recommended for highly sensitive or severely inflamed skin. Always pair with sunscreen and follow the gradual introduction guidance for best results.

Ingredients

WATER • ALCOHOL DENAT. • PROPANEDIOL • GLYCOLIC ACID • NIACINAMIDE • DIMETHYL ISOSORBIDE • PENTYLENE GLYCOL • SODIUM HYDROXIDE • PPG-26-BUTETH-26 • HYDROXYETHYLPIPERAZINE ETHANE SULFONIC ACID • CITRIC ACID • PEG-30 GLYCERYL COCOATE • PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL • PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL • CAPRYLOYL SALICYLIC ACID • BIOSACCHARIDE GUM-1 • MALTODEXTRIN • PHYTIC ACID • POLYQUATERNIUM-10 • FRAGRANCE