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Breakout Control Acne Treatment Facial Lotion claims to clear acne via salicylic acid and "Pine Bark Extract". Unfortunately, the formula's pH is slightly too high for the salicylic acid to function as effectively as it could for this benefit. As for the pine bark extract, it doesn't appear on the ingredient list, but even if it did, it's an iffy ingredient for any skin condition including acne, due to its potential to aggravate skin.
Adding to the issues, the formula contains potentially skin-aggravating fragrance (which is among the last things acne-prone skin needs; see More Info to learn why).
That's a shame considering this lotion contains a decent amount of niacinamide (which can help visibly improve the appearance of enlarged pores), and soothing aloe.
All things considered, you're better off skipping over this product and going for a salicylic acid (BHA) treatment that has the right pH to be as effective as possible without any of the drawbacks fragrant ingredients can cause.
- Contains beneficial niacinamide and aloe.
- Contains 1.5% salicylic acid.
- Salicylic acid at this pH level is not as effective as it could be for acne control.
- Contains potentially skin-aggravating fragrance.
Whether you can see it on the surface of skin or not, using harsh, skin-aggravating ingredients (which includes fragrance) is a serious problem for all skin types but uniquely so for those with oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin.
Research has clearly established that when skin is aggravated the oil gland is stimulated by nerve endings to make more oil creating a perfect environment for blemishes, breakouts, and clogged pores to get worse.
Using a product that's gentle is without question the best approach to taking care of your skin; doing otherwise hurts your skin.
It's also vitally important to use appropriate products that research has shown are beneficial for oily skin and blemishes. The two gold standard ingredients are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
References for this information:
Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology, January 2016, pages 25-30
Journal of European Dermatology and Venerology, May 2014, pages 527-532
Journal of Dermatology, May 2012, pages 433-438
Dermato-Endocrinology, January-March 2011, pages 41–49.
Experimental Dermatology, October 2009, pages 821-832
European Journal of Dermatology, September-October 2002, pages 422-427
Journal of the American Medical Association, August 2004, page 764
Dermatology, January 2003, pages 17-23
Kiehl's At-A-Glance
Kiehls has been around for quite some time, with its origins in a New York City-based pharmacy established in 1851. The brand is perhaps best known for its apothecary-style packaging and its best-selling (and celebrity favorite) Lip Balm #1.
Though the brand claims its products are made with the finest naturally-derived ingredients, most of its formulations include synthetically-produced ingredients as well. Like most skincare companies the line contains both good and not-so-great offerings; Kiehls main misstep is that many of its products contain fragrance ingredients that could irritate skin, particularly sensitive skin.
Note: Kiehl's is categorized as a brand that tests on animals because its products are sold in China. Although Kiehl's does not conduct animal testing for its products sold elsewhere, the Chinese government requires imported cosmetics be tested on animals, so foreign companies retailing there must comply. This requirement is why some brands state that they dont test on animals unless required by law. Animal rights organizations consider cosmetic companies retailed in China to be brands that test on animals, and so does the Beautypedia Research Team.
For more information about Kiehl's, call (800) 543-4572 or visit www.kiehls.com.
About the Experts
The Beautypedia team consists of skin care and makeup experts personally trained by the original Cosmetics Cop and best-selling beauty author, Paula Begoun. We’re fascinated by skin care and makeup products and thrilled when they meet or exceed our expectations, but we’re also disappointed when they fail to perform as claimed, are wildly overpriced, or contain ingredients scientific research has proven can hurt skin.
Our mission has always been to help you find the best products for your skin, no matter your budget or preferences. Beautypedia’s thorough and insightful reviews cut through the hype and provide reliable recommendations for all ages, skin types, and skin tones.
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