Dr.Althea 2% Salicylic Acid Clear Pad

Values: 100% Genuine (Adilsons policy) • FA-Conditional* • Halal-Friendly* • Vegan-Friendly*

*FA-Conditional: one ingredient (Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate) is a fatty-acid-type ester that some fungal-acne-prone users react to -- see Sensory and Chemical Profile below. Halal/Vegan are self-assessed, not third-party certified -- see Conscious and Permissible Formulation below.

The feeling this addresses: that specific frustration of washing your face twice and still finding new bumps by evening -- the sense that your skin is "dirty" again within hours. That is sebum re-accumulating in pores that are already partially blocked, not a hygiene failure, and it is exactly what a BHA is designed to solve at the pore level rather than the surface.

PIH vs PIE: this product does not target dark brown/black post-acne marks (PIH -- responds to niacinamide, Vitamin C, arbutin, tranexamic acid) or red/pink post-acne marks (PIE -- responds to centella, azelaic acid, time). Its job is upstream of both: clearing the pore blockage that causes the breakout in the first place, so fewer new marks form.

Pros: a genuine 2% BHA (above most competitor toner pads' 0.3-1% range) • a real multi-acid blend (BHA + AHA + PHA) rather than BHA alone • single-pad, no-rinse application • pre-dosed, so you cannot over-apply the way you can with a dropper.

Caveats: contains Parfum (not fragrance-free) • contains Menthol and Menthoxypropanediol, which create a cooling sensation some sensitive users find irritating rather than pleasant • not suitable as a first-ever active for someone new to exfoliation • real pad count/volume not confirmed on Adilsons' own listing.

Classification: YELLOW -- 14+ with guidance. A brand-stated 2% Salicylic Acid is within the concentration range used in mainstream OTC acne treatments commonly marketed to teenagers (comparable in strength to well-known 2% salicylic-acid pad products sold over the counter), not a prescription-strength or clinical-peel-strength exfoliant that would warrant a 16+ RED classification. Combined with real Lactic and Lactobionic acids, it is still a genuine active, not a basic hydrator.

For a user under 14, or any first-time exfoliator user regardless of age, start with a single weekly application on a small area (jawline) before moving to the frequency in the Weekly Planner below. The packaging itself is clinical/dermo-cosmetic in styling, not youth-marketed, so there is no packaging-trap concern here.

Compatibility checklist: Bedside-compatible (no sink needed) -- yes. Requires rinsing -- no. Requires precise dosage -- no, one pad is one full dose. Applicable with unwashed hands -- yes, provided the face itself was cleansed earlier. Requires wait time -- roughly 1-3 minutes before the next step. Can it anchor a single-product routine -- no, it needs a moisturizer after it at minimum.

Minimum viable routine position: on a genuinely low-energy night, this product still qualifies as one of the easiest active steps to keep in a bare-bones 2-3 product routine (cleanse if possible, wipe with the pad, moisturize) precisely because there is no measuring and no rinsing involved.

Sensory aversion check: the Menthol/Menthoxypropanediol cooling sensation and mild tingle from the acid blend can feel unwelcome on an already-fatigued, reactive night. If that is the case, skip this step entirely that night rather than pushing through -- see the Weekly Planner's overuse warning below.

Step 1 (When): PM, after cleansing. Step 2 (How much): One pad covers the full face in one use -- do not re-dip or add extra liquid. Step 3 (How): Wipe gently outward from the center of the face, avoiding the eye area and any broken skin; do not press or scrub.

Introduce this as the ONLY new product in your routine. Wait a full 14 days before adding anything else. This isolation window ensures you can identify whether any reaction is caused by this specific product.

1. Gentle cleanser (optional rinse if skin is oily on waking). 2. Hydrating toner layer, if used. 3. Antioxidant serum, if used. 4. Moisturizer. 5. Dr.Althea 2% Salicylic Acid Clear Pad is not the default AM step -- reserve AM use for very oily, resilient skin that has already built tolerance PM, and only if you are strict about daily SPF. 6. Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++, non-negotiable.

In Mauritius' humid mornings, humectants (HA, glycerin) in any earlier hydrating step pull water from the humid air itself rather than from deeper skin layers, which is why a light routine often performs better than a heavy one before this pad and before SPF.

AM restriction: BHA exfoliation increases the skin's sun sensitivity by removing the outer dead-cell layer that offers some natural UV buffering. If you use this product in the AM, sunscreen is mandatory, not optional.

1. Oil cleanser/balm if wearing SPF or makeup. 2. Water-based cleanser. 3. Hydrating toner layer, if used. 4. Dr.Althea 2% Salicylic Acid Clear Pad -- wipe on cleansed, dry or lightly damp skin. 5. Wait 1-3 minutes. 6. Soothing serum, if barrier support is needed. 7. Moisturizer. 8. Occlusive seal only if very dry or in AC for long hours.

Skin cycling integration: this product occupies the Exfoliation lane. In a 4-night cycle: Night 1 -- this pad; Night 2 -- retinoid (if used); Nights 3-4 -- recovery, no actives. Never use this pad and a retinoid on the same night.

Technique: Wipe (do not rub or scrub) -- friction on top of a chemical exfoliant compounds irritation rather than improving results. Avoid the eye contour and lips, and avoid any area with active broken skin.

Required skin state: cleansed, dry-to-lightly-damp skin. Applying over makeup or unremoved sunscreen reduces contact with the actual skin surface and wastes most of the pad.

Wait time: 1-3 minutes before the next step, so the pH-dependent acids have a moment to work at their intended pH before being diluted by a following product.

Hands deliver 100% of product. Cotton pads absorb approximately 30-40%. This is inherent to the pre-soaked pad format itself -- it is factored into how much liquid the brand pre-doses per pad, not a flaw in how you are using it.

This is an encyclopedia map of all product types. You do not use all of these daily. You select modules based on your skin state.

Global execution rules: Viscosity ladder -- thinnest to thickest, water-phase before oil-phase, treatments before seals. Wait-time defaults -- watery layers 10-20s; serum layers 30-60s; before sunscreen 10-15 minutes if going outdoors. Amount defaults (unless brand-specific guidance overrides): watery toner/essence 5-8 drops per layer; serum/ampoule 2-3 drops or 1 pump; eye product half a rice-grain per eye; gel moisturizer 1-1.5 peas, cream 1-2 peas; occlusive seal rice-grain to pea-size; sunscreen 2-finger rule for face, +1 finger for neck. Hydrators go on slightly damp skin; retinoids on fully dry skin; exfoliating acids on dry-to-lightly-damp skin. Hard cap rule: if the routine pills, stings, or feels heavy, reduce layers, not increase.

AM Maximum Stack: 1. Rinse/gentle cleanse (optional) → 2. pH-prep toner (optional) → 3. Hydrating toner layers (optional) → 4. Essence (optional) → 5. Mist (optional) → 6. Booster/soothing serum (optional) → 7. Antioxidant lane, choose one (optional) → 8. Pigment support lane, choose one (optional) → 9. Hydration serum lane (optional) → 10. Oil-control/sebum lane, choose one (optional) → 11. Peptide/repair lane (optional) → 12. Eye product (optional) → 13. Moisturizer → 14. Optional sealing layer (dry/AC only) → 15. Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ (non-negotiable) → 16. Lip SPF (optional).

In AM, prioritize comfort + SPF adherence over stacking. In high humidity, fewer layers often perform better.

PM Maximum Stack: 1. Micellar pre-cleanse (optional) → 2. Oil cleanser/balm (if SPF/makeup) → 3. Water cleanser → 4. pH-prep toner (optional) → 5. Hydrating toner layers (optional) → 6. Essence (optional) → 7. Soothing/barrier serum (optional) → 8. [Anchor: this pad] → 9. Targeted serum, only if non-conflicting (optional) → 10. Moisturizer → 11. Sleeping mask (optional) → 12. Occlusive seal (optional, avoid if clog-prone) → 13. Spot treatment/pimple patch (as needed) → 14. Lip sleeping mask (optional).

Do not layer retinoids with AHA/BHA in the same night; keep "one lane" per night.

Lane strictness: One-lane rule -- Retinoid OR Exfoliation OR Strong Vitamin C (LAA) OR Acne-control active per routine; barrier/hydration can always accompany. If unsure, default to the safest lane -- barrier/hydration -- and reduce layers.

Rung: water-thin liquid, applied directly after cleansing/toning and before any serum layer -- it is functionally a toner-step exfoliant, not a post-serum treatment.

Layering rule: apply thinnest to thickest, water-phase before oil-phase. Because this pad is essentially a light, low-viscosity acid solution, everything that follows it (serum, moisturizer, oil) should come after, never before.

Phase compatibility: water-phase. It will not block or interfere with a following oil-phase product, but an oil-phase product applied first would block the acid from reaching the skin -- always use this pad on freshly cleansed, not-yet-moisturized skin.

Rest days: non-Clear Pad nights let the acid mantle and lipid barrier recover between exfoliation sessions; skipping rest days is the single most common cause of BHA-related barrier damage.

Overuse warning: do not exceed every-other-night use even on resilient, very oily skin, and new users should start at 2x/week. Exceeding this does NOT produce faster results -- it produces barrier damage.

Purging vs. reaction: PURGING happens in your usual breakout zones, stays surface-level, and resolves within 4-6 weeks as it accelerates blemishes already forming beneath the skin. A REACTION happens in NEW areas, involves burning, swelling, or hives, and worsens rather than improves -- stop immediately if you see this pattern.

Prerequisites: before starting this product, your routine MUST already include a daily gentle cleanser, a basic moisturizer, and daily SPF if used in the morning. Without these foundations, this product causes more harm than benefit.

Barrier index gate: if your skin stings on moisturizer, feels tight within 30 minutes of cleansing, or shows visible flaking, your barrier is below threshold. Start with Dr.Althea 147 Barrier Cream 50ml alone for 1-2 weeks first.

Clogged pores and blackheads/whiteheads: Salicylic Acid's lipophilicity lets it dissolve into the sebum inside a pore rather than sitting on top of it, loosening the compacted mix of oil and dead skin cells that forms a comedone.

Surface texture: Lactic Acid (AHA) and Lactobionic Acid (PHA) work on the skin's surface to loosen the bonds between dead corneocytes, smoothing microrelief without needing to penetrate as deeply as the BHA does.

Secondary benefit: Lactic Acid has documented mild humectant and gentle-brightening properties as a secondary effect of surface exfoliation, distinct from the melanin-pathway ingredients (niacinamide, tranexamic acid, arbutin) that specifically target PIH.

What this product cannot do: it cannot physically shrink pore size (pores are a fixed anatomical structure, not something that "closes"), cannot remove a truly cystic/nodular lesion below the skin surface, and cannot treat inflamed, actively-broken acne without risking further irritation.

Barrier moisturizer (mandatory follow-up): primary pick -- Dr.Althea 147 Barrier Cream 50ml (in stock), a five-ceramide cream from the same brand designed to reseal the barrier an exfoliant temporarily thins. Alternatives: Dr.Althea 147 Barrier Cream 15ml (in stock), Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream 50ml (in stock), Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream 15ml (in stock). Use PM, after this pad, every night it is used.

Soothing serum/mist for recovery nights: primary pick -- Dr.Althea 345 Relief Serum 15ml (in stock), niacinamide + centella + panthenol. Alternatives: Dr.Althea Skin Relief Essence 30ml (in stock), Dr.Althea Rapid Hypochlorous Acid Rescue Mist 100ml (in stock), Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream Mist 100ml (in stock). Use on the recovery nights between Clear Pad nights.

Daily SPF (mandatory if used AM, strongly advised regardless): primary pick -- Dr.Althea Green Tea Fresh Sunscreen 45ml (in stock). Alternatives: Dr.Althea Aqua Glowing Sunscreen 45ml (in stock), Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics 50ml (in stock), SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum 50ml (in stock).

Pilling pairs: layering this pad directly under a heavy occlusive cream, or under a silicone-forward primer/sunscreen the same session, is the most common pilling combination reported for acid-toner-then-cream routines generally. Mitigate by waiting the full 1-3 minutes, patting rather than rubbing in the moisturizer, and using a lighter gel-cream on Clear Pad nights.

This is a conflict-solver for ACTIVE ingredients. If you run multiple actives, use these rules to avoid irritation, deactivation, and barrier damage.

Universal rules: run only one primary active lane per AM or PM routine (Retinoid OR Acid Exfoliation OR L-Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C OR Benzoyl Peroxide OR strong acne lane). If you break a rule, reduce frequency, split AM/PM, or alternate nights rather than pushing through. Barrier override: if moisturizer stings or skin feels tight within 30 minutes of cleansing, pause all actives and run barrier-only for 3-7 days.

vs. Retinoids (Retinol/Retinal/Tretinoin/Adapalene): avoid same night for most people. Instead, alternate nights (this pad 1-2x/week, retinoid 2-4x/week, separate nights) or run a 4-night skin-cycle. Very oily, resilient skin may tolerate combining as an advanced technique only.

vs. Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO): do not layer directly -- combined irritation risk is high. Instead, use BPO in the AM (wash-off or leave-on) and this pad only on PM nights BPO is not used.

vs. L-Ascorbic Acid (pure Vitamin C): don't layer in the same routine. Instead, run Vitamin C in the AM and this pad in the PM (classic split).

vs. another separate AHA/BHA product: avoid stacking two separate strong exfoliants -- this pad already combines BHA, AHA, and PHA in one step. Instead, alternate days with a different exfoliant, don't add both the same night.

vs. chemical exfoliants layered with physical scrubs/brushes: don't combine same day -- the combination of chemical exfoliation and mechanical friction over-strips and micro-tears skin. Choose one or the other per session.

Scheduling templates: Template A (AM/PM split) -- AM antioxidant lane → moisturizer → SPF; PM this pad OR retinoid, not both. Template B (4-night skin cycling) -- Night 1 this pad; Night 2 retinoid; Nights 3-4 recovery. Template C (alternate-night) -- Mon/Wed/Fri retinoid, Tue/Sat this pad, Thu/Sun recovery.

Do not layer retinoids with AHA/BHA in the same night; keep "one lane" per night.

Pre-period breakouts happen because progesterone causes the pore lining to physically swell, narrowing the opening and trapping sebum beneath -- which is exactly the mechanism this BHA is designed to relieve, but a swollen, sensitized pore lining is also more reactive to the acid itself. If breakouts spike in the days before your period, keep this pad in rotation but drop to once weekly rather than pushing through at full frequency.

Water-Permeable (wudu-compatible). This is a thin, water-based liquid toner left on the skin, not a film-forming or occlusive product -- it does not create a barrier that would block water from reaching the skin during ablution.

Adilsons provides this assessment based on the product's physical properties. Rulings on wudu validity vary between scholars. Consult your own trusted Islamic authority.

MYTH: "Higher BHA percentage always means faster, better results." REALITY: 2% is already at the upper end of what's typically used in leave-on BHA formulas; going higher increases irritation risk without a proportional increase in benefit, and consistency at a tolerable strength outperforms an occasional high-strength product.

MYTH: "Tingling and cooling means it's working." REALITY: the tingling here is largely from Menthol and Menthoxypropanediol, cooling agents included for sensory effect -- they are not a marker of exfoliation efficacy, and their absence on a reformulated batch would not mean the product stopped working.

MYTH: "You can 'scrub out' a blackhead faster by pressing the pad harder." REALITY: pressure and friction increase irritation and can push debris deeper; the acid needs contact time, not mechanical force, to do its job.

Sugar cane burning season (July-November): PM2.5 increases during this period. This pad's finish is thin and non-tacky, so it doesn't itself trap particulates, but freshly-exfoliated skin is more reactive to airborne irritants -- keep sunscreen and a barrier layer consistent through this window.

Hard water note: Mauritius tap water hardness varies by region; hard water can leave a calcium-residue film after cleansing that reads as tightness. Using this pad on properly cleansed skin (not over hard-water residue) helps the acid make even contact rather than reacting unevenly across a mineral film.

*This "soothing plant complex" sits below the estimated 1% line in the full INCI list, suggesting it is present at a trace/sub-efficacious concentration. Its inclusion may be primarily for marketing rather than clinical effect.

Full INCI: Aqua, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycereth-26, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Propanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Lactobionic Acid, Lactic Acid, Menthol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Menthoxypropanediol, Glycerin, [--- Estimated 1% Line ---] Disodium EDTA, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Parfum, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Bisabolol, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract.

This list was aggregated from third-party ingredient-decoder search results (WebFetch to the primary source page was blocked in this research session); treat as medium confidence and cross-check against your own jar's printed INCI if precision matters to you.

Preservative system: 1,2-Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin function as a multifunctional preservative-booster pairing common in modern K-beauty formulas, alongside Hydroxyacetophenone (also a preservative-booster/antioxidant).

Fragrance status: Synthetic Fragrance (Parfum) -- this is not a fragrance-free product.

Scent description: not independently smelled/verified this session; expect a light synthetic scent typical of the category, plus a cooling menthol sensation on application rather than a strong lingering smell.

EU 26 allergen screen: the declared INCI lists "Parfum" without an individually broken-out allergen component (e.g. Limonene, Linalool) in any source reached this session.

*Based on brand-declared INCI. The term "Fragrance" or "Parfum" in the INCI list may contain undisclosed allergens. Patch test advised for sensitive individuals.

Alcohol disclosure: Alcohol-Free -- no ethanol or denatured alcohol found in the declared INCI.

Aspirin/salicylate sensitivity: Salicylic Acid is chemically related to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). If you have a known aspirin allergy or salicylate sensitivity, patch test carefully or consult a doctor before use -- topical absorption at 2% is generally low but not zero, especially over broken or extensively-exfoliated skin.

Prescription retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, isotretinoin): combining a leave-on BHA with a prescription-strength retinoid compounds dryness and irritation risk. If you are on any of these, consult your dermatologist before adding this pad, and see the Conflict Solver above for scheduling if approved.

Isotretinoin specifically: oral isotretinoin already significantly thins and dries the skin barrier; most dermatologists advise against adding any additional leave-on exfoliant during a course of isotretinoin.

Halal: Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No ethanol from fermentation, no porcine-derived ingredients, and no haram animal-derived ingredients detected in the declared ingredient list. This is NOT a formal Halal certification. Muslims with stricter requirements should consult their own scholars.

Vegan: Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. This is NOT a formal vegan certification by The Vegan Society or equivalent body.

Cruelty-Free: Brand-stated policy (per Dr.Althea's own brand materials, corroborated by third-party cruelty-free trackers). Not independently certified by Leaping Bunny, PETA, or equivalent third-party audit. Dr.Althea's mainland-China retail presence was not conclusively resolved in prior brand-level research -- treat any cruelty-free claim with that caveat rather than as absolute.

Microplastic-Free: Yes -- no known microbead or non-biodegradable polymer exfoliant found in the declared INCI (exfoliation here is chemical, via the acid blend, not via plastic microbeads).

MFDS classification: not confirmed as a Functional Cosmetic (a Korean government classification requiring additional testing for a specific claim like whitening or wrinkle improvement). Treated as a General Cosmetic pending evidence otherwise.

Clinical evidence: no named clinical institution, sample size, or study reference was found for this specific SKU during this session's research. The mechanism of Salicylic Acid as a BHA and Lactic Acid as an AHA is well-established in the broader dermatological literature, but that is ingredient-class evidence, not a study on this specific formula.

Evidence confidence: Marketing-Only* for any product-specific efficacy claim beyond the general, well-documented mechanism of the named acid actives themselves.

*Brand and retailer marketing copy for this SKU (pore size, oiliness, photoaging, pigmentation) was not backed by a named study, sample size, or testing protocol in any source reached this session.

Fungal Acne Safety: FA-Conditional. Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate is an isostearate ester (a moderate-chain fatty-acid-type ingredient); some fungal-acne-prone users react to this ester family, though it is generally considered a lower-risk ester than laurate/myristate types. If you have confirmed Malassezia folliculitis, patch test on a small area first rather than assuming FA-safety.

Assessment: Low. As a water-thin liquid absorbed quickly, this pad itself is unlikely to pill on its own.

Specifics: pilling risk rises when it is layered too soon under a heavy, silicone-forward moisturizer or sunscreen, or under another humectant-heavy serum applied without a wait.

Mitigation: wait the full 1-3 minutes before the next step, pat rather than rub in your moisturizer, and reduce to a single hydrating layer on nights you use this pad.

Color baseline: expect a clear-to-very-light liquid. A visible yellowing or browning of the pad liquid over time can indicate oxidation of the acid complex.

Storage: keep the jar sealed tightly between uses and away from direct bathroom humidity and heat -- Mauritius' bathroom humidity accelerates both microbial growth in a pre-soaked format and evaporation of the lighter glycol solvents.

Spoilage signs: a sour or off smell distinct from the product's normal light scent, visible mold on the pad jar rim, or pads that have dried out. When in doubt, discard.

Patch test: apply to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours, then behind the ear and wait another 24 hours, before your first full-face use.

72-hour barrier reset: if you experience an adverse reaction, STOP ALL ACTIVES. For 72 hours, use ONLY a gentle cleanser, plain moisturizer, and mineral SPF -- no acids, retinoids, Vitamin C, exfoliants, or essential oils. After 72 hours, reintroduce ONE product per 14 days.

Emergency stop signals: hives, swelling, blistering, persistent burning, or any breathing difficulty -- seek emergency care immediately and discontinue use.

1. Using this pad nightly from day one instead of building up frequency. 2. Skipping SPF on days it's used, even when using it only at night (the sensitization effect can carry into the following day). 3. Layering it under a heavy retinoid or a separate strong AHA the same night. 4. Pressing or scrubbing with the pad instead of wiping gently. 5. Re-using a single pad across multiple sessions to "stretch" the jar -- the pre-dosed liquid degrades and the pad itself becomes a bacterial surface after one use.

Overuse threshold: exceeding every-other-night use, even on oily/resilient skin, risks compromising the barrier faster than the visible benefit accrues.

Phone hygiene: if you're treating active breakouts, wipe your phone screen regularly -- it is a well-documented bacterial transfer vector to the cheek and jaw area this product targets.

Usage math: one pad per session, used 2-3x per week as recommended. If the retailer-cited 65-pad count is accurate for this jar, that works out to roughly 21-32 sessions.

Lifespan: at the recommended 2-3x/week cadence, a 65-pad jar lasts approximately 7-11 weeks. Using it nightly (against guidance) would deplete it in roughly 9 weeks while also meaningfully increasing irritation risk -- correct dosage extends product life without sacrificing results.

Reorder timing: plan to reorder roughly 2 weeks before you expect to run out, to allow for Mauritius shipping/processing time.

This product is the "clear the pore" step in an otherwise ordinary barrier-first routine -- it is a twice-or-thrice-weekly active insertion, not a daily foundation product. It sits at the toner-step position on the viscosity ladder: after cleansing, before any serum.

PM routine on a Clear Pad night: 1. Cleanse. 2. Wipe with the Clear Pad, avoiding eyes/lips. 3. Wait 1-3 minutes. 4. Apply Dr.Althea 345 Relief Serum 15ml if barrier support is needed. 5. Moisturize with Dr.Althea 147 Barrier Cream 50ml.

AM routine the following morning: 1. Rinse or gentle cleanse. 2. Hydrating step if used. 3. Moisturizer. 4. Dr.Althea Green Tea Fresh Sunscreen 45ml -- non-negotiable the morning after any BHA use.

If your skin is barrier-compromised right now: pause this pad entirely and use the barrier cream alone for 1-2 weeks before reintroducing it at 1x/week.

If you are in AC all day: add a light occlusive seal over your moisturizer on Clear Pad nights specifically, since exfoliated skin loses moisture to AC air faster than intact skin.

If you are in your late luteal (pre-period) phase: drop to 1x/week per the Hormonal Cycle section above rather than maintaining full frequency through a naturally more reactive window.

Bundle 1 -- Barrier-first exfoliation set: this Clear Pad + Dr.Althea 147 Barrier Cream 50ml + Dr.Althea Green Tea Fresh Sunscreen 45ml. Use the pad PM 2-3x/week, the cream every PM, the sunscreen every AM.

Bundle 2 -- Soothing recovery set: this Clear Pad + Dr.Althea 345 Relief Serum 15ml + Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream 50ml. Use the serum and cream on the recovery nights this pad is not used.

After purchasing, you will receive our skincare education email series covering this product in depth.

The recommendations above are based on formulation synergy with Dr.Althea 2% Salicylic Acid Clear Pad, not on margin or stock levels. If a pairing does not exist in our catalog, we say so. If you already own a product that fills the same role, use what you have first.

If you want a gentler entry point into acid exfoliation, or your skin has reacted poorly to this concentration, Dr.Althea Rapid Mild Acid Rescue Pore Pad (in stock) is a milder pad from the same brand line, positioned for surface exfoliation and texture refinement rather than deep pore-clearing strength. Its exact acid blend and concentration were not independently verified this session, so treat the "milder" positioning as the brand's own framing rather than a confirmed lower-percentage claim.

Choose the 2% Salicylic Acid Clear Pad over the Rapid Mild Acid Rescue Pore Pad if you need: a confirmed, brand-stated 2% BHA concentration for genuinely oily, congested, blackhead-prone skin rather than general surface polish.

Upgrade triggers (IF/THEN): IF you have visible blackheads/whiteheads and an intact barrier, THEN this pad is the better fit. IF you've used the Mild pad for 4+ weeks without irritation and want more, THEN step up gradually (1x/week first). IF your barrier is currently compromised, THEN do not upgrade yet -- repair barrier first regardless of how congested your pores feel. IF you are new to chemical exfoliation entirely, THEN start with the milder pad, not this one.

Timing and lane compatibility: both pads occupy the same Exfoliation lane -- never use both in the same routine or week; pick one. This pad works PM-primary per the Conflict Solver above.

Don't upgrade if: your barrier is below threshold per the Clinical Triage section; you can't commit to daily SPF; you're already running a retinoid on most nights; you're new to actives generally.

If you match 2 or more upgrade triggers above, THIS is worth choosing. If not, the milder alternative is sufficient and safer. Consistency beats complexity.

This product's PRIMARY function is: dissolving sebum inside clogged pores via a 2% BHA. You do NOT need this if you already own another leave-on Salicylic Acid product at a similar or higher concentration and are already using it consistently -- finish your current product before purchasing this one.

Check for an open bottle of any BHA toner, essence, or serum in your current routine before adding this. Since PAO is not disclosed for this jar, apply the general rule that most opened K-beauty liquids are best used within 6-12 months of opening -- buying a second BHA product while one already sits open and unused is waste either way.

Stacking assessment: No Benefit if you already run another BHA at 1.5-2%+ (same mechanism, same lane). Marginal Benefit if your current exfoliant is AHA-only or PHA-only (some pathway overlap via this product's own AHA/PHA content, but the BHA is new). Significant Benefit if you currently run no chemical exfoliant at all and have a barrier ready for one.

This product is sourced through authorized Korean distributors -- primarily Craver Co., Ltd (South Korea), alongside other verified distribution partners. Craver is a major Korean beauty distributor and the parent company of SKIN1004, handling authorized distribution for multiple K-beauty brands. All products are shipped directly to Mauritius via verified channels.

For comprehensive information about how we verify authenticity, our layered verification system, and how to check your product at home, visit our dedicated Authenticity and Trust page.

Quick verification tips: genuine Dr.Althea units carry an EAN-13 barcode beginning with the 880 (Korea) GS1 prefix, and a rectangular HiddenTag authentication label that can be scanned with the free HiddenTag app for a genuine/not-genuine result. If your unit lacks a scannable batch code, cross-reference it at CheckFresh. These markers are brand-wide observations, not independently re-verified against this specific jar's packaging this session.

Dr.Althea is best known in this catalog for its ceramide-forward barrier line (147 Barrier Cream, 345 Relief Cream) and its multi-form vitamin C and niacinamide serums, generally leaning toward calming, barrier-support formulation rather than aggressive actives. This 2% Salicylic Acid Clear Pad sits at the more active end of the brand's own range -- a real, meaningfully-dosed BHA exfoliant rather than the gentler positioning most of the brand's other SKUs take.

Manufacturing model (in-house vs. contract) was not confirmed via a brand-owned source in prior or current research sessions -- stated as unknown rather than guessed.

Community reviews for this specific product were not yet available in our research at the time of writing. Two targeted searches (general review/ingredient search, and a Reddit/r-AsianBeauty/purging-specific search) did not surface a findable Reddit thread, YesStyle review set, or Amazon review aggregate for this exact SKU.

We would rather tell you this plainly than invent a plausible-sounding quote. If you've used this product, your experience would genuinely help future customers -- check back as we continue to research and update this page.

Sustainability: the plastic jar is typically recyclable where facilities accept mixed plastics locally; this is not a refillable format.

Is 2% salicylic acid too strong for daily use? For most people, yes -- daily use at this concentration risks over-exfoliation. Start at 2-3x/week and adjust from there per the Weekly Planner above.

Can I use this if I have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)? It's FA-Conditional, not clearly FA-safe -- one ingredient (Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate) is a fatty-acid-type ester some FA-prone users react to. Patch test rather than assuming safety.

Is this safe to use during pregnancy? At exactly 2% (not above), it does not meet this store's specific pregnancy safety-gate threshold, but many dermatologists and OB-GYNs still advise caution with any leave-on salicylic acid during pregnancy. Consult your own doctor before use.

Will this actually shrink my pores? No -- pores are a fixed anatomical structure. What it can do is keep them clear of the debris that makes them look larger, which is a real and different benefit.

Can I use this with my retinol? Not on the same night. See the Conflict Solver section above for how to schedule both without conflict.

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

An oil-soluble acid (Salicylic Acid is the main one used in skincare) that can penetrate into oily pores, unlike water-soluble AHAs.

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid)

A water-soluble acid (like Lactic Acid) that works mainly on the skin's surface, loosening dead cells.

PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid)

A larger-molecule acid (like Lactobionic Acid) that exfoliates gently at the surface with generally lower irritation than classic AHAs.

Comedone

The medical term for a clogged pore -- a blackhead (open) or whitehead (closed).

Purging

A temporary increase in breakouts as an active accelerates blemishes that were already forming beneath the skin.

Barrier (skin barrier)

The outermost layer of skin that holds moisture in and irritants out; damaged by over-exfoliation or over-cleansing.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia folliculitis)

Small, uniform, itchy bumps caused by yeast overgrowth, not bacteria -- responds differently to treatment than regular acne.

Estimated 1% Line

A position-based estimate in an ingredient list below which ingredients are likely present at under 1% concentration.

PAO (Period After Opening)

The number of months a product remains safe/effective after first use, usually shown as a jar icon with a number.

Every product sold by Adilsons Beauty is 100% genuine, sourced through authorized Korean distribution channels. Full details on our verification system: Authenticity and Trust.

Our team is available to help you build a routine, troubleshoot reactions, and answer ingredient questions. WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.

For in-depth skincare education, visit our blog at adilsons.mu/blogs/k-beauty or subscribe to our email to get our guided education series delivered to your inbox.

Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).

Processing and Timing: Orders process in 1-2 business days; usually ready by Day 3 for pickup by our delivery partners/regional team. Partner collection can take up to 1 week. After pickup, delivery typically takes 1-5 business days (weekdays only).

Express: May be available by region; request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.

Liquids/Sensitive Items: Serums, toners, liquid makeup (and kits containing liquids) are pickup or door-to-door only; checkout enforces this.

Scheduling: Deliveries run by region on set schedules; we will contact you the evening before.

Pickup: Citadelle Mall pickup available.

Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges.

Refunds (Summary): For defective/damaged on receipt (report within 48h), wrong item, or manufacturing defect within 6 months. Refunds via bank transfer (7-10 business days); card refunds may incur a 5% processor fee (fee not charged for defects/order errors). Opened skincare/personal-care items are non-returnable (except if damaged on delivery).

Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. If anything differs, the policy pages are final.

Store Policies: For the most up-to-date information, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.

Best for: oily, congested, blackhead-prone skin with an already-healthy barrier, looking for a genuinely-dosed (2%, brand-stated) BHA in a no-measuring, wipe-and-go format. Not the right starting point for anyone new to chemical exfoliation or currently dealing with a compromised barrier.

Key benefits: confirmed 2% Salicylic Acid concentration • real three-acid blend (BHA + AHA + PHA) in one step • pre-dosed format removes guesswork • fast-absorbing, non-tacky finish suited to Mauritius humidity.

Keep in mind: contains fragrance (Parfum) and cooling agents (Menthol) that some sensitive users find irritating • no independently-verified reviews for this exact SKU exist yet • real pad count/net volume is retailer-sourced, not brand-confirmed on Adilsons' own listing.

Assessment: Not Suitable / Consult Oncologist. This product contains an active leave-on chemical exfoliant (2% Salicylic Acid plus Lactic and Lactobionic Acid), synthetic fragrance (Parfum), and Menthol -- all of which are generally avoided during active cancer treatment because treatment-sensitized skin has a reduced barrier and heightened reactivity to exfoliants and fragrance.

Consult your oncology care team before introducing any new skincare products during treatment.

Quick version: Week 1-2 -- introduce alone, once weekly, and monitor. Week 3-4 -- increase to 2x/week if stable. Week 5+ -- add one support product (like a soothing serum) only if needed. If irritation appears at any point, follow the 72-Hour Barrier Reset above rather than repeating these steps.

This product must be introduced as the ONLY new product. Wait 14 days before adding anything else.

Hard water interaction: this is a pH-adjusted acid toner pad -- using it on skin still carrying a hard-water calcium-stearate film (from cleansing in hard-water areas of Mauritius) can cause uneven acid contact and increased tightness. A brief rinse with filtered water, or a pH-adjusting toner step before this pad if you use one, helps the acid reach skin evenly.