++++

[ DemythSkin Verdict ]

PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant with 2% Salicylic Acid

ExfoliantAcne, clogged pores

Efficacy

Strong

4.2 / 5.0

Safety

Safe

4.6 / 5.0

System Verdict

Solid drugstore BHA exfoliant that delivers on acne control without unnecessary junk. Efficacy score of 4.2 reflects 2% salicylic acid (maximum OTC concentration) at optimal pH 3.2-4.0 for BHA penetration, paired with humectants like glycerin and betaine to minimize irritation in this leave-on format; blue algae adds minor soothing but doesn't inflate the score as it's low-concentration.

Active Ingredients Detected

S Tier: Gold StandardsHigh Clinical Proof | Skin-Transformative

Salicylic Acid

A Tier: Good BasicsProven Results

AquaBetaineGlycerin

B Tier: Supporting IngredientsPromising Ingredients

Butylene GlycolHydroxyacetophenonePentylene GlycolPotassium SorbatePropanediolSodium BenzoateSodium Citrate DihydrateSorbic Acid

C Tier: Marketing IdolsHype | Limited or Weak Data

Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower ExtractSpirulina Platensis (Blue Algae) Extract

D Tier: Potential IrritantsBe Cautious

Phenoxyethanol

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DemythSkin is an independent ingredient analyzer. Scores are computed by a deterministic rubric from published clinical evidence — no brand pays for a score.