AccessSOFT BSA

High-Performance BHA Exfoliant for Gentle Skin Renewal and Clarity

INCI Name: Betaine Salicylate

AccessSOFT BSA is a keratolytic beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) active that combines the exfoliating power of salicylic acid with the hydrating, soothing properties of betaine. This unique complex delivers effective skin renewal, pore refinement, and anti-acne benefits with significantly less irritation than pure salicylic acid. Its oil-soluble nature allows it to penetrate and clear sebum from pores, making it ideal for gentle yet powerful exfoliating and clarifying formulations.

Solubility Notes:

Slightly soluble in water; soluble in glycols. The complex enhances water dispersibility compared to pure salicylic acid while retaining oil-solubility to penetrate pores. Best added to the glycol phase or dispersed into water at an adjusted pH of 3.8–4.2.

Perfect For These Applications

Other cosmetic uses possible—contact us for formulation guidance.

Exfoliating Toners & Solutions

Effectively unclogs pores and smoothes skin texture in daily-use leave-on formulas for a clear, radiant complexion.
Acne Spot Treatments

Delivers targeted anti-inflammatory and keratolytic action to reduce blemishes and help prevent future breakouts.
Clarifying Facial Cleansers

Provides gentle exfoliation in wash-off systems to improve skin clarity and prevent pore congestion without stripping the skin.
Pore Refining Serums

Minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores by clearing sebum and dead skin cells from within the pore lining.
Scalp Exfoliating Treatments

Helps remove product buildup and dead skin cells from the scalp, promoting a healthier environment for hair growth.
Body Acne Sprays & Lotions

Treats and helps prevent breakouts on the back, chest, and other body areas in easy-to-apply, non-irritating formats.

Performance & Formulation Insights for AccessSOFT BSA

How Betaine Salicylate Works

AccessSOFT BSA functions as a superior beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) through the complementary actions of salicylic acid and betaine. The salicylate portion is lipophilic (oil-soluble), allowing it to penetrate sebum-filled pores and exfoliate the built-up layers of dead skin cells that cause congestion and blemishes. As a keratolytic, it loosens the intercellular bonds between corneocytes to promote orderly desquamation and reveal smoother, clearer skin. Meanwhile, betaine, a natural osmolyte from sugar beets, acts as a humectant and anti-irritant. It helps maintain skin hydration and mitigates the dryness or stinging sometimes associated with acid exfoliants, delivering a balanced, effective exfoliating experience.

Formulation Guidelines & Technical Advantages

For optimal performance, control the final formulation pH within 3.8–4.2. Outside this narrow range, exfoliating activity drops significantly. Pre-disperse AccessSOFT BSA in a glycol such as propanediol or butylene glycol before adding to the water phase. While only slightly soluble in water, the betaine complex improves water dispersibility versus crystalline salicylic acid, making it easier to work with in aqueous and emulsion systems. A 4% concentration of Betaine Salicylate provides exfoliating activity equivalent to 2% salicylic acid (the maximum OTC acne treatment level in many regions), enabling gentle yet effective formulations.

Key Formulation Benefits

Gentle Yet Effective: Provides proven BHA benefits—exfoliation, anti-acne action, and pore clearing—with reduced irritation thanks to the moisturizing betaine complex.
Enhanced Solubility Profile: Easier incorporation into aqueous and emulsion systems versus pure salicylic acid, which often requires higher solvent or alcohol levels.
Dual-Action Performance: Combines chemical exfoliation with skin hydration in a single ingredient to simplify formulas and elevate user experience.
Optimal pH for Efficacy: Maintaining pH at 3.8–4.2 maximizes bioavailability and keratolytic activity for visible, consistent results.
Broad Application Range: Suitable for toners, serums, cleansers, masks, spot treatments, and scalp care.
Antibacterial Properties: Demonstrates antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, supporting acne-prone skin.

Heading #1
Benefits	Acne Treatment, AHA/BHA/PHA Acids, Anti-Bacterial, Exfoliants, Pore Refining
INCI Name	Betaine Salicylate
Usage Rate	0.5%-4%
Active Type	Acids (AHA/BHA/PHA)
Solubility	Both/Dual-Soluble
Application Area	Body, Face, Scalp
Physical Form	Powder
Certifications	Cruelty-Free, Vegan

Frequently Asked Questions About AccessSOFT BSA

AccessSOFT BSA is a complex of salicylic acid and betaine, making it gentler and more hydrating while delivering deep pore exfoliation. It also offers improved solubility characteristics that simplify formulation.

The typical usage rate is 0.5%–4.0%. A 4% level provides exfoliating activity equivalent to 2% salicylic acid.

Maintain the final formulation pH between 3.8 and 4.2 for maximum exfoliating efficacy.

Yes. It is suitable for daily use in toners and cleansers at 1–2%. At higher concentrations, limit use to 2–3 times per week or as a spot treatment.

Absolutely. As an oil-soluble BHA, it penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and dead skin, key contributors to acne. Its antibacterial activity further supports acne-prone skin.

Pre-dissolve in a glycol (e.g., propanediol or butylene glycol) with gentle heat if needed, then add to the water phase. Adjust the final pH to 3.8–4.2.

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