Common Name(s): Lha,lipohydroxy acid,octanoyl salicylic acid
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Targeted, cell-surface-specific exfoliation with less irritation than salicylic acid.
Why It's Used: Gentle bha-like exfoliation with lower irritation profile than salicylic acid and greater lipophilicity for superior stratum corneum surface activity.
How It Works: Higher lipophilicity concentrates exfoliation at intercellular lipid bilayers of stratum corneum surface, providing cell-by-cell controlled desquamation rather than deep pore penetration.
Typically Found In: Anti-aging exfoliants,brightening products,sensitive skin bha alternatives
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ lipohydroxy acid (lha)
Secondary Functions: Anti-aging,brightening,targeted desquamation
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%โ2%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes โ synthetic or willow-derived
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetic via kolbe-schmitt reaction or from willow bark extract.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low; the gentlest bha-type exfoliant
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ anti-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Can cause dryness, peeling. follow with moisturizer. not for use in pregnancy.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes โ gentler than salicylic acid
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Safe at otc concentrations (0.5โ2%). avoid in pregnancy at high concentrations.
Works Well With: Niacinamide,zinc,hyaluronic acid,ceramides
Avoid Combining With: Multiple exfoliating acids simultaneously; avoid in pregnancy at high concentrations
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Lha's cell-by-cell controlled desquamation mechanism differs fundamentally from salicylic acid's pore-dissolution mechanism, providing a more controlled, less irritating skin renewal process.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,l'orรฉal research,cir safety assessment