Capryloyl Salicylic Acid

Also known as: LHA, lipohydroxy acid

INCI name: Capryloyl Salicylic Acid

What it does

A fat-loving form of salicylic acid with an eight-carbon chain attached. It penetrates slowly and loosens dead cells layer by layer, so it is used as a gentle exfoliant on skin and scalp.

Benefits

In a randomised trial of 100 people with scalp seborrhoeic dermatitis, a shampoo with 0.1% LHA and 1.3% salicylic acid reduced scaling, redness and itching as well as a ciclopirox shampoo, with better tolerance. Most of the efficacy data are funded by its manufacturer.

Concerns & Risks

Can sting at higher leave-on levels, and allergic reactions have been reported, though rarely. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel concluded in 2024 that the data were insufficient to confirm its safety as used.

Comedogenic rating

0/5

Non-comedogenic (0)

Suitable for

Oily or acne-prone skin; oily or flaky scalps

Avoid if

You have a salicylate (aspirin) allergy, or broken or inflamed skin

Typical concentration

Around 0.05–0.1% in cleansers and shampoos; 5–10% in professional peels

Products containing Capryloyl Salicylic Acid

1 product in our database