{"id":75041,"date":"2026-10-07T16:09:30","date_gmt":"2026-10-07T14:09:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/?p=75041"},"modified":"2026-10-07T16:11:34","modified_gmt":"2026-10-07T14:11:34","slug":"svr-is-removing-salicylic-acid-from-its-sebiaclear-active-gel-is-this-a-good-or-bad-idea","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/svr-retire-lacide-salicylique-de-son-sebiaclear-active-gel-bonne-ou-mauvaise-idee\/","title":{"rendered":"SVR is removing salicylic acid from its Sebiaclear Active Gel: Is this a good or bad idea?"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/serum.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-75055\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/serum.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/serum-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/serum-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/serum-18x12.webp 18w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/serum-600x400.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">SVR\u2019s Sebiaclear Active Gel is a treatment for acne-prone skin. The brand has just revised its formula, and the change is significant: salicylic acid is no longer included. It has been replaced by a \u00abmild acid complex,\u00bb described as more gentle on the skin, for which SVR has filed a French patent application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udccc&nbsp;<strong>See also:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/kiehls-is-launching-an-ambitious-anti-wrinkle-serum-but-theres-a-catch\/\">Kiehl\u2019s is launching an ambitious anti-wrinkle serum, but there\u2019s a catch<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The brand claims that this complex has keratolytic and sebum-regulating efficacy comparable to that of 0.5 % of salicylic acid. Is this formula really better than the old one? Let\u2019s take a look at the ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The old formula: PHA, niacinamide, and salicylic acid<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The previous version was based on a classic combination for blemish-prone skin:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gluconolactone (2nd position)<\/strong>&nbsp;: It's a PHA. It exfoliates like AHAs, but it's generally gentler and also moisturizing. It's better suited for sensitive skin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Niacinamide<\/strong>&nbsp;: probably at an interesting concentration, given its position on the list.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Salicylic acid<\/strong>&nbsp;: much further down the list, but very effective. This lipophilic BHA penetrates the sebum in the hair follicle and acts on clogged pores.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This combination makes sense for oily skin with blackheads and blemishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1022\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-1022x1024.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-75043\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-1022x1024.webp 1022w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-768x770.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-1533x1536.webp 1533w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-12x12.webp 12w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-600x601.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr-100x100.webp 100w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-sebiaclear-svr.webp 1894w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1022px) 100vw, 1022px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The new formula: more salicylic acid, more gluconolactone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gluconolactone has also been removed. SVR now relies on two acids: succinic acid and phytic acid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Succinic acid, in 7th place<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the most interesting aspect of this reformulation. It is used in certain skincare products for oily and blemish-prone skin and can help with exfoliation and blemish control, while being gentler on the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, we must exercise caution: in anti-acne cosmetics, succinic acid has far less clinical track record than\u2019<a href=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/facial-care\/anti-blackhead-care\/salicylic-acid-anti-blackheads\/\">salicylic acid<\/a>. A new ingredient\u2014or one that is part of a patented complex\u2014is not automatically superior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u00abAs effective as 0.5 % of salicylic acid\u00bb: the nuance that matters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is SVR's main argument. According to the brand, this comparison is based on&nbsp;<strong>ex vivo tests<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not a comparative clinical trial in which one group would use the new Sebiaclear and another a formula containing 0.5 % of salicylic acid for several weeks. The data is interesting for characterizing the complex. It is not sufficient to conclude that succinic acid is clinically as effective as salicylic acid for treating acne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A less matte finish<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Silica, which is highly effective at absorbing sebum and providing a matte finish, is replaced by modified cornstarch. It remains absorbent and mattifying, with a softer, velvety texture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With more humectants such as glycerin, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/brands\/svr-laboratory\/\">SVR<\/a> It seems to have prioritized a balance between a matte finish and comfort rather than a very dry look. The brand now claims 24 hours of hydration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"447\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-1024x447.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-75042\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-1024x447.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-300x131.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-768x335.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-1536x671.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-scaled.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-18x8.webp 18w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/formule-activ-gel-600x262.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Niacinamide at 4 %: The Key Benefit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Niacinamide is still there, in sixth place, and this time SVR clearly lists it as 4 %. It may help with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>sebum regulation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>support for the skin barrier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>anti-inflammatory activity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the gradual improvement in post-inflammatory marques levels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For acne-prone skin, this is one of the most effective ingredients in the formula. 4 % is already a respectable concentration: there\u2019s no need to automatically look for serums with 10 or 15 %.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Two excerpts\u2014to be taken with a grain of salt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">SVR highlights Quora Noni\u2122 (<em>Morinda citrifolia<\/em>, ranked 18th), with a focus on the skin microbiome. The formula also contains\u2019<em>Epilobium angustifolium<\/em>, marketed as \u00abPhoenix flower extract,\u00bb to regulate sebum and control shine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are interesting additions, but they carry much less weight than niacinamide, acids, and glycerin when evaluating the formula.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The problem: the scent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fragrance is still present, in 19th position. It ranks relatively low on the list, and the vast majority of users will likely tolerate it very well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, the product is explicitly intended for \u00absensitive, acne-prone skin.\u00bb Yet fragrance offers no skin benefits and remains a potential source of irritation that can be avoided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">SVR therefore appears to have sought to transform its Sebiaclear Active into a skincare product&nbsp;<strong>less of an exfoliant and more of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/facial-care\/moisturizer\/\">moisturizer<\/a><\/strong>, which makes sense for people who are also using acne treatments or active ingredients that can dry out and irritate the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In fact, the brand now claims to provide 24-hour hydration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>My opinion:<\/strong>&nbsp;This reformulation is clever, but not revolutionary. Replacing salicylic acid is consistent with the \u00absensitive, acne-prone skin\u00bb positioning. The 4 % niacinamide, the relatively high concentration of succinic acid, and the moisturizing ingredient make this formula a good choice for daily use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the other hand, there is no evidence that the new complex is superior to salicylic acid, which remains the most well-documented active ingredient for clogged pores and blemishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A formula that is likely gentler and more moisturizing, but one that trades a well-documented anti-blemish active ingredient for a newer, less-established approach. And for a product designed for sensitive skin, the fragrance remains an inconsistency that SVR could easily have corrected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scan your serum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To find out if your serum is right for your skin type &nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/beautydecoded.go.link\/hEMHE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Download the Beauty Decoded app (iOS and Android)<\/a>&nbsp;Scan your products, decipher their INCI listings, and compare what the packaging promises with what the formula actually contains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The rating depends on your skin!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"538\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-538x1024.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-75046\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-538x1024.webp 538w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-158x300.webp 158w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-768x1461.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-807x1536.webp 807w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-scaled.webp 1076w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-6x12.webp 6w, https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Note-svr-activ-600x1142.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 538px) 100vw, 538px\" \/><\/figure>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>SVR's Sebiaclear Active Gel is a skincare product for acne-prone skin. The brand has just revised its formula, and the change is significant: salicylic acid is no longer included. It has been replaced by a \u00abmild acid complex,\u00bb described as more gentle on the skin, for which SVR has filed a patent application\u2026<\/p>","protected":false},"author":120,"featured_media":75054,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-75041","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actualites"],"acf":[],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":1,"label":"Actualites"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/serum-1024x683.jpg",1024,683,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Sylvain David","author_link":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/author\/beautydecoded\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":1,"name":"Actualites","slug":"actualites","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":1,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":0,"count":350,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":1,"category_count":350,"category_description":"","cat_name":"Actualites","category_nicename":"actualites","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/75041","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/120"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=75041"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/75041\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":75060,"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/75041\/revisions\/75060"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/75054"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=75041"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=75041"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beautydecoded.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=75041"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}