Side by side
Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid vs 10% azelaic acid
Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
18 positive (58%) · 8 mixed (26%) · 5 negative (16%)
Trust + time weighted: +57%
AI summary — not a quote
The Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid is widely regarded as a gentle, entry-level chemical exfoliant effective for clearing clogged pores and improving skin texture. Unlike more aggressive BHA treatments, it uses betaine salicylate, making it a popular recommendation for those with sensitive skin or those new to acids. While generally well-received, users emphasize that it requires consistent use over several weeks to see results and can still cause significant dryness or peeling if over-applied.
Pros
- Gentle formula suitable for sensitive skin and beginners
- Effective at clearing forehead bumps and congested pores
- Contains niacinamide which helps with skin texture
- Less irritating than high-strength salicylic acid treatments
Cons
- Can cause skin peeling and extreme dryness if used daily or too frequently
- May cause an initial 'purging' period or breakouts for some users
- Some users find it too weak for significant oil control compared to stronger BHAs
- Results are not immediate, often requiring 6-8 weeks of consistent use
Top excerpts
I think the only thing you might benefit from might be some gentle chemical exfoliation like Cosrx BHA blackhead power liquid (gentle BHA + niacinamide) or The Ordinary's 10% lactic acid serum w/ hyaluronic acid.
The Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid is a fantastic, gentle K-beauty option.
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid → 2×/week instead of Kiehl’s
Example: COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Why: This is the key step for forehead bumps and clogged pores. It goes inside pores and clears them.
I bought these products and started using them: (not daily) Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
10% azelaic acid
10 positive (83%) · 1 mixed (8%) · 1 negative (8%)
Trust + time weighted: +70%
Top excerpts
Daily 10% azelaic acid fixed it for me. Use it as a spot treatment for the red areas after cleansing skin and dabbing dry. A thin layer of moisturizer on top only (no toner, no serum, less is more with these areas, no other exfoliants; less is more for these areas).
For acne, maybe try azelaic acid 10% a few nights a week since it’s usually eczema friendly and helps with texture + dark marks.
I’ve tried 10% azelaic acid once a day for about 2 months, but I feel like it hasn’t done much.
Overall the Tret was a game changer but I’m so happy I started on the Azelaic acid because it really helped with the redness and inflammation.
I also implemented Azelaic Acid (10%) every morning and every other night, overlapping Aklief two weeks ago. Mostly for the PIE.