ILLIYOON Cica Acne Clear Body Wash — Gel Purifiant Dos 400ml

This body gel contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), an FDA-approved concentration for treating body breakouts. Unlike water-soluble AHAs, BHA is oil-soluble: it penetrates pores clogged with sebum to dislodge comedones and blackheads where they form — back, shoulders, décolleté.

AHA-BHA-PHA trio for a controlled peeling effect : lactic acid (AHA) exfoliates the surface, glycolic acid accelerates cell renewal, and gluconolactone (PHA) smooths without stinging — ideal for areas sensitive to friction.

Centella Asiatica in four molecular forms (madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, asiatic acid): this redundancy is not marketing. Each molecule targets a different stage of the inflammatory cycle — an approach found in prescription dermatological care.

Phytosphingosine : a lipid identical to those in the intercellular cement. A 2007 study demonstrated its action against the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes, with an anti-inflammatory profile that complements the mechanical action of BHA.

Lauric acid : this often overlooked fatty acid has documented antibacterial activity. A 2009 study shows its minimum inhibitory concentration against P. acnes is 15 times lower than that of benzoyl peroxide — without the drying effect.

🚿 Daily shower routine

1. Wet your back and shoulders with lukewarm water — not hot, to avoid worsening inflammation.
2. Put a small amount of gel in your palm or on a back applicator (avoid rough sponges that spread bacteria).
3. Massage in circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds: BHA needs contact time to work.
4. Rinse thoroughly. If you use conditioner, apply it after washing your back to avoid comedogenic residue.

🌡️ Usage frequency

Once a day is enough — preferably in the evening after exercise or sweating. If you’re new to acids, start 3 times a week then gradually increase. If you have very sensitive skin or irritation in certain areas, apply the product directly with your hands rather than with an exfoliating glove..

⚡ Recommended synergy

The same brand offers a body mist from the Cica Acne line: used together, the two products create a visible synergy by maintaining a slightly acidic pH between showers.

Target profiles:

• Recurrent bacne — mechanical acne (back, shoulder blades, buttocks) worsened by sports, backpacks, synthetic clothing.
• Excessive body sebum production — if your back is oily by the end of the day, especially in summer or humid climates.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — the product improves uneven skin texture in 7 days and reduces dark marks left by old lesions.
• Acne-prone skin treated on the face — to extend your BHA routine to the whole body without multiplying products.

⚠️ Adjust if:

• Active eczema or psoriasis flare-up (acids can irritate) — wait for remission.
• Body rosacea or couperose: the menthol in the formula may cause flushing.
• Pregnancy: topical BHAs are generally considered safe, but consult your doctor if you use them daily on large areas.

Documented results:

This cleanser is a clinically tested functional cosmetic to improve back acne in 7 days — a rare claim for a rinse-off product. It offers 99.8% antibacterial activity against three strains involved in acne (C. acnes, M. restricta, S. aureus).

What you can actually observe:

• 3-5 days : feeling of less congested skin, visible reduction of raised micro-pimples.
• 1 week : reduction of post-lesional redness, smoother skin texture to the touch.
• 2-3 weeks : spacing out of new breakouts, especially in friction areas (bra straps, back of chair).

Texture and finish:

The gel foams generously despite its gentle base, with a refreshing sensation upon rinsing due to menthol. No sticky film or greasy residue — skin stays fresh without tightness, even on combination to oily skin that fears the "too rich soap" effect.

Won't the 2% BHA dry out my skin?

No, as long as you properly moisturize after showering. Unlike typical stripping shower gels, this one contains multi-molecular weight hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to compensate. If you feel tightness, apply a light body lotion within 3 minutes after showering — when the epidermis is most receptive.

Can I use it on my face?

Technically yes (the formula is hypoallergenic), but the menthol can sting on thin or reactive facial skin. If you're looking for a BHA facial cleanser, choose a product specifically formulated without a refreshing note — your face doesn’t need the “tonic shower gel” effect.

How long does the 400 ml bottle last?

Between 2.5 and 4 months with daily use on the back and shoulders (about 3-4 pumps per shower). Longer if you alternate with a regular shower gel or only use it on problem areas.

What’s the difference compared to a mechanical exfoliant (scrub)?

Chemical exfoliation (BHA/AHA) penetrates pores; mechanical exfoliation (grains) works on the surface and can micro-traumatize active pimples, spreading inflammation. Both are complementary: use this gel daily and a gentle scrub no more than once a week.

Can I continue my oral acne treatments (isotretinoin, antibiotics)?

Yes, but under supervision. If you’re on dermatological treatment, start with 2-3 uses per week to assess tolerance. Isotretinoin makes the skin thinner and more vulnerable — avoid combining this gel with other topical exfoliating actives on the same day.

Does it work on hormonal acne?

BHA doesn’t correct the underlying hormonal imbalance, but it limits visible consequences: by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation, it helps prevent cysts and nodules that hormonal acne often triggers on the back and jawline. Complement with an appropriate routine prescribed by your dermatologist if the acne is deep.

ILLIYOON is a dermocosmetic brand from the AmorePacific conglomerate, launched in 2017 after more than 40 years of research on sensitive skin. Unlike K-beauty lines focused on glow and color, ILLIYOON follows a pharmaceutical approach: repairing the skin barrier before seeking radiance.

Its identity is based on patented ceramide complexes (Ceramide Ato Complex, Ceramide Skin Complex) that mimic the natural lipid structure of the epidermis — an approach found in hospital protocols for post-burn or post-laser care.

The more recent Cica Acne Clear line extends this expertise to body breakouts: it maintains the brand’s hypoallergenic philosophy while incorporating keratolytic actives (BHA, AHA, PHA) to treat imperfections without compromising skin integrity. An intelligent formulation for skin that wants to treat acne and while preserving their barrier — two goals often opposed in conventional acne care.

Discover the entire ILLIYOON range

Complete INCI list:

Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Lauric Acid, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Cocamide MEA, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance, Menthol, Di-C12-13 Alkyl Malate, Sodium Sulfite, Sodium Metaphosphate, Gluconolactone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Linalool, Lactic Acid, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Hexyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Limonene, Ascorbic Acid, Betaine, Phytosphingosine, Citric Acid, Glycolic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Panax Ginseng Root Water, Propanediol, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Madecassoside, Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Tocopherol, Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex, Asiatic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate

Key active ingredients explained:

• Salicylic Acid (BHA) : lipophilic keratolytic, deeply unclogs pores.
• Lactic Acid + Glycolic Acid (AHA) : surface exfoliation, accelerated cell renewal.
• Gluconolactone (PHA) : gentle exfoliant with large molecules, better tolerated than classic AHAs.
• 4 Centella derivatives (madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, asiatic acid): multi-target anti-inflammatory cascade.
• Niacinamide : regulates sebum production, reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• 5 forms of hyaluronic acid : multi-level hydration to offset the potential drying effect of acids.
• Phytosphingosine : antimicrobial lipid, strengthens the barrier while reducing pathogenic bacteria.

Free from: parabens, harsh sulfates (SLS/SLES), silicones. The cleansing base uses a sugar-derived surfactant (caprylyl/capryl glucoside) for gentle yet effective cleansing.