I. Introduction
Unilong is a professional manufacturer and supplier of high-performance cosmetic ingredients, proudly offering Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (CAS 78418-01-6) – commonly known as LHA (Lipohydroxy Acid) – at 99% purity in powder form. As a next-generation derivative of salicylic acid, LHA delivers superior exfoliation with enhanced gentleness, making it the ideal choice for formulators seeking effective yet skin-friendly solutions for acne, aging, and uneven skin tone. With proven clinical efficacy and broad formulation compatibility, Unilong’s high-purity LHA empowers cosmetic brands to create innovative products that meet the growing consumer demand for safe, results-driven skincare.
II. Product Overview
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (INCI name), also known as 2-hydroxy-5-octanoylbenzoic acid or Lipohydroxy Acid (LHA), is a functional derivative of salicylic acid developed in the 1980s by L’Oréal. By incorporating an eight-carbon acyl chain onto the salicylic acid backbone, its lipophilicity is significantly increased, enhancing its penetration into the lipid-rich stratum corneum. This structural modification gives LHA a higher molecular weight and a distinct set of clinical characteristics that set it apart from conventional salicylic acid.
Why choose LHA over salicylic acid?
Unlike traditional salicylic acid (BHA) which penetrates rapidly and can cause irritation, LHA’s larger molecular structure and enhanced lipophilicity slow its penetration, resulting in a gentler, cell-by-cell exfoliation that mimics the skin’s natural desquamation process. In vitro studies show that only about 6% of capryloyl salicylic acid penetrates deeper than the stratum corneum after 16 hours, whereas salicylic acid penetrates up to 58% further. This controlled penetration allows LHA to deliver targeted exfoliation precisely where it is needed – within the outermost layers of the skin and the sebum-enriched infundibulum of pilosebaceous units.
III. Key Performance & Advantages
1.Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliation
LHA exhibits a unique keratolytic effect caused by the dissociation of corneodesmosomes in the outmost layers of the stratum corneum. Rather than causing widespread, aggressive peeling, LHA works by loosening individual corneocytes one by one, a mechanism that closely resembles physiological desquamation. This “cell-by-cell” approach makes LHA significantly less irritating than traditional chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid (AHA) and even salicylic acid, while still delivering visible skin renewal benefits.
2.Clinically Proven Efficacy
Numerous randomized, controlled clinical trials have compared LHA against glycolic acid and salicylic acid, providing quantitative differentiation data. Key findings include:
(1) Anti-aging: Topically applied 1% LHA formulation is associated with significant improvements in epidermal thickening, dendrocytic hyperplasia, and other epidermal and dermal manifestations of aging.
(2) Wrinkle reduction: A study showed significant improvement in wrinkles in 41% of subjects who regularly used an LHA peel, with 46% experiencing substantial lightening of hyperpigmentation – compared to only 31% and 34%, respectively, for those who used glycolic peels.
(3) Acne management: LHA has been shown to effectively resolve microcomedones by acting on follicular keratinocytes, reducing the follicular bacterial load.
3.Deep Pore Decongestion & Oil Control
Due to its lipophilic nature, LHA achieves maximum concentration inside the stratum corneum, particularly in the sebum-enriched infundibulum of pilosebaceous units. This allows it to effectively dissolve excess sebum, debris, and dead skin cells that accumulate within pores. It acts as both a keratolytic and comedolytic agent, resolving microcomedones and preventing their progression into inflammatory lesions.
4.Anti-Inflammatory & Skin Conditioning Properties
Beyond exfoliation, LHA possesses inherent anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin. It also functions as a skin-conditioning agent, enhancing skin thickness and stimulating collagen production—benefits that extend beyond surface-level renewal to support long-term skin health.
5. Formulation Versatility
As an oil-soluble cosmetic raw material, LHA offers exceptional formulation flexibility. It can be seamlessly integrated into various product types including serums, creams, lotions, cleansers, and anhydrous systems—a distinct advantage over water-soluble acids that are limited to aqueous formulations. This versatility makes LHA a valuable tool for formulators across all skincare categories.
6. High Purity Grade (99%)
Unilong supplies LHA at 99% purity, ensuring maximum potency and batch-to-batch consistency. High purity minimizes the presence of impurities that could compromise formulation stability or cause unwanted skin reactions, making it the preferred choice for premium cosmetic applications.
IV. Core Application Areas
1. Acne & Blemish-Prone Skin
LHA is a cornerstone ingredient in modern acne management. Its comedolytic action resolves microcomedones before they develop into visible blemishes. The gentle exfoliation mechanism clears clogged pores, reduces blackheads and whiteheads, and helps prevent future breakouts. When combined with benzoyl peroxide or topical antibiotics, LHA demonstrates enhanced efficacy in reducing acne lesions.
2. Anti-Aging & Skin Rejuvenation
LHA promotes epidermal thickening and stimulates collagen production, directly addressing the key hallmarks of skin aging. It is effective in reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and rough skin texture. Notably, formulations combining LHA with salicylic acid and glycolic acid deliver a “triple threat” treatment that removes excess residue and dead skin cells while purifying clogged pores.
3. Hyperpigmentation & Skin Brightening
LHA has demonstrated substantial efficacy in lightening hyperpigmentation, including age spots, sun spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. By accelerating cell turnover and promoting the shedding of pigmented corneocytes, it helps reveal brighter, more even-toned skin.
4. Oily & Combination Skin
LHA’s lipophilic nature makes it exceptionally effective for oily and combination skin types. It dissolves excess sebum, refines pore appearance, and helps balance oil production. Products formulated with LHA leave skin feeling clean, smooth, and matte without over-drying.
5. Sensitive Skin
One of LHA’s most compelling advantages is its suitability for sensitive skin. Unlike harsh exfoliants that can trigger redness and irritation, LHA provides effective exfoliation that is well tolerated even by sensitized skin. This makes it an excellent alternative for consumers who cannot tolerate traditional AHAs or BHAs.
6. Scalp & Hair Care
Emerging applications include scalp care products, where LHA helps remove dead skin cells and excess sebum that can contribute to dandruff and scalp irritation. It also functions as a hair-conditioning agent in certain formulations.
7. Professional Chemical Peels
At higher concentrations, LHA is used in professional chemical peel treatments. Clinical studies show that LHA peels produce significant wrinkle improvement and hyperpigmentation reduction, with better tolerability profiles compared to glycolic acid peels.
III. Technical Specifications
|
ITEM |
STANDARD |
|
Appearance |
White powder |
|
Assay |
≥98.0% |
|
Melting Range |
113-117℃ |
|
Content of Salicylic Acid |
≤0.02% |
|
Solubility |
Clear |
IV. Why Choose Unilong?
Unilong is a dedicated manufacturer and supplier of high-purity cosmetic ingredients. Our Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA) at 99% purity is manufactured to the highest quality standards, ensuring:
· Consistent quality: Rigorous quality control across every batch
· High purity (99%): Maximum potency for premium formulations
· Competitive pricing: Cost-effective solutions without compromising quality
· Reliable supply: Stable production capacity for both R&D samples and bulk orders
· Technical support: Formulation guidance and application expertise
· Customization options: Flexible packaging and specifications available upon request
As the global Capryloyl Salicylic Acid market continues to grow, Unilong is positioned as a trusted partner for cosmetic brands seeking high-quality, innovative ingredients.
V. Contact Information
Whether you are formulating acne treatments, anti-aging serums, brightening products, or professional peel solutions, Unilong’s high-purity LHA (99%) delivers the gentle yet effective exfoliation your formulations need.
Post time: Jul-29-2026



