Interactive Routine Timeline

Tap or click each step to reveal dermatologist-style tips on cleanser, COSRX BHA, moisturizer, sunscreen, and weekly clay masking.

COSRX BHA Step for Blackheads

COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid uses betaine salicylate, a gentle oil‑soluble exfoliant that helps dissolve buildup inside pores and minimize blackheads over time.

How much to apply

• Start with 1 pump into clean, dry hands and spread into a thin film over the T‑zone or blackhead‑prone areas; add a second pump only if you cannot cover the face.
• If using a cotton pad, you may need 4–6 pumps to lightly saturate it before swiping over the skin.

When to apply & timing

• Apply only on dry skin after cleansing in the evening; avoid eye area and lips.
• Let it absorb for 5–15 minutes before layering essence or moisturizer so the BHA can work inside pores without being diluted.

Usage frequency for blackhead‑prone skin

• Week 1–2: Use 1 time per week at night to test tolerance, especially if skin is sensitive.
• Week 3+: Increase to 2–3 nights per week as long as you do not see stinging, flaking, or burning; do not use on consecutive nights if skin feels tight.

Patch test instructions

• Apply a pea‑sized amount to a small area (side of jaw or behind ear) 24 hours before first full‑face use.
• A mild tingle is common; wash off and avoid full use if you see intense burning, swelling, or hives.

Step‑by‑Step Morning Routine

The morning routine focuses on gentle cleansing, hydration, and strict sunscreen, which is essential when using any BHA exfoliant to reduce sensitivity and prevent dark marks.

1. Cleanser (AM)

• Use a gentle, low‑pH gel or cream cleanser for 30–60 seconds on damp skin, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
• Avoid harsh physical scrubs or cleansing brushes, which can inflame pores and worsen blackhead visibility.

2. Optional hydrating toner or essence

• Apply a hydrating toner or essence with humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to support moisture without clogging pores.
• Press gently into skin instead of rubbing if you are using BHA at night to keep the barrier calm.

3. Lightweight moisturizer

• Choose a non‑comedogenic gel‑cream with ingredients such as niacinamide or ceramides to support barrier health while controlling shine.
• Apply a nickel‑sized amount over face and neck, focusing on areas that feel tight or flaky.

4. Sunscreen (essential with BHA)

• Use a broad‑spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every morning; apply 2–3 fingers’ worth to face and neck as the final step.
• Reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors, as BHA can make skin more sun‑sensitive even if applied at night.

Step‑by‑Step Evening Routine

The evening routine pairs COSRX BHA with barrier‑friendly support products and alternates with a weekly clay mask to decongest without over‑exfoliating.

1. Cleanser (PM)

• If wearing makeup or heavy sunscreen, remove with a mild cleansing balm or oil, then follow with a gentle water‑based cleanser.
• Avoid “scrub” cleansers containing physical grit when you already use BHA to reduce irritation risk.

2. COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid (PM, 1–3×/week)

• On fully dry skin, apply 1–2 pumps of COSRX BHA with your hands or a cotton pad to the T‑zone, nose, chin, and any clogged areas, avoiding eye and lip area.
• Leave on; do not rinse. Wait 5–15 minutes before applying the next step so the BHA can penetrate and dissolve pore debris.

3. Essence or serum (non‑exfoliating)

• Layer a calming essence or serum with niacinamide, centella, or panthenol on top of BHA nights to offset potential dryness.
• Avoid additional exfoliating acids or strong acne treatments in this slot when using BHA.

4. Moisturizer (PM)

• Use a slightly richer cream on BHA nights, focusing on ceramides, squalane, or fatty acids to support the skin barrier.
• If you notice peeling or burning, decrease BHA nights and prioritize moisturizer for at least a week.

5. Weekly clay mask night (instead of BHA)

• Once weekly, or as tolerated, swap your BHA night for a gentle clay mask applied only to congested areas for 5–10 minutes, then rinse and moisturize.
• Do not use BHA, retinoids, or other strong actives on the same night as your clay mask to avoid over‑drying.

Compatible Ingredients vs What Not to Mix

Pairing COSRX BHA with hydrating and barrier‑supporting ingredients enhances results, but stacking too many actives can trigger irritation and barrier damage.

Vitamin C serums can be used in a separate routine (for example, vitamin C in the morning and BHA on alternate evenings) to reduce pH conflicts and sensitivity.