BP―SA Niacinamide Salicylate Complex
The key to younger-looking skin
TECHNICAL
BULLETIN
INCI Name: Salicylic Acid (and) Niacinamide (and) of niacinamide and salicylic acid by first forming
Polydextrose (and) Dextrin (and) Amylopectin a pre-neutralized inner salt of the two molecules
and then rapidly spray-drying the two molecules
Key Benefits: at a 1:1 ratio with a small amount (1%) of a
• Reduces sebum production
polysaccharide encapsulant. We call this BP―SA
• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces hyperpigmentation Niacinamide Salicylate Complex.
• Possesses anti-inflammatory properties
• Reduces hyper-keratinization of
sebaceous ducts
• Reduces bacterial count
Background
Niacinamide (called nicotinamide) is a water-
soluble, B-Vitamin and functions in cosmetic
formulations as a hair and skin conditioning agent
or anti-inflammatory agent. It can reduce the
redness, dryness, and irritation caused by bacteria
that live in the clogged pores of pimples. The main Product Applications:
benefits of niacinamide in cosmetic applications • Skin care products for sensitive skin
are anti-acne, anti-inflammation, and reduction • Skin treatment products targeting
troubled and acne-prone skin
of hyperpigmentation.1,2
• Skin brightening products
Salicylic acid has been introduced in various
cosmetic products based on its different effects
on the skin. Historically, it has been used to improve
References
xerotic and scaly skin conditions. The main benefits 1
Forbat E, Al-Niaimi F, Ali FR. Use of nicotinamide in dermatology.
Clin Exp Dermatol. 2017;42(2):137-144.
of salicylic acid in cosmetic applications are anti- 2
Philips N, Chalensouk-Khaosaat J, Gonzalez S. Simulation of the
acne, anti-microbial, and keratolytic.3 elastin and fibrillin in non-irradiated or UVA radiated fibroblasts,
and direct inhibition of elastase or matrix metalloproteinase
activity by nicotinamide or its derivatives. J Cosmet Sci.
Product Information 2018;69:47-56
3
Arif T. Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: a comprehensive review.
BotanicalsPlus has developed a unique complex Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015;8:455-61
www.BotanicalsPlus.com
Typical Properties
White to pale yellow
Appearance @ 25°C
powder
Odor Characteristic
pH (*4-10) 4.0 – 6.0
Content of Salicylic Acid 46.0 – 54.0% (**w/w)
Loss on Drying 10.0% Max.
Heavy Metals 20 ppm Max.
Arsenic 2 ppm Max.
Microbial Content <100 cfu/g)
Recommended Use Level 1 – 5%
Niacinamide Salicylate Inner Salt Structure
Pre-neutralization of the salicylic acid by niacinamide forms a complex salt structure called an ‘inner
salt’.
NH2
O N+
H
-
O
OH
Advantages of BP-SA Niacinamide Salicylate Complex
Pre-neutralization to form the inner salt and encapsulation allows for creating a complex that is highly
water-soluble (up to 50% in water) without the re-crystallization of salicylic acid. The complexation of
niacinamide with salicylic acid through prior formation of the inner salt helps to stabilize the niacinamide
against hydrolysis. The inner salt, while offering a “pre-neutralized” salicylic acid, does not significantly
reduce the efficacy of the salicylic acid as a keralytic agent. The complex also brings along the
significant benefits of niacinamide unlike neutralization with NaOH or amines.
Difficulties Formulating with Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid
Niacinamide is known to be sensitive to hydrolysis.4 If niacinamide hydrolyzes, it provides an “amine”
odor which is easily detectable by the human nose. Salicylic acid has solubility concerns in water and
must be neutralized (NaOH, amines) to attain adequate water solubility. But, when neutralized, it may
lose some of its potency. Un-neutralized salicylic acid is prone to re-crystallization in formulations.
References
4
Finholt P, Higuchi T. Rate studies on the hydrolysis of niacinamide. J Pharm Sci. 1962;51:655-61
Product Efficacy: Anti-Microbial Effects
The effect of 4% BP―SA Niacinamide Salicylate Complex against Propionibacterium acnes collected
from a volunteer with acne plated onto RCM (Reinforced Clostridial Medium) Agar. "After Treatment" is
shown after 24 hours of growth. Plate demonstrates that the complex maintains antimicrobial efficacy
at 2% Salicylic Acid.
Product Efficacy: Acne Benefits
Volunteer applied a serum containing 4% BP―SA Niacinamide Salicylate Complex on her acne lesions
twice a day for 2 weeks. An improvement of the appearance of the lesions was observed. The product
also shows indications of skin brightening as might be anticipated with niacinamide.
Summary
BP―SA Niacinamide Salicylate Complex is an effective ingredient in the treatment of sensitive skin,
acne-prone skin, and skin with hyperpigmentation, as is evidenced by the studies.
O
NH2
O N+
H
-
O
OH
JEEN International is the exclusive distributor for BotanicalsPlus in the Personal Care Industry.
163 East Main Street, Suite #273
Little Falls, New Jersey 07424 ─ USA
tel: (973) 439-1417 info@BotanicalsPlus.com www.BotanicalsPlus.com
BP-SA Niacinamide Salicylate Complex TB ver 1.0
