The most important ingredients

Salicylic acid

The only fat-soluble fruit acid (BHA) - can penetrate into the pores, where water-based acids cannot reach.

Function: Can unclog pores, clear blemishes and soothe irritated skin.

Glycolic acid

The smallest fruit acid (AHA) - can penetrate especially deep into the skin and loosen dead cells.

Function: Can accelerate skin renewal, ease pigment spots and refine skin texture.

Mandelic acid

Gentle fruit acid (AHA) from bitter almonds - larger molecules than glycolic acid, therefore milder.

Function: Can loosen dead skin cells and refine skin texture - also suitable for sensitive skin.

Application

After cleansing take a pad and stroke over face and neck. Avoid the eye area. Do not rinse.

Morning and evening use. Controls excess sebum and refines pores.

Frequently asked questions

What makes Oil Control Pads stronger than Complexion Renewal Pads?

2 % salicylic acid — the highest concentration available OTC. Complexion Renewal Pads contain 0.5 % salicylic acid and glycolic acid (a combination formula). Oil Control Pads are the targeted choice for oily, acne-prone skin — while Complexion Renewal Pads are more suitable for combination skin or first-time chemical exfoliation.

Why is 2 % the highest concentration of salicylic acid I can buy OTC?

In many countries, 2 % salicylic acid is the OTC maximum (over-the-counter, i.e. without prescription). Higher concentrations are considered medical treatments and are reserved for licensed professionals. 2 % is clinically effective for acne and pore treatment while remaining safe for home use.

Can I use Oil Control Pads daily?

Yes, morning and evening if your skin tolerates it well. Salicylic acid is lipophilic (fat-soluble), which means it penetrates directly into the pores and dissolves sebum there. With daily use, pores stay continuously clean. If you experience dryness or irritation, reduce to once daily or every other day.

How does salicylic acid differ from glycolic acid in these pads?

Salicylic acid is lipophilic — it penetrates into oily pores and dissolves sebum. Glycolic acid is hydrophilic (water-soluble) and works on the skin surface, dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. Salicylic acid is more effective for blackheads, oily skin, and clogged pores. Glycolic acid is better for surface texture and pigmentation. The combination in Complexion Renewal Pads covers both mechanisms simultaneously.

Can Oil Control Pads also help with acne?

Yes, they are acne prevention. Salicylic acid removes the sebum and dead skin cell debris that combine to form comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) — the precursors to pimples. With consistent use, fewer new spots form. They are not a treatment for active, inflamed acne lesions — for those, please consult a specialist.

About the brand

ZO Skin Health was developed by Dr. Zein Obagi - one of the world's most renowned dermatologists, with over 35 years of research in Beverly Hills. His principle: the skin is not “repaired” from the outside; instead, the cells themselves are activated. Because collagen, elastin and cell renewal decline with age, ZO products work in a targeted way across different skin layers - as system skincare following established treatment protocols, not as a single product.

Transparency & Mandatory Information

Ingredients (INCI)

Aqua, Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Urea, Hamamelis Virginiana Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract, Pterocarpus Soyauxii Wood Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Hordeum Distichon Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Spiraea Ulmaria Extract, Menthyl Lactate, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, t-Butyl Alcohol, Denatonium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool

Instructions for use

Contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and/or beta hydroxy acids (BHA) which may increase skin photosensitivity. Use sunscreen, limit sun exposure and wear protective clothing - during use and for one week afterwards.

Product Safety & Contact

NOVVIA GmbH ,

Am Lohmühlbach 17
85356 Freising
Deutschland
,

info@NOVVIA.de , +49 8161 96994-0