Behind The Breakthrough: Dr. Sally Noushini On Our Latest Acne Innovation

For years, acne treatments followed a familiar formula: exfoliate, dry and clear. 

The goal was simple. Remove excess oil, unclog pores and reduce breakouts as quickly as possible. 

But our understanding of acne has changed. 

Today, we realise blemish-prone skin is rarely just congested. It can also be sensitive, reactive and impacted by changes to the skin barrier and microbiome. 

Which means acne care needs to do more than simply target the breakout. It needs to support the skin through the process, too.  

To understand the science behind our latest innovation, we asked our Head of Research & Development, Dr Sally Noushini, to take us behind the formula of Z Clear Shikimic Hydroxy-Biome Facial Serum. 

Why did we develop Z Clear Shikimic Hydroxy-Biome Facial Serum? 

"For us, the opportunity was to move beyond traditional drying acne targeting products and create something that addresses blemish-prone skin more holistically," explains Dr Sally. 

Designed to target congestion, excess dead skin cell build-up and microbiome imbalance, the formula helps improve skin clarity while supporting overall skin comfort. 

Why was Shikimic Acid chosen as the hero ingredient? 

Not all exfoliating acids behave the same way. 

"Shikimic Acid provides exfoliating benefits while maintaining a high level of tolerability, making it particularly suitable for blemish-prone skin that may also be in need of barrier support," says Dr Sally. 

Its ability to support visible skin renewal without stripping the skin made it a natural choice for the formula. And when paired with other carefully selected actives, the results are even more impressive. 

Why combine multiple exfoliating acids instead of relying on one? 

Acne is rarely driven by a single factor. 

That's why the Hydroxy-Biome System combines Shikimic Acid, Mandelic Acid and Salicylic Acid to work across multiple pathways involved in congestion. 

"Together, they help promote skin cell turnover, reduce the build-up of dead skin cells that may clog the pores," says Dr Sally. 

The result is a more comprehensive approach to skin clarity, working from the surface through to the pore. Smarter, more targeted and ultimately more effective. 

Why was microbiome support so important? 

As our understanding of skin health evolves, so too does our understanding of the microbiome. 

To support this delicate ecosystem, the formula incorporates dual prebiotics, Inulin and Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, alongside Polylysine. 

Rather than focusing solely on visible breakouts, the formula was designed to support a healthier skin environment overall. 

How did we balance efficacy with skin comfort? 

"Maintaining skin comfort was an important consideration throughout development," says Dr Sally. 

To achieve this balance, the formula combines targeted exfoliation with ingredients including Niacinamide, Sodium PCA and Centella asiatica extract to help support hydration and skin conditioning. 

The philosophy was simple: clear the congestion while respecting the skin. The result? A more considered approach to visible skin clarity.  

What does the future of acne care look like? 

"One of the most exciting shifts in modern acne skincare is moving beyond the idea that breakouts need to be managed through aggressive treatment alone," says Dr Sally. 

"Today's consumers are looking for products that not only address visible blemishes, but also support hydration, skin comfort and overall skin health."