B Calm

A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturising cream for oily and breakout-prone skin. It combines niacinamide 5% and salicylic acid 2% with ceramides, cholesterol and hyaluronic acid at pH 5 to 5.5.

Yes. Oily, breakout-prone skin is the first skin type ESK lists for it. It is a light cream rather than a rich one, niacinamide helps balance the look of shine, and it is non-comedogenic.

Usually, yes. Oily skin can still be dehydrated, especially if you use acids or prescription acne treatments, and skipping moisturiser often leaves it tight and easily irritated. The answer is a light, non-comedogenic moisturiser rather than none.

It is made for oily and breakout-prone skin. ESK formulates it for irritable and blemish-prone skin: salicylic acid is the usual acid for oily, congestion-prone skin, niacinamide helps with the look of oiliness and redness, and ceramides support the barrier. It supports a breakout routine; it does not replace medical treatment for moderate or severe acne.

Yes. ESK lists B Calm as non-comedogenic, meaning it is formulated not to block pores.

Niacinamide is vitamin B3. In skincare it supports the skin barrier and helps reduce water loss, helps balance the look of oily skin and redness, and is studied for the look of uneven tone. It is commonly used in routines for sensitive and reactive skin.

Yes. Balancing the look of oily skin is one of the main reasons people use it, and 5% is a commonly studied strength.

It is a supporting ingredient rather than an acne treatment. It is mainly used for the look of oiliness and redness in blemish-prone skin. In B Calm it works alongside salicylic acid 2%, which works within the pores.

Niacinamide is not an exfoliant, so it is not expected to cause a purge. Salicylic acid can bring existing congestion to the surface in the first few weeks. New spots in places you do not usually break out, stinging or lasting redness are a sign to stop and message us.

Yes. Niacinamide is often paired with retinoids because it supports the barrier while you build up. ESK says that on nights you use a retinal night cream you do not need B Calm as well, but you can use both if you want to.

Yes. The old advice to keep them apart came from early studies with conditions that do not apply to modern skincare. Apply your vitamin C serum first, let it settle, then B Calm.

Thinnest texture first. A hyaluronic acid serum such as Hydraboost goes on first, then B Calm as the moisturiser, then SPF in the morning.

Usually, yes. Introduce one product at a time so you can tell which one your skin is reacting to if it gets irritated.

Most studies of niacinamide on the skin run for 4 to 12 weeks. Give it at least 4 weeks of daily use before judging shine, and 8 to 12 weeks before judging congestion and texture.

Yes. B Calm combines them in one formula at pH 5 to 5.5. Avoid adding another leave-on salicylic acid product on top, which is more likely to irritate than to help.

Yes, they are designed to work together: Hydroxy Cleanser first, then B Calm. Both contain salicylic acid, so if your skin gets dry, use the cleanser once a day rather than twice.

ESK lists B Calm as suitable for sensitive skin and rosacea-prone skin. It contains a leave-on acid, so introduce it gradually and patch test first if your skin reacts easily. For redness without breakouts, B Quenched is the gentler option.

ESK says it suits all skin types, but it is a light cream made for oily skin. If your skin is dry rather than oily, a richer barrier moisturiser such as Repair + is usually more comfortable.

Yes. It is suitable for all skin types, including deeper skin tones (Fitzpatrick V to VI). On deeper skin, irritation can leave marks that outlast the spot, so a moisturiser that supports the barrier is part of keeping breakouts from leaving marks.

No. It does not change your natural skin colour. Niacinamide is studied for the look of uneven tone, such as dark marks left after spots, which is a different thing. For marks as your main concern, see the Golden Pigmentation Duo.

ESK does not publish pregnancy guidance for B Calm. It contains salicylic acid 2%, a leave-on BHA, so ask your midwife, GP or pharmacist before using it while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Yes. ESK's instructions lead with the morning, before sunscreen, and the pack is marked for morning and night. On nights you use a retinal night cream, B Calm is optional.

Yes. ESK says it can also be used on the décolletage, the backs of the hands and the forearms.

No fragrance or essential oils appear in its ingredient list. It is also free from parabens and sulphates.

Ask your prescriber first. Treatments such as isotretinoin, tretinoin, adapalene and benzoyl peroxide often leave skin dry and sensitive, and your prescriber may prefer a moisturiser without salicylic acid while you are on them.

Salicylic acid is a salicylate, the same family as aspirin. If you are allergic to aspirin, avoid B Calm and ask your pharmacist for an alternative.

The 50ml full size lasts around 3 to 4 months. The 15ml travel size lasts around 3 to 4 weeks.

Yes. ESK states that B Calm is cruelty free and vegan.

Yes. Melatone Skin Clinic is an authorised ESK stockist. Stock comes directly from ESK, so every item is genuine and traceable, and it is the same product we use in clinic.

Yes. Message us on WhatsApp with a description of your skin, or book a skin assessment at the clinic in Battersea.

Tracked UK delivery is £3.49, or free over £65, and usually arrives in 2 to 4 working days. Sealed, unopened items can be returned within 60 days for a refund.