Salicylic Acid
Dermatology
In plain English
Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble exfoliant used for acne, blackheads, and oily skin, and as an in-office chemical peel. Because it dissolves in oil, it gets into clogged pores and clears them, and it calms inflammation. In peel strengths it is applied by a professional in a series of sessions.
The science
Salicylic acid is a lipophilic phenolic (aromatic) acid — often grouped with beta-hydroxy acids — that is comedolytic and anti-inflammatory and penetrates the sebaceous follicle. As a 20-30% peel it improves mild-to-moderate acne; a split-face randomized comparison found salicylic and glycolic peels similarly effective, with salicylic showing more sustained effect and fewer adverse events.
References
- Arif T, salicylic acid as a peeling agent (comprehensive review), Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2015
- Kessler E et al., comparison of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid peels in facial acne, Dermatol Surg 2008
This page is educational and is not medical advice.
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after reviewing your medical history.