Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid extracted from the bark of willow trees. Commonly used in skincare products and professional chemical peels for the treatment of acne, salicylic acid works by exfoliating dead skin cells—which helps keep the pores clear. This ingredient’s exfoliating benefits also help improve surface texture while enhancing skin radiance.

Dermatologists and skincare professionals often recommend salicylic acid for acne treatment because of its gentle exfoliating effect. By facilitating the shedding of dead cells, salicylic acid helps prevent pores from becoming clogged, which is one of the factors that contributes to acne formation. The exfoliating benefits of salicylic acid can also help improve the look and feel of skin, addressing other skin concerns such as rough surface texture, uneven skin tone, dark spots, and dullness.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is especially beneficial for those with oily skin. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid is oil-soluble—which means it is able to mix with oil and sebum found within the pores and on the surface of the skin. However, all skin types can benefit from salicylic acid and its gentle exfoliation that helps smooth surface texture, promote more even skin tone, and increase healthy-looking radiance.

Salicylic acid can be found in an array of different types of skincare products, including SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel and LHA Toner, as well as SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF vitamin C serum. These products are an ideal part of any skincare regimen designed to help address excess oil and promote exfoliation, and they can help prepare the skin for treatment products that follow.

SkinCeuticals also offers products combining salicylic acid with other ingredients to help improve the appearance of visible signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Blemish + Age Defense serum combines salicylic acid with dioic, lipo hydroxy, glycolic, and citric acids for gentle yet effective exfoliation that helps improve discoloration and other visible signs of aging.

To discover which salicylic acid skincare products are ideal for your specific needs and concerns, it’s best to consult with your skincare professional.

Yes. All SkinCeuticals products with salicylic acid have been tested and are proven to be well tolerated when used on the face.

Though ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, salicylic acid may not be appropriate for especially dry or sensitive skin. However, SkinCeuticals offers a wide array of results-driven products without salicylic acid to help improve specific skin concerns. A SkinCeuticals skincare professional can recommend a customized regimen of at-home skincare and professional treatments that are tailored for your unique skin’s needs.

Salicylic acid for the skin is recommended for those with oily and acne-prone skin.