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Salicylic acid: Benefits, uses and side effects for skin

Looking to help manage acne and reduce blackheads? Salicylic acid may be just what you’re searching for.

Published: June 6, 2024 |4 minute read

Written by: Brienne Walsh

A person applying cleanser to their face.

Salicylic acid has been in the spotlight recently as an aid for clearer skin. It can help manage acne, psoriasis, warts and other skin symptoms. Let's get into it.

En este artículo:

What is salicylic acid and what does it do?

Salicylic acid is an ingredient found in many over-the-counter skin products. It helps the skin's natural exfoliation process.1 Used topically for more than 2,000 years,2 salicylic acid works by penetrating the outermost layers of the skin and breaking the attachments between skin cells. That action can help remove blockages such as blackheads and whiteheads. Because dead cells are removed, skin feels smoother.3 Salicylic acid also removes intercellular lipids4 — part of the oily substance that causes acne.

Thanks to all of these properties, salicylic acid is used to manage conditions like acne and psoriasis.5 It can help stop new acne from forming and is sometimes used to reduce the size of calluses and warts6 by sloughing off the skin around them.

Salicylic acid is found in a wide variety of over-the-counter products and medications, including acne medications, facial cleansers, skin peels, and topical wart and psoriasis treatments.7

How to use salicylic acid

Given that salicylic acid comes in a wide variety of concentrations, it's important to discuss with a health care provider before choosing and using - and to follow the instructions on the label of the product first and foremost. But here are some general considerations:8

  • When using salicylic acid as an exfoliant: Apply the product to the skin in a thin layer with a washcloth and use small, circular movements. Do this for 30 seconds, and then wash off with lukewarm - but not hot - water.9 Follow with moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.10
  • If using topically for pimples: Use a warm washcloth to soak the area for 10 to 15 minutes 3 times a day. This helps brings the pimple closer to the skin's surface. Then apply the salicylic acid product to the area in a thin layer.11 Large, painful pimples that sit deep in your skin or acne that leaves a scar when it clears often require treatment by a dermatologist.12

Note that salicylic acid can make skin more susceptible to damage from the sun, so it’s a good idea to use it along with sunscreen.13

Always use products as directed on the package or label, and if you have any adverse reaction, immediately stop use and contact your health care provider.

Using salicylic acid with a retinoid

Retinol, a type of retinoid related to vitamin A,14 is a group of products that helps keep pores from clogging, spurs faster turnover of surface skin cells and stimulates collagen production.15 When combined with salicylic acid, it can help reduce inflammatory lesions caused by acne.16

Use of either compound can cause dryness and irritation to the skin. Consider using a moisturizer after using exfoliants to help combat dry skin. Always consult product labels and use as directed. Talk to your health care provider before using retinol or salicylic acid and contact them immediately if you experience side effects.

Salicylic acid side effects

Salicylic acid is generally safe when applied topically to the skin. Common side effects include:

  • Crusting
  • Sequedad
  • Enrojecimiento
  • Skin discoloration17
  • Stinging

If you experience any of these symptoms after applying salicylic acid, discontinue use and consult a health care professional.

It can be toxic if ingested in large amounts or cause irritation if it gets in your eyes.18 Topical salicylic acid has been associated with rare but serious hypersensitivity reactions. These can occur from minutes to a day after use. Stop using the product and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any difficulty breathing, facial swelling or throat tightness.

Is salicylic acid good for acne?

Salicylic acid is used to help manage acne because it removes blockages from hair follicles and cells, as well as decreases the production of oil in skin that can cause acne.

Can salicylic acid cause acne?

Salicylic acid may cause a temporary increase of acne as it begins to stimulate cell turnover.19 In the long term, however, it has been proven to reduce acne. It may also cause redness and irritation.

Can you use salicylic acid with vitamin C?

Yes, the combination of the two ingredients is generally considered to be an effective way to reduce the appearance of dark spots on the skin. However, introducing both compounds should be done slowly. Any side effects should be monitored and reported to a health care provider.20

Is salicylic acid safe during pregnancy?

Nonprescription topical salicylic acid acne treatment is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used for a limited time. However, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding, you should speak with your health care provider before using salicylic acid.21,22,23 Remember to read the product label for use and safety information. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding, always speak to your health care provider before adding anything new to your routine.24

Is salicylic acid an exfoliant?

Yes, it breaks apart the barriers that hold skin cells together, helping the epidermis to slough off dead skin cells.

Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.