- Salicylic acid helps treat acne, warts, calluses, dandruff, and psoriasis by exfoliating the skin, clearing pores, and reducing oil and inflammation.
- It’s available in creams, gels, soaps, shampoos, and peels, with dermatologists using stronger forms for deep exfoliation and dark spot reduction.
- Though generally safe, salicylic acid can irritate sensitive skin and should be used as directed, avoiding high concentrations or use during pregnancy.
Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid that’s commonly used to treat skin conditions like acne, blackheads, calluses, warts, dandruff, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It works by gently exfoliating the skin, clearing clogged pores, and reducing inflammation and bacteria that can cause breakouts.
You can find salicylic acid in many over-the-counter products, including creams, lotions, gels, soaps, and shampoos, in a variety of concentrations. Dermatologists may also use stronger forms of this ingredient in chemical peels to help fade dark spots and smooth fine lines.
Because it’s a potent active ingredient, salicylic acid should always be used as directed by a dermatologist or according to product instructions to prevent irritation or overuse.
Indications for use
Salicylic acid is widely used for:
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Acne and pimples
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Dark spots or uneven skin tone
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Calluses and corns
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Warts
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Psoriasis
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Chronic atopic dermatitis
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Eczema
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Dyshidrosis
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Dandruff on the scalp, beard, or chest
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Lichen planus
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Ichthyosis vulgaris
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Neurodermatitis
It may also be recommended by dermatologists as a chemical peel to reduce fine lines and skin discoloration caused by sun damage.
How to use salicylic acid
Salicylic acid products are meant for external use only. The right way to apply them depends on the formulation and any other ingredients included.
1. Betamethasone dipropionate + salicylic acid
Ointments or lotions that combine betamethasone dipropionate with salicylic acid should be applied in a thin layer over the affected skin twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, then gently massaged in.
This combination is typically prescribed for psoriasis, chronic dermatitis, eczema, dyshidrosis, and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. It should only be used under medical supervision.
2. Salicylic acid + lactic acid
This combination, available in creams or lotions, is used to soften and remove calluses, corns, or warts. Apply it once daily, preferably at bedtime, and rinse off in the morning.
Common FDA-approved options include Compound W and Duofilm. These products are not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with diabetes.
3. Salicylic acid facial cleansing gel
A facial cleansing gel containing salicylic acid helps control excess oil, unclog pores, smooth skin texture, and reduce acne and blackheads.
To use, wet your face, pat it dry with a clean towel, and apply a small amount of gel. Massage gently until it foams, then rinse thoroughly. Use morning and night for best results.
4. Salicylic acid soap
Liquid or bar soaps made with salicylic acid help control oil production and prevent acne breakouts.
The liquid soap can be used on damp skin twice a day by massaging gently in circular motions and rinsing well.
Bar soaps with salicylic acid are often combined with sulfur, an antibacterial ingredient that enhances cleansing. These can be used in the morning and evening.
5. Micellar water with salicylic acid
Micellar water containing salicylic acid can remove makeup, cleanse the skin, and help control oiliness while keeping the skin hydrated.
Apply a few drops to a cotton pad and gently wipe your face until clean. Avoid direct contact with the eyes.
FDA-approved options with similar ingredients include CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Water, which often combine salicylic acid with niacinamide or hyaluronic acid.
6. Shampoo with salicylic acid
Shampoos containing salicylic acid are commonly used to treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp or beard.
They often contain additional ingredients like niacinamide to help regulate oil production and relieve flaking. These shampoos can usually be used daily or as directed by a doctor.
7. Salicylic acid peel
A salicylic acid chemical peel is performed by a dermatologist using higher concentrations, typically between 20% and 30%, to deeply exfoliate the skin.
It’s often recommended for acne, sunspots, and fine lines, helping improve skin texture and brightness.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects include mild redness, irritation, dryness, or skin peeling, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). These reactions usually improve after a few days of consistent use.
In rare cases, people may experience allergic reactions, burning, or blistering. High absorption through the skin can also cause symptoms like ringing in the ears, headache, vomiting, or diarrhea. If these occur, stop use and consult a doctor immediately.
Who should avoid it
Salicylic acid should not be used by children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or anyone allergic to salicylic acid or other salicylates, such as aspirin.
Concentrations above 6% should not be used by people with diabetes or poor circulation.
Avoid applying salicylic acid to eyelids, open wounds, hairy warts, genital warts, or mucous membranes.