What is Salicylic Acid?
Oil-soluble acid derived from willow bark. Penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum and dead skin cells. The gold standard for acne treatment and blackhead prevention.
✅Key Benefits
- ✓Unclogs pores and prevents blackheads
- ✓Reduces acne and breakouts
- ✓Oil-soluble (penetrates oily pores)
- ✓Anti-inflammatory properties
- ✓Reduces pore appearance
- ✓Gentle exfoliation
- ✓Controls oil production
🎯Best For
AcneOily skinBlackheadsWhiteheadsLarge poresSeborrheic dermatitis
📋How to Use
Use 1-2x daily (start 1x). Apply to clean skin, leave on. Can use AM or PM. Start with 0.5-1%, increase to 2%. Great for spot treatment. Use consistently for 6-8 weeks for acne results.
⚗️RECOMMENDED CONCENTRATION: 0.5% (gentle), 1-2% (standard), 3-6% (spot treatment/professional)
⚠️Avoid Mixing With
- ✕Retinoids (same time)
- ✕Multiple exfoliants
- ✕Benzoyl Peroxide (can combine with caution)
💚Pairs Well With
- ✓Niacinamide
- ✓Hyaluronic Acid
- ✓Azelaic Acid
- ✓Benzoyl Peroxide (AM/PM split)
🚫Avoid If
- ⚠Aspirin allergy
- ⚠Extremely dry skin
- ⚠Rosacea
- ⚠Pregnant (high concentrations)
🔬Scientific Evidence
FDA-approved for acne. Proven comedolytic (unclogs pores) and anti-inflammatory. Studies show 50-70% reduction in acne lesions in 12 weeks. Lipophilic nature allows sebum penetration.
⚡Important Warnings
- !Can dry out skin - use moisturizer
- !May purge initially (2-4 weeks)
- !Increases sun sensitivity
- !Aspirin-allergic individuals should avoid
- !Don't over-exfoliate
💡Fun Facts
- ★Derived from willow bark (ancient pain reliever)
- ★Related to aspirin (both salicylates)
- ★Only BHA commonly used in skincare
- ★Paula's Choice 2% BHA is cult favorite