Salicylic Acid (BHA)
- Effective dose
- 0.5–2 %
- Evidence
- 4/5· Strong
Last updated June 1, 2026
What it is
Salicylic acid is a lipophilic beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates oily pores and dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together. By exfoliating inside the follicle it clears and prevents comedones, and it also has mild anti-inflammatory action. This oil-soluble profile makes it especially suited to acne-prone and oily skin.
Benefits
Salicylic acid is comedolytic and reduces both comedones and inflammatory acne lesions, performing comparably to benzoyl peroxide for comedonal acne over about 12 weeks. Over-the-counter products are effective in the 0.5-2% range, the concentrations supported by controlled acne trials.
When to take it
Can be used as a leave-on treatment or cleanser, once daily to start, building up as tolerated. Pairing with a moisturizer and daytime SPF helps offset dryness and sensitivity.
Side effects
Common effects include dryness, peeling, redness, and mild stinging. Overuse can over-exfoliate and irritate; large-area application of high concentrations should be avoided.
Sources
Products containing Salicylic Acid (BHA)
No products in our database contain this ingredient yet.