Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) with lipophilic properties: penetrates sebaceous glands, dissolves plugs, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects.
Topical application
AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints.
RCTs and meta-analyses confirm efficacy for comedonal and inflammatory acne. FDA-approved as an OTC acne drug at 0.5–2% concentrations. Also used for ichthyosis, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis.
0.5–2% in OTC products
Salicylic Acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), a derivative of salicyl alcohol. Unlike AHAs (glycolic, lactic), salicylic acid is oil-soluble and penetrates sebaceous glands, making it the key acne agent. Where applied. Acne lotions and toners (0.5-2%), peels (10-30% in-office), anti-dandruff shampoos (1.5-3%), keratolytic preparations for calluses and warts (10-40%). In Spain widely used in La Roche-Posay Effaclar, Vichy Normaderm, Sesderma Salses. Evidence base. AAD 2024 and Spanish AEDV 2023 recommend salicylic acid 0.5-2% as first-line for mild non-inflammatory acne. Comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide and adapalene for non-inflammatory lesions (comedones), but less effective against inflammatory papules and pustules – in those cases add benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid. Safety. CIR/SCCS confirm safety at concentrations up to 2% in cosmetics. Irritation at start in 10-20% of patients in the first weeks, resolving in 2-4 weeks. Non-comedogenic. Systemic absorption with topical application to limited areas is minimal. Photosensitization described rarely. Pregnancy and lactation – with restrictions. Use up to 2% on limited areas (face, upper back) is acceptable. EU and FDA advise avoiding high concentrations (>2%), peels, and large-area application – risk of systemic absorption and theoretical fetal effects (by analogy with aspirin). Alternative – azelaic acid 15-20% (safe in pregnancy). Alternatives. Benzoyl peroxide (more effective for inflammatory acne), adapalene (first-line retinoid), azelaic acid, glycolic acid 5-10%.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
CautionWorks well with
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Salicylic Acid should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Salicylic Acid suits: oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Salicylic Acid has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) with lipophilic properties: penetrates sebaceous glands, dissolves plugs, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects.
The INCI name is Salicylic Acid. It may also appear as: BHA, 2-Hydroxybenzoic Acid, Салициловая кислота.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution
0.5–2% in OTC products