Salicylic acid helps exfoliate the skin by loosening the “glue” that holds skin cells together to promote their natural shedding. Salicylic acid skincare also dissolves oil within the pores, which improves the appearance of blackheads. This ingredient has been found to reduce oil production as well—and these three modes of action work together to decrease the formation of acne.

Salicylic acid’s gentle exfoliating action makes it a worthwhile addition to any skincare regimen, acne or not—but it’s an essential ingredient for blemish-prone skin. Regular salicylic acid treatment helps keep the pores clear of oil, dirt and debris, in turn minimizing breakouts.

Salicylic acid skincare products include cleansers, treatment pads and body spray, which makes it easy to incorporate this ingredient into your anti-acne regimen. Ideal for all types of breakouts on the face and body, including blackheads and whiteheads, daily salicylic acid treatment helps ensure pores remain clear of the oil, dirt and debris.

If you experience breakouts on your back or chest, salicylic acid skincare is the ideal solution. Our Body Clearing Acne Spray contains 2% salicylic acid, and the easy-to-use spray gets hard-to-reach spots so you can have clear skin from head to toe.

Salicylic acid skincare is an excellent acne treatment on its own, but its effects can be enhanced when used with other anti-acne ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and sulfur. When salicylic acid’s exfoliating and pore-clearing benefits are combined with the bacteria-reducing effects of other ingredients, you’re able to fight all the factors that contribute to breakouts.

Every skincare regimen (with or without salicylic acid treatment) should include a daily sunscreen that is applied every morning, rain or shine, and reapplied at least every two hours during extended periods of sun exposure. But if you’re using salicylic acid skincare, it’s a good idea to be extra diligent because this ingredient has an exfoliating effect that removes the uppermost layer of skin, which can leave skin more vulnerable to sunburn.