INCI name

Salicylic Acid

Also listed as: A beta hydroxy acid, BHA

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid. It is used in products for blemish-prone skin and in some dandruff and callus treatments because it can loosen dead cells on the surface and inside pores. It is also a mild peeling agent.

In the EU, leave-on body products and some rinse-off products have specific concentration limits and labelling rules for salicylic acid. In the US, over-the-counter acne products that use salicylic acid as a drug active are regulated as drugs, not only as cosmetics, and must follow the acne monograph. A cosmetic in one country can be an over-the-counter drug in another.

Salicylic acid is related to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). People with a known aspirin allergy are often advised to be careful with salicylic acid on the skin. That is a medical question for a pharmacist or clinician, not something a label can settle.

Where it turns up

Blemish treatments, some exfoliating toners, dandruff shampoos and callus products.

Sensitivities

Can sting, especially on broken skin or around the eyes. Sun sensitivity can increase with regular use of acids. Aspirin allergy is a special case.

Vegan or animal-derived

Usually synthetic today. Historically it was obtained from willow, but the cosmetic grade is typically made in a lab.

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