Salicylic acid in skincare
A beta-hydroxy acid, often abbreviated to BHA.
What is salicylic acid?
A beta-hydroxy acid, often abbreviated to BHA. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Salicylic Acid. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does salicylic acid do for skin and the product?
Used in exfoliating products focused on clogged pores and uneven skin surface.
Active ingredients are used for a specific skincare purpose. Amount, stability and combination with other ingredients determine what a product can do. An ingredient name alone does not substantiate a particular result.
May irritate and dry skin. Follow the product's directions and avoid combining many exfoliating products at once.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about salicylic acid
What does salicylic acid do in skincare?
Used in exfoliating products focused on clogged pores and uneven skin surface.
What should I know about salicylic acid?
May irritate and dry skin. Follow the product's directions and avoid combining many exfoliating products at once.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations