I've been using SA consistently, and with great results for nearly 4 months. My skin did not get worse before it got better, it just started clearing right away. (You can check my log for specifics). Either way you should give it more than a week before you decide if it's working or not... at least 4 weeks.

lovely, please tell us what SA strength (%) you use.

It's common for SA to cause more breakouts than usual.It may take 6-8 weeks to start noticing results. Anyone who does not see an improvement in their acne after this time may wish to contact a doctor or dermatologist for advice on alternative treatment options.

I once used salicylic acid and it helps my skin shed dead cells from the top layer and by decreasing redness and swelling. This decreases the number of pimples that form and speeds healing.

I stay clear from anything with salicylic acid. After a couple years in my early twenties using it, it was too harsh, caused more cysts and just exclude it from my routine. I think I am definitely allergic. It causes a terrible reaction.