Topical Keratolytic
Reviews
3.6
6049 Reviews
Topical Keratolytic
Efficacy
55%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Topical Keratolytic
Side Effects
Low
Topical Keratolytic
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Easy to find and with low side effects, but don’t be surprised if you are left wishing for better results after using it for a while. Any acid on its own is unlikely to dramatically clear acne.
Topical Keratolytic
How to Get It
This is an over-the-counter treatment. Here are some places you can find it online.
Read All About Salicylic Acid
Compare To Other Treatments
5
32.8%
4
28.4%
3
17.3%
2
10.9%
1
10.6%

Used Salicylic Acid? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
April 17, 2007

Pros:

I love this product! In the past, I was unable to find moisturizers that wouldn't cause me to break out, no matter what the labels said. But this moisturizer works great, has a more than tolerable fragrance, and helps my acne!

Cons:

Almost none! Unlike some people, I haven't had issues with my skin looking oily when using this product. The only thing some people might not like is that it doesn't show immediate results. However, using it regularly I've noticed a HUGE difference.

Use it. It works great, and it's CHEAP. I've only been using it about 2 1/2 weeks and I can see a big difference. However, I've been using this product in addition to Oxy daily wash (also works like a charm) so, my results may be partly thanks to that. But the Oxy facewash dries out my skin, so it's perfect to have this moisturizer to use that I can be sure won't clog my pores and cause breakouts... just the opposite!
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April 16, 2007

Pros:

Short list of ingredients: worth trying because at least it will not break you out. I have used it for several years as part of a successful regimen incluing BP and glycolic acid.

Cons:

Might irritate your skin and dry it out at first.

Be gentle and give it time and it will prove its worth. Use moisturizer (a little safflower with a drop or two of tea tree works for me). And a humidifier at night if you are really dry helps.
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February 26, 2007

Pros:

Works on whiteheads & tiny pimples. Smells alright.

Cons:

Doesnt work on huge, angry acne. Tend to dry up the skin around the zits, causing irritations & flakiness.

Quite expensive for a small tube. It takes at least 4-5 days to reduce redness & swelling, not 24 hrs as stated in the packaging.
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February 26, 2007

Pros:

Really clears up uninfected white heads and blackheads.

Cons:

Not so good for huge pus filled blemishes.

I use the newer lotion variety, I swear buy it, and the price isn't bad when it has worked better than anyone prescription product for me. I highly recommend pairing it with an antibiotic, I use minocylcline, which will help clear up large infected acne. I've had acne for over 12 years nad this is the best product I have tried. Just remember nothing will clear up your acne in 8 hours, or 8 days for that matter.
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February 25, 2007

Pros:

clears skin, no soreness and redness, Skin looks and felts smoother, good results.

Cons:

it doesn't clear skin in 3 days, but i wasn't expecting it to work in 3 days. But i think its faster acting than most other products.

ideal for everyone, better than other products, no soreness, give it a try.
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February 8, 2007
This product is excellent in the since that it does dry pimples up fast, the negative effect is if you apply to much around the pimple instead of just on the pimple, it will dry your skin. It does leave your skin red for awhile I use it at night for it does not work well under make-up. If you use this product with a moisturizer, and an exfoliator once a week, I think you will be happy with this product.
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February 2, 2007

Pros:

none that i can think of

Cons:

it doesnt really work that well, doesn't stop breakouts and pimples and what not

bottom line this product was just a waste of money and of time, it didnt do anything to help my breakouts and pimples however now that i figured out a way to eliminate MY pimples (so might not work for you) here is what I do and you can try it to! every morning and night: - wash my face with spectro jel - use clearasel ultra pads - and sometimes if i feel gross, dirty and oily, i use plain baby whips just so that the dirt doesnt get into my pores to create pimples - results? no pimples and nothing!
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February 2, 2007

Pros:

Made skin appear healthier.

Cons:

Flared acne, and never really got rid of it.

I used this product for over two months; morning and night, and I greatly regret doing so. My face broke out in the first week, and it never improved, though I was told by a consultant to persevere through. Since then, I've been left with numerous scars, which hasn't happened to me with other products. Perhaps it was just that my face didn't take to the system, but if it doesn't work for you by the end of the first month, do yourself a favor and stop.
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January 25, 2007

Pros:

The only good thing was the fact that the acne didn't get worse

Cons:

Didn't do anything at all to the acne. it was still there and made my skin sensitive

DON'T USE IT'S MONEY WASSSSTTEEEED!!!
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January 9, 2007

Pros:

Easy to apply, it works, and it's cheap!

Cons:

It's a tad bit expensive for me and the smell's not too pleasant, but tolerable. =o)

It says to leave on for 10-15 minute, but I left it on longer. I think it works better if you leave it on longer. =o)
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.