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
December 30, 2014
Not very effective
This worked when I used it on tiny pimples that were just emerging but it didn't do much for already formed pimples. The gel balled up when other products were used after it.
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December 27, 2014
Green but not Great
Not a fantastic product. Does nothing for inflamed acne at all. Didint really see any improvements after a 2 month use. Discontinued for something else. It does, however, smell nice, and the green tea element is good, however green tea by its self is a much better option :)
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February 5, 2016
Acne begins to form deep below the skin's surface as much as three months before it erupts. You need to give any product at least 4 months to judge the results.
December 20, 2014
Did nothing other than make me look like I was peeling.
I used to use this before I went to sleep to try to reduce spot size. I'm not sure if it worked to be honest. Since trying retin a for two months (and failing) this product now breaks me out further. It smells very chemical-like, almost like it's going to burn a little. It does burn and that's about all it did for me. I also tried thei overnight gel? It's in the same silver packaging and is meant for all over the face in a larger bottle and this not only broke me out but also gave my an allergic reaction.
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December 17, 2014
Good in moderation
I use this about once a month but I have to be careful to apply my fancy moisturizer because this can get drying fast. I used it every day for about a week and I got so flaky and I broke out terribly. I found this to help control my acne with a light touch. Not very good if you are looking for a daily cleanser, but can be very beneficial if you use it during a breakout.
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December 9, 2014
Better than most
I've been using it for 5 months now, and up until this last month I was seeing great results, better than anything else I'd tried. However, lately, I've been noticing more breakouts, but I think it is due to diet, stress and lack of sleep more than my cleanser, so if you are eating healthier and sleeping more than I am now, it would probably work better for you!
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October 9, 2014
effective but rough
I have purchased this scrub for years, it is very effective for clearing acne & deep cleansing the skin. The only downside is it can cause redness of the skin as it is a little rough.
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September 26, 2014
Not moisturizing enough
Irritating and drying, though it aborbs pretty fast and has a pleasant cooling sensation once applied.The 0.5% salicylic acid is definitely ineffective.
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September 15, 2014
If the ingredients listed here are accurate, they are different now
I use this wash and I think it's really good, it doesn't get rid of acne, but I feel it doesn't aggravate it more and overall appearance and feeling of skin seems smoother, calmer and healthier and for me it doesn't dry my skin out! Its a nice creamy texture with light exfoliation, I feel it would suit mild to moderate acne. INGREDIENTS TO THIS PRODUCT HAS CHANGED FOR THE BETTER :)
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August 30, 2014
Do not purchase
This product worked well for me for about a month. Although it did nothing fantastic, it kept my acne under control. However - now my skin has gone to hell. This cleanser is extremely harsh and has me (who has the oiliest skin in the world) flaking and red. I am broken out in bumps everywhere on my skin and even though I have cut back to washing just once a day, this cleanser has me peeling all over and does nothing to combat my acne. Don't be fooled. This product might work to start with, but it will irritate and dry out your skin beyond belief. I am going to buy a gentle cleanser without such harsh ingredients and I implore everyone else to do so as well.
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August 28, 2014
Whiteheads all over
I was really hopeful for this product because of the reviews but it broke me out really bad. I had whiteheads all over chin. I had never had acne that bad before. I discontinued use quickly. I wouldn't recommend it for anyone with sensitive skin.
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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.