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
September 17, 2013
???

Pros:

Clears acne
short time
smells great

Cons:

Dries skin

I used this twice a day for about 3 days until my skin suddenly got really REALLY dry and painful, however it made my acne alot better, i would recommend using this product once a day maybe every other day
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September 13, 2013
Terrible

Pros:

None

Cons:

Burning
Tiny, clustered pimples all over nose and mouth
Itchy and Painful

I have been using Steps 1 - 3 Advantage Clean & Clear for 2 days Followed the instructions clearly and today i woke up to tiny blister-like pimples all around my mouth area and nose. My face is very itchy, red and painful. It also feels extremely tight. I have moderate acne - Don't recommend this product at all. The bin is waiting in open arms for this kit.
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August 2, 2013
HORRIBLE PRODUCT DONT BUY IT

Cons:

it will make you break out
makes face oily

Made me break out even more worst product ever neutrogena works better for my face. When i tried it for the first timeand when i woke up my face was covered in black and white heads horrible dont buy it
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March 30, 2013

Pros:

nothing

Cons:

felt greasy and made everything worse

it could work for you, but it just didnt work out for me
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March 10, 2013

Pros:

smells nice

Cons:

doesn't work, too expensive. I used it when my acne was moderate (as opposed to severe). I didn't feel any benefit when I used it, and it seemed harsh (which is not what I'd expect from an expensive, "natural" product).

don't bother
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March 3, 2013

Pros:

Little product is needed in order to work up a good lather
Leaves skin feeling smooth
Removes make-up easily

Cons:

Does not help much with acne
Can be drying

I have been using this product for years, and I really do like it. I prefer using it during the summer months because it is a bit drying, I make sure to always follow up with a moisturizer! It leaves your skin feeling nice and clean, but does little to help acne. If used in conjunction with other acne products (such as benzoyl peroxide) you would have better results.
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February 28, 2013

Pros:

This stuff works!! I have been using it morning and night and the improvement in my skin is amazing. This stuff kills the bacteria and stops the spread across your face. Use with the cleanser and toner and you will not look back

Cons:

Can dry your skin out a little and stings a little on application

I had severe acne, and this stuff helped clear up my skin. it has stopped the spread of acne on my face. i can face the world again. It does dry your skin out a little but it is totally worth it. Make sure you have a good water based moisturiser
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February 19, 2013

Pros:

It works really well on me...i have dry and oily skin. All i have to do is use it twice and it has almost dissapeared.

Cons:

There is alot of medicines to keep track of and it could be VERY confusing. It makes my face red after i use it and on open acne it can burn.

Clean Start really does work on your face but just try to keep them all in tacked and you have to use them as directed or it wont work as quick.
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January 3, 2013

Pros:

Smells great
Makes your skin feel refreshed

Cons:

Drys out skin
Made me break out worse
Burns

If you have breakouts not very often, I reccomend it. If you're looking for something to clear your face, this isn't it.
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December 31, 2012

Pros:

-works effectively
-diminishes the breakout in 1-2 days
-good for little breakouts

Cons:

-stings a little, but nothing unbearable
-if you try using another product on top, it flakes so do your normal skincare before the spot treatment

Great product for a drugstore product. Definitely recommend this to anyone with light/minimal acne, for cystic acne, you might need something stronger.
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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.