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
January 5, 2008

Pros:

It does seem to clear up your skin (Ie: reduce redness/ keep acne down), certianly dried out my skin as other reviews hav said.

Cons:

It often does burn when you apply it, its not that bad though, I had Acne on my forehead when i started now it is on my forhead and the right side of your face.

Its ok it does work well to reduce redness but there are probably better products out there, as i stated it *MAY* have spread my acne but I cannot back that statement up with fact.
January 4, 2008

Pros:

It did work at first.

Cons:

It burns, and the spot was really red afterwards.

Dont use it, I recommend prescription SOLYDYN my dermatologist gave it to me and it works.
January 4, 2008

Pros:

err...
it smells good
and thats all

Cons:

IT STINGS LIKE HELL!
it doesnt really work for me.
i rather you use vlean & clear Persa Gel- 5

DOESNT WORK & STINGS REALLY BAD
December 31, 2007

Pros:

Works to an extent on pimples. Especially on soon to come pimples

Cons:

Works at first but doesn't get rid of the problem.

People who don't read instructions, will not like the outcome. Ofcourse! this Isn't meant for acne all over. And is definitely not meant for your whole face. Use it for spots! and small pimples. I found it effective for those areas. but If your expecting a miracle for your acne all over your face, see a dermatologist!
December 21, 2007

Pros:

None

Cons:

It didn't work at all. My pimple became worse and caused more around the pimple I put it on. It did nothing for the redness, swelling or unclogging the pores.

Don't bother wasting your money. It was advertised to work and it doesn't. I was very disappointed.
December 19, 2007

Pros:

Moisturizes, makes my skin feel soft, doesn't make my skin worse/breakout, nice smell, don't need to use a lot

Cons:

Doesn't make my skin better either

I've been using this since high school (in my 2nd year of college now). I have experimented with a few other moisturizers, but they either really dry my skin out or make my face extremely greasy. This isn't the best moisturizer, but it works for now. I'm going to be trying Aveeno next, but for now I just keep coming back to this. Maybe it's just that I've been using it for so long, but it never burned my face...
December 16, 2007

Pros:

Smells Godd, Clear, Comes out easy, Drys my face out just enough to make it wear its not so oily, Smooth

Cons:

After you put it on its kinda-of grainy, makes my eyes water

I love it. It does work. I dont have sensitive skin so it dosent bother me, but I do have watery eyes and this does irrate them.
December 11, 2007

Pros:

It was cheap and worked well at first.

Cons:

It works okay at first, but after continuous use...it doesn't do anything for your face. It just dries it up really badly.

I wouldn't buy it again...I need something that will always work.
December 10, 2007

Pros:

the packaging

Cons:

IT DOES NOT WORK!

do not use it. it sucks. try the neutrogena invigorating scrub. works way better then this.
December 2, 2007

Pros:

It smells good.

Cons:

It doesn't work.

You're better off putting a dab of Apple Cider Vinegar on the pimple to make it heal faster.

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.