Salicylic Acid
Topical Keratolytic
Reviews
3.6
6049 Reviews
Salicylic Acid
Topical Keratolytic
Efficacy
55%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Salicylic Acid
Topical Keratolytic
Side Effects
Low
Salicylic Acid
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.
Salicylic Acid
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%

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August 21, 2007
Product used: Clean & Clear (Advantage Acne Spot Treatment)

Pros:

You can really feel it working, pimples get smaller within hours. It smells good, causes no dryness whatsoever

Cons:

burns, causes immediate redness of pimple area(but that goes away within a couple minutes), makes my skin feel more oily and shiny

The best over-the-counter on-the-spot treatment i have ever used. The burning and redness go away within a couple minutes, so i have no problem with that. But after a couple hours of applying, my skin starts to feel oily. It makes me feel like the product isn't working even though it obviously is, and i'm constantly apply small dots of it throughout the day or blotting my face with kleenex to get rid of the oily feeling. i still love it, though.
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August 16, 2007
Product used: L'Oreal (Pure Zone Pore Tightening Astringent)

Pros:

It helped me clear my pimples/complexion and all but it like took FOREVER before it started working. i've used the 3 steps since May last year and it could be better but hey, It sure beats the way my face looked before i started using it.

Cons:

The cleanser dries the skin, it is kinda harsh as it makes my skin feel all peppery and itchy. Also, it's kinda pricey.

I have been using it for about a year now and it has imporved my acne condition but it still hasn't taken care of it completly. It did however, clear my sisters acne condition TOTALLY and COMPLETELY. So, i'd keep using it but suggest L'Oreal research into improving it's efficacy.
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August 9, 2007
Product used: Clean & Clear (Advantage Acne Cleanser)

Pros:

i like how it gets all lathery when you rub it in.i also like the smell.

Cons:

NONE!

this is an amazing product.i dont use it on my face;i use it on my shoulders and back and after just a few days my skin was SO much smoother and less red and irritated.
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August 5, 2007
Product used: Neutrogena (Oil-Free Acne Wash 60 Second Mask Scrub)

Pros:

affordable, cooling, works

Cons:

none so far

I bought the new stress acne scrub about a week ago. It's a 2% salycilic acid scrub with a new delivery method. It feels good. I was only going to use it a couple of times a week but it is so gentle I've been using it 2x a day following with my tea tree oil and my skin is really responding to it quickly. It's not nearly as drying as the regular acne wash. so far so good.
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July 29, 2007
Product used: Biore (Pore Unclogging Scrub)

Pros:

i think it smells good
tingly cool effect
removes pimples and scars for me

Cons:

actually nothing really.

when i started having bangs my forehead started to break out...but not alot thoe. i mean i would pick it and it would leave scars so i went to target and bought this product and after a few days my scars we're going away. and i have really sensitive skin, so Im pretty satisfied with it!
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July 15, 2007
Product used: Clean & Clear (Advantage Acne Spot Treatment)

Pros:

Works really good, the best i tried yet

Cons:

Burns

Try it, its great!
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July 11, 2007
Product used: Clean & Clear (Advantage Acne Spot Treatment)

Pros:

after using for a while it doesnt leave my skin as red and works better clearing up then benzoly peroxide

Cons:

does burn a lot on inflammed pimples

i will keep buying as long as it keeps working
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July 10, 2007
Product used: Clearasil (Ultra Acne Clearing Scrub)

Pros:

makes my skin feel smooth

Cons:

don't work in 3 days

this product is good , it just takes patience
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June 29, 2007
Product used: Biore (Blemish Treating Astringent)

Pros:

Excellent Product and very affordable..there is no need to purchase expensivie products this biore astringent does the work..

Cons:

do not over use the product..and you will see results

Biore products will work..over all much better than even the most expensive producets on the market...
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June 29, 2007
Product used: Clean & Clear (Advantage Acne Spot Treatment)

Pros:

It reduces the size of pimples.

Cons:

It leaves skin dries. It feels like your zit is being burned off with FIRE.

It works on small pimples but it burns tremendoulsy. Use oxy of acne free spot treatment.
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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.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

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.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website