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 16, 2009

Pros:

Lightens red spots, heals mild acne.

Cons:

Not for moderate Acne

This is by far the best cleanser I have ever used (Orange Essence Facial Wash) I love that I apply it dry beacuse it has oils in it, and it works wonders for my oily skin because since oils dissolve oils, it leaves my skin perfectly balanced, and even without a moisturizer, never oil throughout the day. The only times I've noticd my face got oily was if I used too much or left it on too long. But it hasn't ever clogged my pores, the smell is amazing and you can't beat it being all natural! I think this product is perfect for people with no acne because its mainly a daily cleanser, and not a fighter of moderate acne. The ingredients are too mild. But until I find another product that fights acne and doesn't dry my face, this is my main product. WILL DEFINITELY BE BUYING AGAIN IN THE FUTURE!!! ps. its hard to find in places like wal mart and cvs, at least where I live, I found it in walgreens.
December 5, 2009

Pros:

made face less red.

Cons:

I used this product for about 10 days and it caused me to breakout with cystic acne all along my jawline. I ended up having to go to a dermatologist and now i'm using retin-a, duac, and solodyn which seems to be working.

Nothing against Burts Bees, i love their chapstick and handsalve. I think i must have been allergic to something in their formula b/c of the way my skin reacted to it.
November 14, 2009

Pros:

it reduced pimples within ten minutes...sort of.

Cons:

it made my face burn and itch. and left a sort of burn mark on my face for a minute because of this burning.

it's an alright product if you have a few sort of noticeable/annoying pimples to get rid of. it works to the extent that if you want the pimples to come to a white head so you can pop them and still have to suffer through the red part. so unless you have some concealer or foundation and this stuff on handy, then you're gonna be lacking in the whole covering up the zit problem
November 4, 2009

Pros:

It gets rid of spots and reduces redness

Cons:

it dries my skin out and makes dry patches all over my face,

i don't recommend it.
November 3, 2009

Pros:

- Pimple were smaller... slightly.

Cons:

- Smells like strong alcohol
- Stings
- Makes it more red and shiny

Does not get rid of acne
November 1, 2009

Pros:

It smells good and works for me!

Cons:

It takes about a week to see a difference

I like it and I would use it more.
September 24, 2009

Pros:

It cleans off all the oil so your skin feels fresh & clean

Cons:

I think it's made me break out with cystic acne.. suddenly I started breaking out on my cheeks which has never happened to me before and never this severely. I used to only get a couple of minor white heads, but now I have a rash of acne!!!

It doesn't work for me. I'm not so sure why this product has such high ratings! Its causing me to break out even worse than ever before! I was just looking for a cleanser that would help me get rid of the smaller random little white heads on my T zone and chin area, and instead I'm breaking out all over my cheeks with these MASSIVE cystic acne bumps!!! I've never ever in my life had this before! I'm going to be scarred on my cheeks now and its basically this product's fault.
September 22, 2009

Pros:

if i have a big zit, it makes it smaller, help clear acne
i use clean and clear daily pore cleanser b4 it and it works better if i do tht

Cons:

stings the first time u use it
makes ur skin a little dry
makes skin a slttle shinney

but this pruduct!!!
September 21, 2009

Pros:

makes skin really soft after use, it does make your face feel cold and tingly after, but its not a bad thing. does make skin a little red after.

Cons:

none yet, i just bought it today, but i will write another one in a few weeks.

its a great product so far..
September 18, 2009

Pros:

I only use it when i feel a zit coming and it works!!7/8 hours for me.

Cons:

It stings a bit if you have a open wound.

Out of all of the acne treatments ive used clean and clear advance acne kit is the best!!!And I'm only 13!

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.