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
March 26, 2008

Pros:

its works really really well

Cons:

it fricken stings! almost made me cry first time i used it.

good but there r better
March 12, 2008

Pros:

Good

Cons:

Bad

Its arite
October 8, 2010

Cons:

so far all it has done is make me break out.I have WAY more pimples than I did before I started.

I purchased and have been using the entire kit.what a waste of $.
June 21, 2010

Pros:

NONE

Cons:

Does NOT work for individuals with sensitive skin!

Don't buy this product if you have sensitive skin! I baught this product in Feburary 2010, and i'm still dealing with the consequences. Upon using it before bed i woke up with a huge black spor of the spot where i applied a little touch of it, and upon washing my face it peeled away, i was left with a hole in my face and the compnay only reimbursed me the $12.99 i payed for the product. Now my skin has healed but it has triggerd minor acne compared to the rare one or two break outs i would have before...and little irritation bumps. I currently switched over to neutrogena and its been working wonders for me, i just need to find something for the dark marks it left!
April 29, 2010

Pros:

None

Cons:

This is NOT, I repeat NOT for sensitive skin!! I have sensitive combination skin. The first couple of days I used it, I liked it, but wondered why the shine control didn't really work. However, after about a week, I had a reeeeeeeaaaally bad allergic reaction to it. My normally pale skin swelled up and turned red. My face got shiny within minutes of using this product!!! Don't use this if you have sensitive skin!!!!

DON'T BUY IF YOUR SKIN IS SENSITIVE!!!!!!
December 5, 2009

Pros:

works most of the time
easy to use

Cons:

a bit greasy and for a while it looks like the it made my acne worse

fairly good product but if it is not suited for you skin type, then don't use it
August 20, 2009

Pros:

supposed to get rid of bacne and shoulder acne basically any body acne

i just started using it and i bought it because of all the good reviews and i really hope it works!
May 8, 2009

Pros:

felt like it cleaned my skin on my nose/chin

Cons:

dried the crap out of my nose and made it peel really bad =[

im scared to use this stuff anymore!!
April 23, 2009

Pros:

Works reasonably

Cons:

Did not get visible results within first 3 days, blached hair and eyebrows!

had ot get my hair cut and dyed.
November 29, 2008

Pros:

It's easy to use

Cons:

This product is HORRIBLE! It does nothing, and I use it three times a day.

Do NOT buy this product. It may work for some people, but NOT me. I have very sensitive skin and it's very painful. It bothers my skin and just leaves embaressing red bumps.

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.