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
May 8, 2008

Pros:

it's good for your skin and the smell is very good

Cons:

it is very rough

it works and try it yourself
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March 29, 2008

Pros:

By far the most effective topical treatment I have used (including benzoyl peroxide and other salicylic acid treatments). With my skin it doesn't react adversely, the bottle lasts a surprisingly long time, it has a pleasant consistency and scent.

Cons:

Perhaps it has caused a slight drying of the skin, but no other negative aspects for me.

I'll repeat: this is definitely the most effective treatment I have used over the past 7-ish years. More effective than other salicylic acid treatments. More effective than benzoyl peroxide. More effective than Proactiv. For my particular skin, this seems to work really well. I should note that I've also been making some dietary changes (I've practically eliminated direct eggs and dairy from my diet) and also been drinking about 2 liters of water a day. I think this treatment plus those changes are probably the reason my skin has improved so much, and perhaps neither would have been as effective alone. Anyway, I'd definitely recommend trying this and applying a thin coat twice a day after gentle cleansing and moisturizing. It's fairly inexpensive and the small bottle has really lasted several months.
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January 29, 2008

Pros:

Helps to eliminate acne that is already on your face.

Cons:

Can dry out your skin if you use too much, and doesn't prevent pimples from appearing.

I have been using it for a few months and I find it is good at drying out my pimples, but it doesn't stop me from having breakouts. If you only have mild acne it should be good for you. The trick is to use just the right amount (in the right places)-if you don't use enough it doesn't work, if you use too much it dries out your skin terribly.
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August 24, 2007

Pros:

i used it for about 2 weeks and sough quite a difference, i stopped using it for about 2 and a half weeks after those 2 weeks and i began to break out crazy, so it basically proved that this stuff works by just comparing it when u used it and stoped.

Cons:

it dryed up my skin quite a bit but that doesn't really bother me really..

good stuff, if i kept using it a bit longer then i did i would probably have less acne.
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June 29, 2007

Pros:

none

Cons:

didnt prevent zits from happening or get rid of them

i didnt prevent any zits from happening and didnt help at all on zits i had, i got more zits when using it
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April 14, 2007

Pros:

Helps a bit

Cons:

Doesent work well for people with Sensitive Skin (like me)

I have to tell you this. OMG The other day I was at Wal-Mart and this Equate Stuff was there "Oil~Free Dual Action Moistuizer Sensitive Skin Medicated to Help treat and prevent pimples", so I had to buy. I tryed it and when I put it on my face like 10-15 min later my face was soooooo clear. Can't believe it. I cant live without it. But I recomend this to people who have Sensitive Skin and its only $3.49 or something. This is AMAZING! P.S the other Info about at the bottom is St. Ives. Please try this Equate Stuff.... Cause it really works.
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May 7, 2017
Drys skin out
Works well for getting rid of acne overnight but dries skin out a lot.
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March 14, 2017
Awesome!!!
I recently just started using these, and they really do work!!! I have ALOT of pimples and acne on my nose, forehead, and chin. Take this from a 12 yr old. I use them once a day, and it doesn't dry up my skin or anything! This is GREAT!!!!!!!! My nose is a lot clearer now, and I've never been happier in my life about acne!!! I haven't used any other products, and it just does it on its own!!! But all of you have different skin types, so it may not work. Just try it! You won't be disapointed!♡♡♡
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May 17, 2016
Work in Progress
It's said to be true that when you use a new product for your skin, it can take up to 6 weeks for you to see if it really is starting to work. My 23 year old sister has a friend that lives in California with her and works in the "beauty business." My sister said she told her friend about my acne problems, so she suggested the "Start Clear" starter kit, it's slowly starting to work, I wash my face twice a day with the normal wash. Mornings I do normal wash and the the moisturizer/toner and I'm set for the entire day of school. Nights I just do the normal wash and apply the moisturizer/toner. It's really working well, I guarantee if you use if for a little while, you will start to see positive results.
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January 14, 2016
Life saver!!!
Life saver!!!! I love this product so MUCH!! I'm 27 years old and have never had acne or bad break outs until recently! I was so depressed because, I tried everything and nothing worked. My sister suggested St. Ives and it did wonders for my skin. I used it once in the morning and right before I went to bed for two weeks. Slowly but surely my face started clearing up and felt better than it did before. I was just like you searching for s good product for my face and was very skeptical, but trust me this works you just have to be patient. If you start to notice your face getting dry during the day use this product ever other! I hope it works out for you like it did for me! Thank you St Ives!!! Works well for light ance
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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.