Salicylic Acid: What Is It & What Does It Do?

Salicylic acid (SA) is one of the most common and the most effective acne fighting ingredients available over-the-counter (OTC). SA is a plant-based acid that can be found naturally in botanical sources such as the white willow tree. It’s called a beta hydroxy acid, which means the hydroxy part of the molecule is separated from the acid part by two carbon atoms, whereas an alpha hydroxy acid is separated by one carbon atom. Salicylic acid also contains a ring structure which makes it more oil soluble so it can penetrate into the pores of the skin.

Salicylic acid works by breaking apart the intercellular connection that binds skin cells together, helping to loosen dry scaly skin making it easier to remove it and unclog pores. When SA is used in combination with other treatments it helps keep pores clear.