Salicylic Acid
INCI: Salicylic Acid · CAS: 69-72-7
Oil-soluble BHA that penetrates pores to clear excess sebum and dead skin. Best for blackheads, blemishes, and oily skin.
ComedogenicDescribes any ingredient, cosmetic, or skincare product that tends to clog pores. Scored 0 (non-comedogenic) to 5 (highly likely to clog pores).
-
IrritancyRefers to the state or quality of being irritating, provoking annoyance, or causing physical discomfort. Scored 0 (well tolerated) to 5 (likely to irritate sensitive skin).
2 / 5
EWGThe Environmental Working Group operates the EWG Skin Deep® Cosmetics Database, which evaluates the safety of tens of thousands of personal care products. Scored 0–10 based on hazard level: 0–2 low hazard, 3–6 moderate, 7–10 high.
4 / 10
Functions
active, exfoliant
Functions in a formula
- active
- exfoliant
- bha
Possible concerns
Suitable for skin types
- Oily
- Combination
- Acne-prone
Also listed as
Beta Hydroxy Acid · BHA
Our matcher recognises all of these names automatically.
This page is continuously reviewed. Last updated 7/1/2026.
Informational only - not medical advice. See methodology.