Doctors Recommend The Best Salicylic Acid Products For Acne
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Salicylic acid is the gold standard for treating blackheads, whiteheads and excess oil and is naturally found in willow bark, vegetables and fruits. A common skin care ingredient, youve likely come across it while shopping for acne face washes, blackhead treatments and acne spot treatments, explained board-certified dermatologist Kathleen Viscusi, MD. But what is it, and why is it so popular? A beta hydroxy acid that can penetrate the skin to help remove excess oil and unclog the pores, salicylic acid possesses keratolytic properties that enable it to exfoliate dead skin cells and improve texture and tone, noted board-certified dermatologist , MD. If youre dealing with congested pores and acne right now, you might be looking for skin care products with salicylic acid in them. To help you find the right options for you, we consulted medical doctors on the benefits and limitations of salicylic acid in skincare.
Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% Bha Lotion
Best BHA product for dry skin
While similar to the BHA Liquid mentioned above, this BHA Lotion from Paulas Choice provides extra hydrating benefits. It has a 2% concentration of salicylic acid, as well as emollients that hydrate and soften the skin. The calming hydrating lotion makes it the best BHA product for those with dry skin. Although it is considered a lotion, it has a very lightweight texture that absorbs easily into the skin and dries quickly.
How to Use: Cleanse and dry the skin. Dispense the product into your hands, and then massage all over your face. Follow with a moisturizer.
Dermafique Acne Avert Cleansing Mousse
Skin Type
Deeply cleanses the skin without stripping it off the natural oils. Removes dirt and impurities, therefore preventing the accumulation of sebum inside the pores. Well, we, of course, cant promise something as smooth as the BTS, but you will notice a stark difference after a few days of use.
If you are looking to fix your dark spots and pimples, then the buck stops here!
The face wash has niacinamide and salicylic acid, which is incredible for dealing with anything ranging from acne and blemishes to scarring and irritable skin. You can also use this product for the removal of hyperpigmentation from old pimples, giving you better, even-toned skin.
Enhanced with the Bio-Intel System, it impedes not only acne-causing bacteria but also helps clean pores and remove extra oil from your face. You are also protected from the formation of any new acne on your skin.
The Demafique Acne Avert Cleansing Mousse is also very gentle on the skin, thanks to it being soap and silicone-free. This not only helps you to have a more clean, clearer skin but also to keep a check on the health of your skin.
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Discovering The Best Solution For Open Pores And Blackheads
A good face wash will help your get rid of open pores and reduce blackheads. Do you feel like because of your age, face washes may not be healthy for you? Dont worry, there is always one to suit your age and skin type.
There are a few characteristics you should watch out for when choosing a face wash. Check them out below:
With these tips, youll be able to narrow down your options to get the best one for your skin. Without further ado, heres our list of face washes to help you with open pores and blackheads.
Biore Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser

Everything about this salicylic acid face wash is unique. Its an ice cleanser, meaning the formula stops your breakouts cold. And yes, it employs salicylic acid to get rid of 99 percent of oil and dirt. I would go as far as to declare that its also the best face wash for pimples and dark spots.
It targets impurities that give rise to blemishes. Meaning your potential breakouts dont even get to see the light of day. This salicylic acid foaming face wash also clears up blackheads. And while doing so, the ice cleanser cools and invigorates the skin too.
Its an oil-free, dermatologist-recommended skincare product you can incorporate into your every day routine.
PROS
- Cooling menthol/eucalyptus effect not good for sensitive skin.
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How To Use Salicylic Acid Serums
- Over-the-counter salicylic acid products are not pregnancy-safe. Even though there are certain parties claiming that its safe to use in low concentrations, you should still steer clear of salicylic acid.
- As serums are leave-on products, most of them are suitable for both AM and PM use. However, nighttime is the best time to let the skin work with active ingredients. Because theres no makeup, sweat, sun exposure, or pollution to interfere.
- Its easier for oily skin types to tolerate active ingredients. But its more advisable to start off by using your salicylic acid serum a few times a week until youre sure your skin is OK with it.
- A tiny bit of tingling or burning is expected when using chemical exfoliants. No need to freak out. But maybe lower the frequency until your skin builds up enough tolerance.
- For the ultimate anti-aging and anti-acne benefits, pair your salicylic acid serum with a retinol serum and alternate between the two. Itll give you your best skin ever and will go as far as smoothing out smile lines!
- Salicylic acid makes your skin prone to sunburn. This is not a hoax there are hundreds of studies confirming it. So always remember to use sunscreen to keep that new skin healthy and spotless.
- To avoid irritation, use your salicylic acid serum on completely dry skin.
How Does Salicylic Acid Work
Salicylic acid works by fighting inflammation, killing bacteria and unclogging your pores. A surprisingly great all-rounder for acne, considering it is just one compound. Compared to many other acne treatments its not particularly harsh and can be used on most skin types. We find that it tends to work particularly well on blackheads. Salicylic acid is also reportedly effective for dry skin acne and may help reduce irritation, redness, and swelling.
Due to its anti-inflammatory and calming effects, this ingredient is used in many acne products. It is marketed under different names, such as Aliclen, DHS Sal, Betasal, Salex, Acnomel Acne Mask, AcneX, and Zapzyt. Salicylic acid face wash formulas are used in the treatment of acne, psoriasis, whiteheads, blackheads, common warts, and seborrheic dermatitis. Dosage depends on the condition that is being treated as well as on the severity of symptoms.
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Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Oil
Now heres a brand that values natural ways for transforming and nourishing the skin. Aveenos Oil-Free Facial Cleanser is a gentle foaming formula that treats and prevents breakouts without causing any unnecessary dryness. The formula, just by the way, has a moisture-rich content of soy.
Soy has been a part of many skin care products for many years to minimize skin discoloration. Soybeans retain protein integrity for providing long-lasting skin benefits. So you can expect this face wash to make your dull and uneven skin to look more radiant and brighter.
The salicylic acid in here does not disappoint when it comes to treating and clearing up blemishes. Its a hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic cleanser that dermatologists recommend for acne-prone or damaged skin all across the globe.
PROS
- Pump tends to get clogged frequently.
- The fragrance aggravates sensitive skin.
Babyface 6% Salicylic Face Wash
My favorite one
This is just not an acne fighter but also defends your premature aging. It works nicely to manage excess oils or combo features with the t-zone area.
You will love: The face wash contains activated charcoal, 6% salicylic acid, white tea, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. The right concentration of the salicylic acid helps kill acne-causing bacteria, open up clogged pores, remove blackheads, and calm inflammation. And BABYFACE did so!
Its activated charcoal absorbs dirt deeper to detoxify the skin while salicylic acid also fades dull skin, redness, and blemishes. Some vitamins are also blended in this cleanser to make it perfect so that you can protect the skin from drying out and harmful radiations also.
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Panoxyl Acne Foaming Wash 10% Benzoyl Peroxide
- Price: $
Cystic acne is a type of acne thats usually characterized by pus-filled, deep, and painful pimples, making it important to find a cleanser that can successfully remove acne-causing bacteria and calm down any irritation caused by cystic pimples.
However, you wont have to worry about disturbing painful cysts or breaking the bank when using this deep cleaning cleanser.
Board certified dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse, FAAD, explains that it unclogs pores and redness with each wash.
This cleanser helps kill acne-causing bacteria and is comedolytic, meaning it unclogs pores, Shainhouse says. Similarly, it also has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce redness.
Promesse Daily Facial Cleanser
Promesse combines salicylic acid with two powerfulAHAs, glycolic acid and lactic acid. While the salicylic acid stops acne in itstracks, the glycolic and lactic acids replenish vital antioxidants. The resultis remarkably clearer, smoother skin that does not suffer from irritation oroverdrying.
This Promesse formulation also contains aloe for additional soothing and hydration. With anti-aging ingredients, skin is made smoother and fine lines and wrinkles appear less prominent. Other benefits include the fading of sunspots and discoloration. If you are dealing with keratosis pilaris, cystic acne or rosacea, all of these conditions may be improved with the use of this product.
You can find it here.
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Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Face Wash
This is one of the best rated and affordable face wash with salicylic acid. This facial cleanser is developed and recommended by Dermatologist because it comes from Professional skin care range. It cleanses the skin to free up the oils and other impurities, responsible for creating blackheads and whiteheads on skin parts like forehead, nose etc.
Choose Blackhead Remover Cleanser With Salicylic Acid Products With Good Material

The material goods that we buy are no longer made with the same materials they were years ago, and this can have a huge impact on their longevity. For many of us, buying something used is not an option because its hard to know whether or not its quality will last for more than a few months.
And consumers simply accept that their cheap purchase will break at some point because that is just how things work in these countries. The material of the product is a detail that you may care about. For example, if someone is looking for a purse, they might want to know whether its made of genuine leather or some other kind of materials like plastic and fabric. Material can affect how something feels and looks as well as its durability.
Pay attention to measurements when ordering online because sizing can be different across brands and even within the same brand across colors or styles! Make sure that if there are two sizes available that you order one size up from what you usually wear.
The blackhead remover cleanser with salicylic acid product needs a warranty or guarantee for defects in workmanship and material.
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Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Cream Facial Cleanser With Salicylic Acid
The Clean & Clear cleanser is a creamy face wash that prevents breakouts and controls shine. If you struggle with excessive shine and a greasy layer on your skins surface, use this affordable cleanser. This cleansing product can wash away up to 85% of oil and gunk on the face, so you can be confident the excess sebum is eliminated. The formula contains enough salicylic acid to clear up any blemishes or acne and cleans pores effectively.
The formula is gentle and non-abrasive. Its recommended for people with normal, combination, and oily skin. The product is suitable for everyone who struggles with blemishes and imperfections.
At such a low price, its no wonder this cleanser is one of the bestsellers at drugstores. We included it because it offers the best value as an over-the-counter acne medication.
Pros
- It is an affordable drugstore priced product that costs approximately $8.
- It has a gentle formula that works on all skin types.
- The formula absorbs into the skin quickly, so cleansing is quick and easy.
Cons
- Since the product takes away all of the excess sebum on your skin, it could make your skin look dry and dehydrated.
How To Clear Up Blackheads/pores On Nose
How to Get Rid of Blackheads on Your Nose, and Forehead Wash your face at least twice a day. This sounds like simple advice, but cleaning can go a long way in preventing dirt and oil build-up. Also wash your face after exercising. Excess sweat combined with dirt, bacteria and skin cells can clog pores, leading to blackheads. Use anti-pore strips carefully and sparingly.
Best dark spot removerWhat is the most effective dark spot remover? Hydroquinone is a powerful skin lightener that can remove dark spots, even skin tone and lighten age spots. Hydroquinone stops the production of excess melanin. This formula also contains vitamin C, which can already significantly lighten the skin, as well as glycolic acid.What is the best home remedy for dark spots?Lemon juice
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For Acne Prone Or Oily Skin
Unlike physical face scrubs this face serum is best for all skin types specially acne or sensitive skin. Best as regular exfoliator for oily acne prone skin.
Buy SL AdvancedFace Serum of Premium Quality and Savor its Benefits Now!SL Advanced
STEP #1
Apply once . Gently pat 1-2 drops into the face and neck after cleansing.
STEP #2
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser
This cleanser contains salicylic acid topped with willow bark extract, which is a natural source of salicylic acid. It addresses congestion, blackheads, and enlarged pores.
Because the vegan formula is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory with tea tree oil, witch hazel, and zinc PCA. The gel texture is non-comedogenic and is formulated with mineral-rich seawater and washes away acne-causing bacteria.
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Versed Just Breathe Clarifying Serum
Formulated with naturally-derived salicylic acid, niacinamide, and zinc PCA, the serum hits the trifecta for clear skin. All you need for unclogging pores, improving scars, and reducing acne are packed inside this affordable and non-toxic serum.
The light serum also has a hydrating base thanks to hyaluronic acid to replenish oily and dehydrated skin and reduce the look of enlarged pores.
The Best Face Wash For Blackheads And Fighting Inflammation: Paulas Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser
Price: $13.00
Salicylic acid combines with Vitamin B5, making this fash wash both a skin purifier and a skin calmer. The combination of ingredients works to reduce inflammation and redness of the skin. There are no parabens and no fragrances, yet you will have impeccably clean skin.
The gel texture of this face wash soothes and cools the skin. You can also use this face wash to remove your makeup. Paulas Choice recommends using it twice, so you get both the makeup removing and skin-clarifying effects.
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Acnefree 3 Step Acne Treatment Kit
Simple question what makes this so special? The AcneFree 3 Step Acne Treatment Kit consists of a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer specifically created for sensitive skin. So if your skin type falls in that category, you can rest assured knowing this skin care kits got you covered.
The 1.5-percent salicylic acid in the facial cleanser is just what you need to get rid of breakouts. And while doing so, it doesnt destroy your skins natural barriers and nutrients.
As for the toner, its alcohol-free and packed with fruit enzymes. These enzymes are derived from the extracts of apple, orange, and lemon. Theres also tea tree extracts and ginger for soothing and hydrating your skin.
The third product is a gentle moisturizer equipped with 3-percent benzoyl peroxide. This particular active ingredient also works best on sensitive skin to treat acne continuously throughout your day.
Needless to say, the kit contains all the right products that come in contact with acne only to destroy it. This is why this is one of the best salicylic acid face washes outside of the Neutrogena brand.
PROS
- Your skin might become dry.
Salicylic Acid Is An Anti

Salicylic acid helps speed the clearing of blackheads as an anti-inflammatory and antipruritic, meaning it helps relieve itching. By keeping swelling to a minimum, salicylic acid may reduce the likelihood of sebum getting trapped within pores.
In addition, by reducing or eliminating itching ,salicylic acid can reduce the temptation to pick or scratch at blackheads, which may further reduce the chances of infection or scarring.
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What Is Salicylic Acid And How Does It Work
Salicylic acid sits within the skincare acid family, but it is different from others. Glycolic, lactic and mandelic are all alpha hydroxy acids, whereas salicylic is classified as a beta hydroxy acid: in fact, its the only one used in skincare.
Naturally sourced from willow tree bark, this fat-soluble beta hydroxy acid penetrates follicles to break down oil build-up, reducing and preventing pore blockages, explains dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross.
Of course, salicylic acid is famed for its spot-fighting powers, but a good product will actually do much more than shrink down an angry pimple, as Dr. Gross explains. A keratolytic agent, salicylic acid reduces the pH of skin and increases hydration as well as encouraging the process of desquamation . It can also directly dissolve keratin plugs and regulate skin cells to fight acne and blemishes.”