salicylic acid
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). Penetrates pores, exfoliates dead skin, and reduces sebum. Can cause dryness or peeling if overused.
- MicroplasticsNot flagged
- SugarsNot flagged
- Seed OilsNot flagged
- Skin
- FDAApproved for OTC acne treatments up to 2%
- EFSAApproved up to 2% in cosmetics
PubMed References
Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: a comprehensive review(2015)
PubMed (PMID 26010532)→Last reviewed: May 2026
FAQ
Is salicylic acid bad for you?
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). Penetrates pores, exfoliates dead skin, and reduces sebum. Can cause dryness or peeling if overused.
What does salicylic acid do to your body?
salicylic acid primarily affects: Skin.
How often is it safe to consume salicylic acid?
Daily: Beneficial for oily/acne skin types. Weekly: Excellent exfoliant. Monthly: Safe.
What products contain salicylic acid?
salicylic acid is commonly found in cosmetic products. Use the Zeral app to scan any product and instantly see if it contains salicylic acid.
Related Ingredients
Other Cosmetic ingredients you should know about
Found salicylic acid on a label?Scan it in 10 seconds.
Avoid looking up compound chemistry manually. Point your camera at any label — Zeral parses ingredients, matches PubMed studies, and scores them against your specific profile.
iOS & Android · Ad-free · Free to start
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is compiled from peer-reviewed scientific studies and regulatory reports. It is intended for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.