We have surely come a long way since the days native Americans treated pain with concoctions prepared from the bark of the willow tree. And now, with advancement in science and the associated tech, we now know at least one of the substances that made the willow tree such a charm – salicylic acid. You will find this acid in a whole range of take-good-care-of-thyself products. From acne treatments and scar removal serums, to corn banishers and everything in-between, salicylic acid is one the industry’s most beloved.

Anyway…….

what really is salicylic acid.


Salicylic acid is one of many compounds commonly referred to as ‘keratolytics’, and yes, (thanks for asking) it has something to do with keratin, the protein responsible for the strength of your skin’s outer layer. You can think of keratolytic agents as ‘keratin-breaking’ agents. They breakdown keratin, to soften and shed off the outer layer of skin. It’s this ‘genius’ that makes salicylic acid, a go-to ingredient for cases where you may want to get rid of some old skin cells that just won’t let go.

And for my chemistry-oriented friends, salicylic acid belongs to a class of acids called monohydroxybenzoic acids (bit of a mouthful). They are capable of dissolving in fat, which makes salicylic acid well-suited for absorption into the skin and for breaking the fat-rich matrix that holds cells together.  Because of its chemical structure, salicylic acid is considered part of a bunch referred to as Beta hydroxyl Acids (BHA). These bad boys are common ingredients in exfoliants – products designed to remove the dead layer of cells and other dirt from the skin.

So, what can salicylic acid do for you

Salicylic acid is a revered ingredient in many top-performing skin care products. It’s a common substance in products that work to rid you of old, damaged and scarred skin, and excess oil with its entangled dirt. This where it becomes a matter of interest for most folks. Salicylic acid will be, and probably has already been coming to a dressing table near you in a range of product types, including enhanced cleansers, exfoliants, anti-aging serums and lotions, acne and breakout treatments. It’s also popular in prescription-only products such as those aimed at dandruff, psoriasis, eczema and for removing corns, calluses, and warts.

It is also used as a ‘way-paving’ agent, that opens up the skin to facilitate the absorption of another substance. This is common in conditions like eczema where the chronically inflamed skin may be too hardened to allow entry of other ingredients. 


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