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The 8 Best salicylic acids of 2024

Are you trying to find salicylic acids among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!

We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling salicylic acids on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 15 hours of research and did 21 salicylic acids tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!

An overview of our top picks

Table of contents

The best salicylic acids you can buy today

No. 1
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant, Gentle Facial Exfoliator for Blackheads, Large Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, Travel Size, 1 Fluid Ounce
  • GENTLE NON-ABRASIVE LEAVE-ON EXFOLIATOR: with 2% BHA (Beta hydroxy acid) to unclog & diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles & brighten & even out skin tone; Combats redness, wrinkles, aging, enlarged pores, & blackheads
  • Dramatically improves skin's texture for radiant youthful even-toned skin; Beta hydroxy acid (BHA also known as salicylic acid) mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores
  • HYDRATE, BRIGHTEN & SMOOTH FINE LINES: Our unique, non-abrasive, leave-on exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types; Exfoliates dead skin cells while clearing pores for a more even tone, plus it visibly reduces fine lines & wrinkles
  • Paula's Choice facial exfoliants are gentler on delicate skin of the face & neck than an abrasive face scrub, which can cause micro-tears; A BHA leave-on exfoliator delivers hydration & can exfoliate directly inside the pore & improve how the pore works
  • Paula's Choice Skincare makes science-backed products that work. No fragrance, no parabens, no fluff. Just effective, cruelty-free formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.
SaleNo. 2
Pure Original Ingredients Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (30 mL) by Pure, Treats Acne, Hyper-pigmentation, & Premature Aging, Daily Use Facial Serum
  • Specifically formulated for acne, age spots, large pores, fine wrinkles, under eye bags, & even skin pigmentation
SaleNo. 3
CeraVe SA Cleanser | Salicylic Acid Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides| BHA Exfoliant for Face | Fragrance Free Non-Comedogenic | 8 Ounce
  • [ EXFOLIATING FACE WASH ] Salicylic acid (SA) is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), an effective exfoliator that removes dead skin cells and promotes radiance. Salicylic acid acts as a chemical exfoliant which feels less harsh than physical ones like face scrubs
  • [ FOAMING CLEANSER ] Dispenses as a clear gel and transforms into a foaming face wash as you lather. With hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin D, this facial cleanser cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates skin without leaving a stripped & tight feeling
  • [ FACE EXFOLIATOR FOR ACNE PRONE SKIN ] This face cleanser is suitable for acne prone, oily skin and even those with psoriasis. Cerave SA skin care products provide exfoliation and skin relief to dry skin, rough and bumpy skin, and all other skin types
  • [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products, formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
  • [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS & #1 DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED SKINCARE BRAND ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin; sensitive skin; oily skin; acne-prone; and more. FSA Eligible & HSA Eligible
No. 4
Salicylic Acid 20% Peel, Professional Grade, Hyper-pigmentation, Premature Aging, Facial Serum, 1 fl oz with glass dropper (1 fl oz)
  • Professional Solution; Always test in a small area of skin to gauge reaction before first use
  • Ingredients are Propylene Glycol and Salicylic Acid
  • Always use a neutralizer after application
No. 5
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne, Blackheads & Open Pores | Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture | BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Acne Prone & Oily Skin | For Women & Men | 1 fl oz/30ml
  • [ BLACKHEADS REMOVAL SERUM ]: Our salicylic acid easily penetrates the pore lining and scoops out the dirt, debris, and sebum (clinically proven to work better than oil-based traditional salicylic acid), so skin looks clear and soft. Removes blackheads & whiteheads by keeping your pores clean and controlling excessive oil. It is a potent exfoliant for oily acne prone skin.
  • [ PORE CLEANSING & TIGHTENING ]: 2% BHA helps in pore cleansing by flushing out oil and dirt, minimizing pore size. Regular use not only reduce blackheads and whiteheads but also prevents future blackheads, resulting in clear skin. You can include it in your night skin care routine for pore exfoliation.
  • [ ANTI ACNE & BALANCES OIL ]: Removes excess oil and shine resulting in a matt look. Aloe added reduces the acne redness and soothes skin along with providing hydration. By effectively controlling oil production it acts as a potent anti acne (or pimple) serum.
  • [ CLEAN & TRANSPARENT BEAUTY ]: This serum is (i) Fragrance-free (ii) Silicones-free (iii) Sulfates-free (iv) Parabens-free (v) Essential Oils-free and (vi) Dyes-free. Also, it is non-comedogenic, oil-free, and hypoallergenic. Formulated at pH 3.5 - 4.0 with RonaCare Salicylic Acid Extra Pure from Merck, Germany, a global natural chemistry company.
  • [ FOR ACNE PRONE & OILY SKIN ]: Unlike physical face scrubs BHA exfoliant are best for all skin types specially acne or sensitive skin. They are best as regular exfoliator for oily acne prone skin.
SaleNo. 6
CeraVe Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment with Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid | AHA/BHA Acne Gel for Face to Control and Clear Breakouts |1.35 Ounce
  • [ACNE TREATMENT FOR FACE WITH BHA/AHA EXFOLIANT] Formulated with Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), to help clear acne & prevent new breakouts and alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), a blend of Lactic and Glycolic Acids, to help smooth and soften skin
  • [PORE MINIMIZER] Helps to minimize the appearance of pores & reduce blackheads. Also formulated with Niacinamide to help soothe skin and Hyaluronic Acid to help maintain skins natural moisture
  • [ ALCOHOL FREE & HYDRATING GEL ] fragrance free, paraben free, oil free, and non-comedogenic skin care. Formulated without drying alcohols like denatured alcohol, commonly found in acne spot treatments, which can cause excessive dryness.
  • [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products, formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
  • [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin; sensitive skin; oily skin; acne-prone; and more. FSA Eligible & HSA Eligible
No. 7
Amazon Basics Advanced Blemish Spot Treatment with 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Medication, 0.75 Fluid Ounces, 1-Pack
  • Includes one 0.75 ounce tube of Amazon Basics Advanced Blemish Spot Treatment with 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Medication
  • Formulated with 2% Salicylic Acid
  • Salicylic Acid used for the treatment of Acne
  • Clean the skin thoroughly, cover the entire affected area with a thin layer one to three times daily
  • Running low? Restock by asking, "Alexa, order Amazon Basics Spot Treatment" through your Alexa device.
No. 8
The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser, Face Wash for Acne, Blackheads, Oily Skin and Breakouts, Safe for All Skin Types, 5.0 fl oz
  • The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser. This non-drying, lightly foaming cleanser removes makeup and dirt, while penetrating deep into pores to reduce blackheads and breakouts.
  • Oil Reducing Cleanser. Target enlarged pores, impurities and excess oil while promoting a more even looking complex
  • Powerful Ingredients, Real Results. 2% Salicylic Acid unclogs pores and exfoliates while our Zinc Compound reduces excess oil. 0.% Allantoin helps soothe irritation.
  • How To Use. Gently massage a raspberry-size amount of cleanser onto dampened face and neck for at least 60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Use AM and PM and follow with your preferred skincare routine.
  • Your Needs, Our Knowledge. We believe that better knowledge powers better decisions. Skincare is a journey, and we are in it together.
No. 9
PURE ORIGINAL INGREDIENTS Salicylic Acid 5% Solution (30 mL), Gentle Exfoliating Serum/Mask for Smoother & Clearer Skin, Treats Blackheads, Acne & Clogged Pores
  • Specifically formulated for acne, age spots, large pores, fine wrinkles, under eye bags, & even skin pigmentation
  • Can help prevent future breakouts & even skin tone
  • Effective yet gentle; Safe for daily use in the morning and evening
  • Professional grade chemical serum
  • For best results, use a small drop directly on spots, or use a gauze pad to apply to entire face
No. 10
Salicylic Acid Solution (1 Ounce / 30 mL), 2% Salicylic Acid Serum Clearing Pores, Promotes Exfoliation, and Controls Excess Oil in the Pores, Salicylic Acid 2% Solution by Talsen Chemicals
  • 2% Salicylic Acid Solution is an effective yet gentle exfoliant that penetrates pores to unclog them, making it ideal for addressing various skin concerns.
  • Salicylic Acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin's surface promoting a smoother texture.
  • 2% Salicylic Acid solution deeply cleanses pores, making it an effective tool for minimizing pore size and preventing future blockages.
  • Salicylic Acid 2% Solution helps control excess oil production, making it a valuable addition to a skincare routine for individuals with oily or combination skin.
  • Our formula features just 2 ingredients. Our goal is to remain as transparent as possible and to deliver a product that is gentle on the skin and gives effective results. It's suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

How to choose a good salicylic acids

Does the idea of finding a fantastic salicylic acids make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!

Your presence here indicates that you are interested in salicylic acids. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top salicylic acids products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?

First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top salicylic acids on the market right now!

The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:

Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top salicylic acids brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.

Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top salicylic acids based on those.

Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.

Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.

Customer ratings:  Would it be accurate to suggest that the salicylic acids were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.

Customer Reviews: Like ratings,  provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.

Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good salicylic acids, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.

Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your salicylic acids.

Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting salicylic acids for months and years to come.

Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.

Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.

These are the standards by which we selected our salicylic acids. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.

Why should you believe us?

There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what salicylic acids should you purchase in 2022?

This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on salicylic acids.