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Acne: Treatment With Salicylic Acid

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Acne: Treatment With Salicylic Acid

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Overview
Related Information
Credits

Overview

Salicylic acid is an active ingredient in some non-prescription acne treatments. When you apply it to your skin, it dries up whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. It also causes the top layer of your skin to peel.

Products that contain salicylic acid may cause tingling and a mild redness of the skin. Use them less often if you notice that your skin becomes very red or very dry.

You'll find salicylic acid mainly in pads that you rub on your skin. Brand names include Clearasil and Noxzema pads.

Related Information

Acne

Credits

Current as of: March 22, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Ellen K. Roh MD - Dermatology

Current as of: March 22, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Ellen K. Roh MD - Dermatology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.

Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

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