When looking for a salicylic acid face wash, consider one between 0.5 and 2% salicylic acid, whether the formula is hydrating, and is effective for oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin types. We researched dozens of salicylic acid face washes and evaluated them for active ingredients, price, and whether they had a fragrance. We also spoke with experts, including Dr. Garshick.
Here are the best salicylic acid face washes on the market.
Price at time of publication: $16
The fragrance-free gel is also infused with panthenol to moisturize, calm, and refresh the skin. Reviewers love the lather it creates, as well as the soft, fresh-faced feeling it leaves behind.
Price at time of publication: $15
Price at time of publication: $9
The dermatologist-tested scrub is non-comedogenic, and it doesn’t contain any chemicals like parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances. But because it’s a scrub, it’s always a good idea to be gentle when you use it, and moisturize your skin thoroughly afterward.
Price at time of publication: $9
Price at time of publication: $54
The formula also includes Icelandic kelp. While scientists don’t know the exact mechanism of action, Icelandic kelp is thought to work by detoxifying the skin and soothing inflammation, while cylindrica seed oil is thought to help repair the lipid barrier to prevent dryness.
Reviewers swear by this face wash, noting that a little bit goes a long way for a luxurious lather.
Price at time of publication: $30
Price at time of publication: $42
Price at time of publication: $34
Price at time of publication: $16
Two percent is a safe and effective concentration for normal, oily, and acne-prone skin types. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a less intense cleanser with 0.5% to 1% salicylic acid.
Moisturizers
Salicylic acid can easily throw off your skin’s hydration balance, resulting in dryness, redness, and irritation, and other uncomfortable side effects. That’s why some face wash formulas include ingredients like soothing botanicals, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide moisturizers. Look for products that include one of these elements when you can.
“Sensitive or dry skin types are often not able to tolerate salicylic acid ingredients due to enhanced irritation or dehydration of the skin,” says Dr. Carqueville. “Make sure to apply moisturizer to the skin after using these products so that the skin doesn’t become overly dry or irritated.”
Clean Ingredients
It’s always a good idea to keep chemicals like parabens and sulfates away from your skin, especially on your face. Keep an eye on those labels and opt for natural, organic, and clean products when possible.
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“Salicylic acid on acne skin should show improvement in the severity of lesions and by a decrease in the number of lesions by five days,” says James Beckman, M.D., Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Adjunct, Associate Clinical Professor-Dermatology Department at UAMS (Arkansas Medical School). “Skin will become smoother as well due to exfoliation. When these changes are seen, it is a sign that the medication is of good quality and that it is working successfully.” But be patient because it can take a few weeks to show up on the skin.
Salicylic acid use can make skin more photosensitive, so wearing SPF daily is a must. “Due to sun sensitivity, sun protection is recommended when using salicylic acid on sun-exposed skin,” says Dr. Beckman.
Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble, so it penetrates deep into pores to eliminate excess oil and unclog the pores. It also acts as an exfoliant and helps to get rid of dead skin cells to help improve the tone and texture of the skin. Additionally, it can also help reduce inflammation, so it can be helpful for all types of breakouts. Although cleansers are a great way to incorporate salicylic acid or beta-hydroxy acids into your skincare routine, other helpful options include toners, peel pads, and serums. With many anti-acne products and exfoliants, using salicylic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is important to remember sunscreen. — Marisa K. Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist
Additional reporting to this story by Jennifer Nied
As a seasoned health writer, Jennifer Nied understands how vital quality product recommendations are for treating symptoms safely and effectively at home. For over 10 years, she has reviewed products, interviewed experts, scrutinized ingredients, and pored over research studies and claims, to help readers like you understand what works for your specific conditions. Every product in this piece was selected taking into account recommendations from doctors, published research, and real customer reviews.
