Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid; penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and desquamate. Effective 0.5%-2% for acne and exfoliation. Increases photosensitivity; daily SPF advised. Avoid layering with strong retinoids/AHAs on sensitive skin. EU restricts use in under-3s (except shampoos) and requires warning labelling
Function & Common Use
Active (Exfoliation / Anti-acne / Keratolytic); also preservative
Active Ingredient
Acne serums, cleansers, toners, spot treatments, exfoliating pads, anti-dandruff shampoos
Synthetic (also naturally occurring in willow bark, wintergreen)
Concentration Limits
Regulated; preservative use up to 0.5%; cosmetic keratolytic use per CR 2020
2% leave-on / 3% rinse-off (Annex III cosmetic use); 0.5% as preservative (Annex V). Not for children under 3 except shampoos
0.5%-2% (OTC acne monograph, leave-on)
0.5% (preservative); functional acne active per MFDS
Baby restriction: Restricted - EU bars use (other than shampoos) in children under 3 years
Pregnancy: Topical low-concentration BHA generally considered acceptable, but high-dose or large-area use is commonly cautioned; oral salicylates contraindicated. Advise clinician review
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salicylic Acid safe to use in skincare?
Salicylic Acid has a Medium concern rating. Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid; penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and desquamate. Effective 0.5%-2% for acne and exfoliation. Increases photosensitivity; daily SPF advised. Avoid layering with strong retinoids/AHAs on sensitive skin. EU restricts use in under-3s (except shampoos) and requires warning labelling
Is Salicylic Acid allowed in India?
Salicylic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted with restriction; listed as permitted preservative and regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Regulated; preservative use up to 0.5%; cosmetic keratolytic use per CR 2020.
What is Salicylic Acid used for in cosmetics?
Salicylic Acid functions as: Active (Exfoliation / Anti-acne / Keratolytic); also preservative. It is commonly found in: Acne serums, cleansers, toners, spot treatments, exfoliating pads, anti-dandruff shampoos.
Can Salicylic Acid cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Salicylic Acid has an allergen flag (Low; can irritate at higher strengths). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Salicylic Acid safe for babies?
Salicylic Acid has baby/child restrictions: Restricted - EU bars use (other than shampoos) in children under 3 years. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
Permitted with restriction; listed as permitted preservative and regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020
Restricted - Annex III (skin/hair use) and permitted preservative in Annex V
Permitted; OTC acne drug monograph active at 0.5%-2% (leave-on) and up to 3% (wash-off)
Functional cosmetic active for acne-prone skin; regulated concentration
Permitted as cosmetic ingredient under AICIS; no specific restriction found
Not verified in source checked
EU Annex: Annex III entry 98 and Annex V entry 3
Identifiers
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