- Comedogenic
- 0 / 5
- Irritancy
- 1 / 5
- Fungal acne
- Safe
- Type
- Exfoliant (BHA)
- INCI name
- Salicylic Acid
- Also listed as
- Bha, 2-hydroxybenzoic Acid
Who should avoid it?
Suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Acne-safe breakdown
Salicylic Acid scores 0/5, so it is one of the ingredients acne-prone skin can use freely, and it is fungal-acne safe too. If a product containing it breaks you out, look at the other ingredients. Our scanner will flag them.
Products that contain Salicylic Acid
- CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser
- Minimalist Salicylic Acid 2% Face Serum
- Minimalist Salicylic Acid + LHA 2% Cleanser
- Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner
- The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Gel Face Wash with Salicylic Acid & Witch Hazel
- The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Fungal-acne safe ingredients list
Frequently asked questions
Is Salicylic Acid comedogenic?
No, it is non-comedogenic. Salicylic Acid has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. Oil-soluble and able to unclog pores. It is part of the fix, not the problem.
Is Salicylic Acid safe for fungal acne?
Yes. Salicylic Acid is not a known Malassezia (fungal acne) trigger.
Does Salicylic Acid cause acne?
It is unlikely to. Breakouts usually come from other ingredients in the formula, or from non-cosmetic causes.
What are other names for Salicylic Acid?
On labels it can also appear as Bha or 2-hydroxybenzoic Acid.