Arif T. Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: a comprehensive review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015;8:455-461. doi:10.2147/CCID.S84765 Norsworthy J, Bhatti Z, George T. Topical Salicylic Acid Hypersensitivity. Am J Ther. 2018 Sep/Oct;25(5):e568-e569. doi: 10.1097/MJT.0000000000000646. PMID: 29324467.

Wang S, Meng D, Wang S, Zhang Z, Yang R, Zhao W. Modification of wheat gluten for improvement of binding capacity with keratin in hair. R Soc Open Sci. 2018;5(2):171216. doi:10.1098/rsos.171216 Salicylic Acid is available in different concentrations, with each concentration designed for a specific purpose. Higher concentrated Salicylic Acid is used as a peeling agent, which can reduce the appearance of acne, melasma and dark spots, while lower concentrations can be used on a daily basis in cleansers and toners. Another important note: Every exfoliant should include some kind of emollient (a moisturizing agent, for example shea butter) and a humectant (an ingredient that seals the moisture in, such as coconut oil). As a bonus, the best body scrub for you should not only make your skin silky smooth, but create a luxurious shower environment too. Because who couldn’t use a few extra minutes of self-care? When to avoid body scrubs Due to the excess amount of sebum that sits on the skin surface, oily skins are prone to flare-up in blemishes and can be prone to acne. This requires them to have deep exfoliation, which can be performed with either a physical exfoliant, such as a physical face scrub or cleansing device, or chemical exfoliant such as salicylic acid.Gopaul R, Knaggs HE, Lephart JF, Holley KC, Gibson EM. An evaluation of the effect of a topical product containing salicin on the visible signs of human skin aging. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2010;9(3):196-201. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2165.2010.00512.x

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 If these skincare benefits sound good to you (and why wouldn't they?), then it might be time to explore other products containing salicylic acid, including for the scalp, hair, and body. Many products on this list combine salicylic acid with other actives for intense exfoliating and other benefits.Koster MI. Making an epidermis. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. 2009;1170:7. Published July 2009. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.04363.x. Fabbrocini G, De Vita V, Marasca C, Palmisano F, Monfrecola G. Salicylic acid for the treatment of melasma: new acquisitions for monitoring the clinical improvement. Skin Res Technol. 2013;19(4):466-73. doi:10.1111/srt.12070 How you should use salicylic depends largely on the type of product - higher concentrations are best used sparingly. Whereas others, such as those in the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear range are formulated for daily use. Below is our step-by-step guide on how to use Salicylic Acid. For sensitive-skin types, gentle chemical exfoliants that include PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) are ideal. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is also an excellent soothing ingredient for all skin types, but especially for sensitive skin. Colloidal oatmeal, chamomile extract, and shea butter make excellent additions to physical scrubs meant for sensitive skin, as they calm the skin and replenish it with plenty of moisture. This one is formulated to soften and smooth rough and bumpy skin, whether that's on your legs, arms, or elbows. It can be applied daily on any of those areas, so salicylic acid, lactic acid, and ceramides can go to work smoothing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. It's even fragrance-free and hypoallergenic for people with sensitive skin.

It’s commonly found in cleansers and spot treatment products but can also be found in acne-friendly make-up products and anti-dandruff shampoo.As it’s oil-soluble, salicylic acid can penetrate down into pores and dissolve excess sebum and debris, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin,’ explains Dr Zamani. It also regulates oil production.’ There's even salicylic acid in body lotion. "Salicylic acid lotion is good for removing dead skin on the body or bumpy skin (keratosis pilaris) or for softening elbows and knees," says Dr. Rabach. Salicylic Acid is an active skincare ingredient that exfoliates skin, controls excess sebum (oil) production, and keeps pores clear. It’s great for blemish prone skin and can refine and refresh skin in as little as 7 days with daily use.