A hero ingredient in our Anti-Blemish Solutions range, salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that sinks deep into the pores to exfoliate the skin, unclogging trapped oil, dead skin cells and debris. This makes it particularly effective for those with oily, blemish-prone skin. It can help to reduce blackheads, whiteheads and breakouts while also improving skin texture and radiance.

At Clinique, we use salicylic acid in fan-favourite formulas like Clarifying Lotion and Anti-Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel to promote a clearer, smoother complexion. Unlike physical exfoliants that work on the surface, salicylic acid can reach deep into pores to tackle congestion.

Beyond acne and blemishes, salicylic acid also encourages skin cell turnover, helping to reduce the appearance of post-acne marks and improve overall skin tone. When used consistently, it can help maintain a healthy, balanced, glowing complexion.

Salicylic acid can be found in cleansers, exfoliators, serums and spot treatments. At Clinique, we particularly recommend using it if you’re prone to blemishes and breakouts, or if you have oily or oily-combination skin.

As a cleanser (like Anti Blemish Solutions Cleansing Foam), apply to damp skin then rinse with tepid water.
As an exfoliating toner (like Clarifying Lotion), apply after washing your face, then follow with moisturiser.
As a serum or treatment (like Anti-Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel), apply directly to affected areas after cleansing.
For sensitive skin, we recommend applying every other day before gradually increasing frequency.

How often you use salicylic acid depends on your skin type and the strength of your chosen formula.

Absolutely. Salicylic acid is one of the best ingredients for treating and preventing acne and blemishes. It exfoliates gently, removing excess oil and pore-clogging debris that can cause blackheads and breakouts.

At Clinique, we incorporate salicylic acid in our Anti-Blemish Solutions line to help treat blackheads, whiteheads and blemishes while preventing new ones from forming. Unlike benzoyl peroxide, which kills acne-causing bacteria, salicylic acid focuses on keeping pores clear and reducing inflammation. 

It’s especially effective for those with oily or combination skin, as it helps regulate excess oil production. With regular use, it can also help fade post-blemish marks and scarring and improve skin texture.

Yes, it can. Salicylic acid accelerates skin cell turnover, meaning it can bring underlying clogged pores to the surface, before clearing them. This can lead to temporary breakouts, known as the purging phase, which typically lasts two to six weeks.

If breakouts persist beyond this period or worsen significantly, your skin may be irritated rather than purging. To minimise irritation, start slowly, use a gentle moisturiser and avoid over exfoliation and any harsh active ingredients.

Yes. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), meaning it’s oil-soluble and can sink deep into the pores to remove oil, dead skin and bacteria.

This makes it especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, as opposed to AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), which primarily exfoliate the skin’s surface.

Yes, but use with caution as this depends on your unique skin type and sensitivities. Both ingredients are powerful exfoliants, so using them together can cause irritation and dryness, particularly if you have particularly sensitive skin. 

If you want to incorporate both into your routine:

• Apply a gentle salicylic acid formula in the morning and your retinoid or retinol at night to minimise irritation.
• Apply on alternate nights if you have particularly sensitive skin, or follow a skin cycling routine, where you alternate actives with ‘rest days’ using only gentle, soothing formulas. 
• Whatever option you choose, follow with gentle, hydrating formulas and a minimum of SPF 50 during the day. SPF is particularly important as both salicylic acid and retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

If irritation occurs, reduce usage, then gradually reintroduce one product at a time. It’s worth noting that not every ingredient works for everyone; if you’re not seeing your desired results after several weeks of consistent use, or the ingredient is irritating your skin despite reducing frequency, it’s could simply mean that it’s not the best solution for your skin.

Yes – salicylic acid and niacinamide work well together, particularly if you’re looking to target blemishes or balance oily skin. Salicylic acid clears pores and reduces oiliness, while niacinamide soothes the skin, supports barrier function and reduces redness.

You can use them in the same routine:

• Apply salicylic acid first to exfoliate and clear pores.
• Follow with niacinamide to balance and hydrate the skin.

The easiest way to use salicylic acid with niacinamide is to find a formula containing both active ingredients. Our best option is our Even Better Clinical™ Dark Spot Clearing Serum, a gentle yet powerful formula combining salicylic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C to gently target blemishes, reduce post-blemish marks and keep the skin smooth, soft and hydrated.

Yes, but ensure you’re using them correctly as they can be potentially irritating when layered together. 

To use them effectively:

• Use vitamin C in the morning to brighten and provide antioxidant protection. 
• Use salicylic acid at night to exfoliate and clear pores.
• If using in the same routine, we suggest a targeted formula containing both salicylic acid and vitamin C, such as Even Better Clinical™ Dark Spot Clearing Serum. This formula combines the exfoliating, pore-clearing benefits of salicylic acid with the brightening properties of vitamin C, yet is hydrating, gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.