Salicylic Acid

Other names: 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, o-hydroxybenzoic acid, Beta Hydroxy Acid, BHA, Salicylic Acid

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Salicylic acid, also known as 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, o-hydroxybenzoic acid, Beta Hydroxy Acid, or BHA, is a chemical that is often used in the cosmetic industry and dermatology. This organic compound powder has a distinctive crystalline structure and acts as a bactericidal and keratolytic agent - that is, it counteracts bacteria while accelerating the process of sloughing off dead skin cells. In the past, salicylic acid has also been used in the treatment of various skin diseases such as psoriasis, acne, and warts.

Salicylic acid is very popular in cosmetic products, where it works as an active ingredient in skin tonics, creams to promote skin regeneration, peeling masks or acne cosmetics. It can also be used in anti-dandruff products, where it helps to rid the hair and skin of dead skin cells. However, despite its beneficial properties, salicylic acid can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, so it is important to limit its concentration in products to a safe level, usually between 0.5 and 2%. In addition, this substance is a component of some pain and fever killers. It is one of the active ingredients in powders such as Anacin, Aspergum, or Bufferin.