Keratin binds epidermal cells together, protecting the deeper layers of skin. Many topical treatments encourage exfoliation and reduce the oil on the surface of the skin, but salicylic acid’s ability to penetrate deep into clogged pores is what sets it apart. One Amazon reviewer, who described it as the "best acne/blemish serum [they've ever used," wrote, "This is silky thin, absorbs right into your skin, will literally push out debris from your face because [salicylic] acid is small in molecular makeup." Salicylic acid cleansers can be used every day if you have excessively oily skin, but if you’re new to these products, every 2 or 3 days might be easier to tolerate. Over 10,000 Amazon shoppers left this "miracle in a bottle" a five-star rating, while over 1,500 went out of their way to write a glowing review. A couple notes on using salicylic acid safely. Though it'll help with blackheads, it's even more handy for clearing up whiteheads â always a good product to have on hand. Once inside an open comedone, salicylic acid also softens the keratin contained in dead cells that have mixed with sebum to clog the pores. If you experience excessive dryness after using salicylic acid, you may want to consider a blackhead treatment especially formulated for dry skin, such as one containing glycolic acid. (Other good-for-skin ingredients like aloe juice, centella asiatica, tea tree, and licorice root extract can be found in here as well.) You can either avoid retinoids completely or use your salicylic acid product during the day and your retinoid at night. The oil solubility of salicylic acid enables it to enter deep within skin pores, where it dissolves the sebum and dead skin cells that comprise blackheads. Salicylic acid is an effective pore-clearing ingredient that's well-tolerated by most skin types, which is why it's often recommended by dermatologists as a first-line treatment for acne. Is Salicylic Acid Good for All Skin Types? Salicylic acid is an effective pore-clearing ingredient that's well-tolerated by most skin types, which is why it's often recommended by dermatologists as a first-line treatment for acne. Salicylic acid helps speed the clearing of blackheads as an anti-inflammatory and antipruritic, meaning it helps relieve itching. Aside from salicylic acid’s keratolytic and desmolytic dissolving actions, salicylic acid can also decrease sebum secretions within the skin. This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) boasts exfoliating effects and is thought to prevent pores from becoming clogged. Salicylic acid may not be appropriate for dry skin. Looking for more information on how to clear a blackhead breakout? Bodemer, Apple A. What Types of Salicylic Acid Skincare Products Are Best for Blackheads? Unlike glycolic acid and lactic acid which are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), salicylic acid is a member of the oil-soluble, beta hydroxy acid family. Pads are a convenient, mess-free way to exfoliate your skin, and they're also super travel-friendly. Get your salicylic acid, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide at the same time with this lightweight moisturizer from InstaNatural. With that in mind, scroll on to shop seven of the best products with salicylic acid, all for less than $50 on Amazon. The chemical sounding name may give the impression of an aggressive artificial treatment, which could potentially be harmful to… Read More » It can be used like any other face cleanser. If you're looking to target blackheads or blemishes in certain areas, rather than all over your face, pick up this spot treatment from First Aid Beauty. Salicylic acid acts as a defense against blackheads, whiteheads and minor acne. Salicylic acid is an effective exfoliator that can be used to remove dead skin cells and clean out pores, while treating a wide range of skin concerns, leaving the skin visibly clearer and softer.