Salicylic Acid For Skin

Discover the Power of Salicylic Acid for Clearer, Smoother Skin

Target breakouts, oil buildup, and congestion with Salicylic Acid Skincare & Haircare. This powerful BHA exfoliator works deep within pores and the scalp to unclog, purify, and rebalance, helping you achieve clearer skin and refreshed, healthy hair.

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Murdock London Daily Shave Companion (Worth £56)
Murdock London Daily Shave Companion (Worth £56)

£31.19 £39.00 20% offsaving
iS Clinical Brightening Serum 15mliS Clinical Brightening Serum 15ml
iS Clinical Brightening Serum 15ml

This lightweight and concentrated serum safely brightens skin with a hydroquinone-free and paraben-free formula that gently resurfaces skin and provides long-term visible improvements.

£83.00
Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Booster bottleDermalogica Breakout Clearing Booster
Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Booster

£21.24 £25.00 15% offsaving
Dermatologist Recommended
Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Dermatological Shampoo for Normal to Oily Hair, 390ml Refill Pouch
Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Dermatological Shampoo for Normal to Oily Hair, 390ml Refill Pouch

£16.19 £18.00 10% offsaving
PCA Skin Acne Gel Advanced TreatmentPCA Skin Acne Gel Advanced Treatment
PCA Skin Acne Gel Advanced Treatment

This targeted acne treatment gel helps to clear up any existing acne and also prevent future breakouts.

£87.00
Dermatologist Recommended
Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Dermatological Shampoo for Dry Hair, 390ml Refill Pouch
Vichy Dercos Anti-Dandruff Dermatological Shampoo for Dry Hair, 390ml Refill Pouch

£16.19 £18.00 10% offsaving
DMK Revise A Exfoliant Vitamin A Creme
DMK Revise A Exfoliant Vitamin A Creme

Existing Face the Future DMK customers can re-order by calling 0113 282 7744. New customers interested in purchasing DMK products can book a free consultation at our advanced skin clinic.

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Eminence Organic Clear Skin Probiotic MoisturiserEminence Organic Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturiser
Eminence Organic Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturiser

Eminence Organic Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturiser available from Face the Future. Eminence Organic Skincare products are free of parabens, animal by-products, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, harmful colourants and fragrances, mineral oils, petroleum and other...

£54.89 £61.00 10% offsaving
Dermatologist Recommended
CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser bottleCeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser

Efficiently cleanse and remove makeup, whilst delivering hydration with the CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser. This rich cream transforms into a foam to gently cleanse without disrupting the natural barrier.

£13.04 £14.50 10% offsaving
Blue ZO Skin Health Dual Action Scrub tubeZO Skin Health Dual Action Scrub
ZO Skin Health Dual Action Scrub

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Eminence Organic Strawberry Rhubarb DermafoliantEminence Organic Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant
Eminence Organic Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant

Eminence Organic Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant available from Face the Future. Eminence Organic Skincare products are free of parabens, animal by-products, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, harmful colourants and fragrances, mineral oils, petroleum and other harsh...

£46.79 £52.00 10% offsaving
Dermatologist Recommended
La Roche-Posay Breakout-Fighting Set- High Strength: Effaclar Micro-Peeling Cleanser, Anti Blemish Serum & SPF50+
La Roche-Posay Breakout-Fighting Set- High Strength: Effaclar Micro-Peeling Cleanser, Anti Blemish Serum & SPF50+

£75.59 £84.00 10% offsaving
Dermatologist Recommended
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream 340ml tubCeraVe SA Smoothing Cream 340ml
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream 340ml

Alleviate rough and bumpy skin texture and leave skin feeling smoother and softer.

£20.24 £22.50 10% offsaving
VOTARY Blemish Rescue Oil - Tamanu and SalicylicVOTARY Blemish Rescue Oil - Tamanu and Salicylic
VOTARY Blemish Rescue Oil - Tamanu and Salicylic

Made with Salicylic Acid and Tamanu Oil, this blemish rescue oil treats blemishes without drying out the skin for a smooth, healed and clearer complexion.

£35.00
Hydropeptide 5X Power Peel Daily Resurfacing PadsHydropeptide 5X Power Peel Daily Resurfacing Pads
Hydropeptide 5X Power Peel Daily Resurfacing Pads

Promote a hydrated and smooth skin surface with resurfacing pads containing Glycolic, Lactic and Salicylic Acids to brighten and clarify skin.

£55.79 £62.00 10% offsaving
PharmaClinix Lightenex Bright 50mlPharmaClinix Lightenex Bright Cream 50ml
PharmaClinix Lightenex Bright Cream 50ml

New advanced formulation! This treatment inhibits melanin production, treating and preventing hyperpigmentation.

£14.99
Natura Bisse Stabilizing Cleansing Mask 75mlNatura Bisse Stabilizing Cleansing Mask 75ml
Natura Bisse Stabilizing Cleansing Mask 75ml

£44.00
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque 50mlThe Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque 50ml
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque 50ml

£11.65 £12.60 8% offsaving

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Bioderma Hydrabio Light Moisturising Cream Dehydrated SkinBioderma Hydrabio Light Moisturising Cream Normal to Combination Sensitive Skin
Bioderma Hydrabio Light Moisturising Cream Normal to Combination Sensitive Skin

£16.19 £18.00 10% offsaving
Tube of Margaret Dabbs Cracked Heel Treatment on a white backgroundMargaret Dabbs London PURE Cracked Heel Treatment Balm 45ml
Margaret Dabbs London PURE Cracked Heel Treatment Balm 45ml

£15.29 £18.00 15% offsaving
VOTARY Intense Overnight Mask - Rosehip and HyaluronicVOTARY Intense Overnight Mask - Rosehip and Hyaluronic
VOTARY Intense Overnight Mask - Rosehip and Hyaluronic

This intense overnight facial mask is infused with Hyaluronic Acid to brighten, soften and smooth your skin as you sleep for a flawless, radiant complexion.

£85.00
Gatineau SOS Stick on a white backgroundGatineau S.O.S. Stick 10ml
Gatineau S.O.S. Stick 10ml

£22.09 £26.00 15% offsaving
Nip+Fab Teen Skin Pad tubNip+Fab Teen Skin Pads
Nip+Fab Teen Skin Pads

£8.99 £9.99 10% offsaving
Nip+Fab Glycolic Glow Tonic 6% bottleNip+Fab Glycolic Glow Tonic 6%
Nip+Fab Glycolic Glow Tonic 6%

£12.62 £22.95 45% offsaving
Eucerin Dermopure Correcting Cleanser bottle on a white backgroundEucerin Dermopure Clinical Correcting Cleanser 400ml
Eucerin Dermopure Clinical Correcting Cleanser 400ml

£13.97 £21.50 35% offsaving
Minimalist Nonapeptide + AHA 6% Underarm Roll-On
Minimalist Nonapeptide + AHA 6% Underarm Roll-On

£8.49 £10.00 15% offsaving
Dermalogica Retinol Clearing OilDermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil
Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil

£72.24 £85.00 15% offsaving
PharmaClinix Lightenex Hand and Foot Intense 50mlPharmaClinix Lightenex Hand and Foot Intense Cream 50ml
PharmaClinix Lightenex Hand and Foot Intense Cream 50ml

New advanced formulation! This hand and foot cream corrects hyperpigmentation as well as exfoliating and moisturising dry skin.

£14.99
Votary Sensitive Resurfacing Peel, 10% Lactic Acid and Super Seeds 30mlVotary Sensitive Resurfacing Peel, 10% Lactic Acid and Super Seeds 30ml
Votary Sensitive Resurfacing Peel, 10% Lactic Acid and Super Seeds 30ml

£70.00
Nip+Fab Teen Skin Fix Pore Blaster Wash Night bottleNip+Fab Teen Skin Fix Pore Blaster Wash Night
Nip+Fab Teen Skin Fix Pore Blaster Wash Night

£6.29 £6.99 10% offsaving
Dermatologist Recommended
La Roche-Posay Breakout-Fighting & Post-Acne Mark Set: Effaclar Serum, Duo+M Anti Blemish Corrective Care & SPF50+
La Roche-Posay Breakout-Fighting & Post-Acne Mark Set: Effaclar Serum, Duo+M Anti Blemish Corrective Care & SPF50+

£70.64 £78.50 10% offsaving
Dermatologist Recommended
CeraVe SA Renewing Foot Cream and packagingCeraVe SA Renewing Foot Cream
CeraVe SA Renewing Foot Cream

This fast absorbing cream delivers moisture and helps to protect the natural barrier of the feet.

£8.54 £9.50 10% offsaving
Eucerin Dermopure Correcting Body Care tube on a white backgroundEucerin Dermopure Clinical Correcting Body Care 200ml
Eucerin Dermopure Clinical Correcting Body Care 200ml

£14.29 £22.00 35% offsaving
Eucerin Dermopure cleansing gel bottle on a white backgroundEucerin Dermopure Clinical Purifying Cleanser 400ml
Eucerin Dermopure Clinical Purifying Cleanser 400ml

£13.97 £21.50 35% offsaving
NIP+FAB Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads XXL container on a white backgroundNip+Fab Glycolic Fix Extreme XXL Pads - 100 Pads
Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Extreme XXL Pads - 100 Pads

£20.65 £22.95 10% offsaving
salicylic acid products for acne

About Salicylic Acid For Skin

Discover how salicylic acid works

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliant that penetrates deep within the pores to help dissolve oil, dead skin cells, and impurities that can lead to congestion and blemishes. Known for its ability to unclog pores and reduce blackheads, it is a trusted ingredient in oily skin treatments and acne-prone skincare routines. With consistent use, it helps refine skin texture, smooth uneven areas, and promote a visibly clearer complexion.

Find your perfect salicylic acid solution

Whether you prefer a gentle exfoliating cleanser, a clarifying toner, or a targeted pore-refining serum, salicylic acid supports a balanced and refined appearance. Those managing oily or combination skin will benefit from daily use, while more sensitive complexions can introduce it gradually. Pairing salicylic acid with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide helps maintain comfort and achieve smoother, healthier-looking results.

Personalised advice on salicylic acid use

Start slowly and monitor your skin’s response, using SPF protection daily to support long-term clarity and balance. To find the best salicylic acid product for your skin, contact our expert team, take our free online skin test, or read our blog’s expert skincare advice.

Nip+Fab Salicylic Acid for Smooth, Blemish-Free Skin

Target breakouts, congestion, and excess oil with NIP+FAB’s Salicylic Acid range. Designed to deeply exfoliate and unclog pores, these high-performance formulas help to reduce blemishes, smooth texture, and rebalance oily skin. Infused with additional soothing and hydrating ingredients, NIP+FAB’s Salicylic Acid Serums deliver powerful results without stripping the skin, leaving your complexion clearer, fresher, and more refined.

Shop nip+fab Salicylic acid

Dermalogica Salicylic Acid for Clearer, Balanced Skin

Refine your complexion and target breakouts with Dermalogica’s Salicylic Acid range. Expertly formulated to unclog pores, reduce excess oil, and prevent future blemishes, these powerful yet gentle solutions work to smooth skin texture and promote a balanced, healthy glow. Enriched with soothing and hydrating ingredients, Dermalogica Salicylic Acid Serums provide effective exfoliation without irritation, leaving your skin clearer, calmer, and refreshed.

shop dermalogica Salicylic acid

The Benefits Of Salicylic Acid And Why You Need It In Your Skincare Routine

The most searched for skincare ingredient of 2021, salicylic acid is acne’s arch-enemy and, if you suffer from breakouts, your new best friend.  Famed for its spot-fighting powers, the hero active is favoured by skin experts and beauty editors alike, is available in all-manner of formulations, and is incredibly easy to incorporate into your skincare routine.  It really is that good! 

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Expert Tip for Salicylic Acid

"Salicylic acid is a powerful ingredient for targeting breakouts, excess oil, and clogged pores. To get the most out of your routine, start with a salicylic acid cleanser to deeply purify and remove impurities. Follow with a salicylic acid serum to exfoliate and unclog pores, helping to refine skin texture and reduce blemishes. If your skin needs extra hydration, pair with a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser to maintain balance. Always finish with SPF during the day, as exfoliating ingredients can increase sun sensitivity."

- Kimberley, Clinic & Customer Experience Manager

TAKE THE FREE SKIN TEST

How to Treat Dry, Bumpy Skin using Salicylic Acid

You've probably heard of Salicylic Acid. It was one of the first actives to find fame during the recent rise in skincare - but did you know that it can help to seriously improve dry, bumpy skin? If you're looking to upgrade your skin's texture, whether on your face or body (or both), this BHA is for you. Read on to savvy up on Salicylic. 

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Discover the Best Salicylic Acid Skincare for Blemish-Prone Skin

Explore our curated collection of gentle yet effective salicylic acid cleansers, serums, and exfoliants designed to reduce breakouts, minimise blackheads, and support a smoother complexion.
FTF Award Winner
A single tub of mesoestetic Cosmelan 2 Depigmentation Creammesoestetic Cosmelan 2 Depigmentation Cream
mesoestetic Cosmelan 2 Depigmentation Cream

£162.45
iS Clinical Cleansing Complex 180mliS Clinical Cleansing Complex 180ml
iS Clinical Cleansing Complex 180ml

This clear, lightweight cleansing gel is powerful yet gentle enough for hypersensitive skin. Formulated with a balance of bio nutrients, antioxidants and mild resurfacing ingredients that thoroughly cleanse without stripping essential natural oils.

£48.00
Environ Focus Care Clarity+ Botanical Infused Sebu-Wash Gel CleanserEnviron Focus Care Clarity+ Botanical Infused Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser
Environ Focus Care Clarity+ Botanical Infused Sebu-Wash Gel Cleanser

£36.00
SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Defense SerumSkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Defense Serum
SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Defense Serum

Designed to prevent the formation of acne while minimising hyper-pigmentation and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles this product is perfect for those looking to tackle the ageing process as well as congestion.

£93.99 £105.00 10% offsaving
Medik8 Clarifying Foam
Medik8 Clarifying Foam

Thoroughly removes dirt, oil, impurities and make-up as well as unclogging pores but without ever drying the skin.

£25.00
Dermatologist Recommended
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M Moisturiser for Oily, Blemish-Prone Skin 40ml tubeLa Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M Moisturiser for Oily, Blemish-Prone Skin 40ml
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M Moisturiser for Oily, Blemish-Prone Skin 40ml

£16.64 £18.50 10% offsaving
NeoStrata Mandelic Clarifying CleanserNeoStrata Mandelic Clarifying Cleanser
NeoStrata Mandelic Clarifying Cleanser

£21.69 £31.00 30% offsaving
mesoestetic Melan Tran3x Intensive Depigmenting Concentrate containermesoestetic Melan Tran3x Intensive Depigmenting Concentrate
mesoestetic Melan Tran3x Intensive Depigmenting Concentrate

A light textured serum with intensive depigmenting action to fight the appearance of dark spots, pigmentation and regulate the formation of melanin.

£108.45
SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Cleansing GelSkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Cleansing Gel
SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Cleansing Gel

Formulated for ageing skin prone to blemishes this unique cleanser decongests the skin by removing any impurities and excess oils whilst also combatting the ageing process.

£44.99 £50.00 10% offsaving

Frequently Asked Questions

What is salicylic acid, and how does it work?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve excess oil, unclog congestion, and exfoliate dead skin cells. It helps to reduce breakouts, minimise blackheads, and refine skin texture for a clearer complexion.

Who should use a salicylic acid serum?

Salicylic acid serums are ideal for those with oily, acne-prone, or congested skin. They help control excess oil, prevent breakouts, and smooth uneven texture. If you have dry or sensitive skin, start with a lower concentration or use it less frequently to avoid irritation.

How often should I use a salicylic acid serum?

Most salicylic acid serums can be used once or twice daily, depending on your skin's tolerance. If you’re new to salicylic acid, start with every other day and gradually increase as your skin adjusts. Always follow with SPF during the day, as exfoliation can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

Can I use salicylic acid with other active ingredients?

Yes, but be cautious when combining it with strong actives like retinol or other exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) to avoid irritation. Pairing it with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help maintain balance in your skin.

Will salicylic acid dry out my skin?

Salicylic acid can be drying if overused, especially on dry or sensitive skin. To prevent this, use a hydrating serum or moisturiser alongside your routine and start with a lower concentration if you’re prone to dryness.

Can I use a salicylic acid serum if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, but opt for a lower concentration and use it sparingly. If irritation occurs, reduce usage or choose a formula with soothing ingredients like niacinamide or aloe vera to help calm the skin.

How long does it take to see results with salicylic acid?

Results vary, but many users notice improvements in breakouts and skin texture within a few weeks. For best results, use consistently and pair with a well-rounded skincare routine.

Where can I learn more about salicylic acid and its benefits?

Explore our blogs for expert advice, or contact our skincare specialists for personalised recommendations on finding the right salicylic acid serum for your skin concerns.