Salicylic Acid has pretty solid data in terms of its clinical effect in topical applications in both OTC and prescription applications. For the purposes for this post, we will only be covering its OTC application. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Let's go through some of these data points: ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🟣Lipid soluble - Salicylic Acid's lipid soluble property makes it an attractive ingredient for those that have acne, oily-prone skin as well as those with blackheads. ⁣⁣ W Brackett - Cosmet Derm, 1997⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🟣Desmolytic Agent - Salicylic Acid's lipid soluble property allows it to break the junctions between corneocyte cells, thereby leading to weakened intercellular cohesion, ultimately resulting in exfoliation. PMID: 26347269 ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🟣Keratolytic - exhibits keratolytic action by dissolution of intercellular cement substance causing desquamation of the horny layer of skin that holds debris and oil in your pores. PMID: 25604924⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🟣Anti-inflammatory: inhibition of the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (COX) modulates COX2 gene expression to decrease formation of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. ⁣⁣ PMID: 14592543⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🟣Photoprotection: One study found that Salicylic Acid, when applied prior to UVB exposure, had photo protective effects almost up to 12 hours after application. The reason being Salicylic Acid has a benzene ring in its chemical structure. Though, sunscreen is still an absolute necessity regardless of Salicylic Acid’s photo protective effects. PMID: 1676212⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🟣Decreases secretion of sebum: Decreases secretion of sebum in patients with acne. One study looked at the effect of pyruvic acid and SA on skin lipid film in patients with acne vulgaris, and found that SA had a greater effect in reducing sebum compared to pyruvic acid. (J Cosmet Dermatol. 2014;13:15–21.) ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ What's your favorite salicylic acid product? Comment below!