salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsa-lə-ˈsi-lik- 

: a crystalline phenolic acid C₇H₆O₃ that is used medicinally especially as a skin exfoliant and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic compare aspirin

Examples of salicylic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This is partly due to the 2% concentration of salicylic acid, which is the highest amount allowed in over-the-counter products. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 28 Feb. 2026

Ingredients like niacinamide, peptide, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and glycerin combine to create a powerful formula that delivers instant results. —Claire West, Parents, 13 Feb. 2026

Made for all skin types, the key ingredient in the Acne Cleanser is 2 percent salicylic acid, which is delivered with MicroClear technology and BarrierCare technology. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 11 Feb. 2026

Skin Pharm Clay Time Polishing Charcoal Mask: An exfoliating mask made with salicylic acid, kaolin clay and charcoal for smoother, clearer skin and a spa-level moment at home. —Avery Newmark, AJC.com, 9 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French salicylique, from salicyle, the group HOC₆H₄CO, from salicine salicin + -yle -yl

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for salicylic acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- 

: a weak acid used especially in the form of salts to relieve pain and fever

Medical Definition

salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- 

: a crystalline phenolic acid C₇H₆O₃ that is the ortho form of hydroxybenzoic acid and is used especially in making pharmaceuticals and dyes, as an antiseptic and disinfectant especially in treating skin diseases, as a keratolytic agent for skin exfoliation, and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic and in the treatment of rheumatism see aspirin