salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsa-lə-ˈsi-lik- How to pronounce salicylic acid (audio)
: 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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Clark suggests exfoliating with beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid, which assists in cell turnover and dissolves dead skin and debris that clog pores and lead to breakouts. Jasmine Washington, Seventeen, 14 Mar. 2023 This oil-free option from La Roche-Posay uses salicylic acid lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA), both very powerful and effective treatments for acne that break down oil and debris, gently exfoliate, and clear out pores, all while hydrating the skin. Nerisha Penrose, ELLE, 31 Jan. 2023 Fab's Glycolic Fix Extreme Cleansing Pads contain a powerful trio of five percent glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid to resurface skin, unclog pore buildup, and fade acne scarring. Sarah Han And Michelle Rostamian, Allure, 2 Nov. 2022 Zit-zapping ingredients salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and niacinamide work together to remove dead skin cells, reduce inflammation, and hydrate. Jasmine Washington, Seventeen, 9 Mar. 2023 Seborrheic dermatitis can usually be treated with medicated shampoos that contain tar, zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. Amanda Gardner, Health, 9 Mar. 2023 This face wash combats acne with its formula that includes salicylic acid. Danny Perez, Popular Mechanics, 15 Feb. 2023 After each AviClear session, Dr. Batra recommends staying off of retinol and other potential skin irritants (including salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, glycolic acids, vitamin C, and astringents) for 7 to 10 days. Jessica Ourisman, Allure, 2 Feb. 2023 Look for ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinol, some or all of which are likely already in your everyday skincare routine. Gabby Shacknai, Women's Health, 23 Jan. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'salicylic acid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of salicylic acid was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near salicylic acid

Cite this Entry

“Salicylic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/salicylic%20acid. Accessed 2 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

salicylic acid

noun
sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- How to pronounce salicylic acid (audio)
: 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- How to pronounce salicylic acid (audio)
: 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

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