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

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

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Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

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