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

The main ingredients include gentle exfoliating acids like lactic acid and salicylic acid, plus hydrating panthenol and soothing allantoin to minimize irritation and redness. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 8 June 2026

The latter formula includes salicylic acid, the brand’s protein complex, niacinamide, and rosemary oil to address an oily and flaky scalp while helping support thicker, fuller strands. —Essence Wiley, InStyle, 8 June 2026

Using gentle acne products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide also may help reduce acne and folliculitis. —Julia Landwehr, Health, 5 June 2026

Ingredients like Bifida and Lactobacillus ferments support the scalp environment, while caffeine, biotin, niacinamide, and salicylic acid refresh buildup-prone roots and keep scalps feeling balanced. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 27 May 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