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

Featuring the dynamic duo of vitamin C and retinol, boosted by the power of vitamin B3 (niacinamide) and salicylic acid, along with soothing organic aloe vera, squalane, hyaluronic acid, MSM and rose hip oil to rejuvenate, nourish and target uneven skin tone. —Tory Johnson, ABC News, 28 Mar. 2026

Instead of relying purely on hydration, this formula includes salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates and keeps pores clear so that breakouts don’t come back. —Hana Hong, Glamour, 25 Mar. 2026

The formula also features mandelic and salicylic acids to maintain clear pores, along with cica and green tea to calm irritation. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 25 Mar. 2026

Key Ingredients: Tea tree extract, centella asiatica extract (cica), 0.5% salicylic acid Best for: Blemish-prone skin, irritated skin Size: 3.38 oz. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 19 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