Best Salicylic Acid Cleansers, Tried & Tested

While you can find salicylic acid in everything from moisturisers to serums, cleansers with salicylic acid offer particularly impressive benefits. Cleansing is an essential step in your daily skincare routine, and salicylic acid is one of the most effective ingredients when it comes to deeply cleansing and exfoliating skin.

The active ingredient is beneficial for addressing concerns ranging from congested, acne-prone skin and blackheads to active breakouts, enlarged pores and excess oiliness. “Because salicylic acid keeps pores unclogged, it helps to clear whiteheads and blackheads, and to prevent pustules and papules from forming,” explains dermatologist Sonia Khorana. “It also exfoliates dead skin cells so skin feels smoother and appears brighter.” In short, it’s great if your skin is acne-prone or on the oilier side of the spectrum.