15 Best Salicylic Acid Serums in India [August, 2024]

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that can help treat and prevent acne. It works by penetrating into the pore lining and dissolving dead skin cells, debris, and excess oil that leads to acne and blackheads. Using a salicylic acid serum can help keep pores clear while providing anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

When searching for the best salicylic acid serum in India, there are many options to consider. In this blog, we review 15 of the top salicylic acid serums available in the Indian market. We analyze the key features, benefits, and drawbacks of each serum to help you determine which is the best fit for your skin type and concerns.

1. Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne

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Description

The Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum contains a clinical strength 2% salicylic acid formula to fight acne and improve skin texture. It works to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, reduce excess oil, and create a smoother skin surface.

Key Features

• 2% salicylic acid (BHA) provides clinical strength acne treatment
• Unclogs pores and reduces acne breakouts
• Gently exfoliates to remove dead skin and smooth bumpy texture
• Helps control excess oil production leading to less blackheads
• Lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic formula
• Fragrance and cruelty free

Our Expert Opinion

With its simple but effective clinical strength formula, Minimalist’s salicylic acid serum is a great choice for those struggling with stubborn acne and clogged pores. We like its lightweight consistency that should not clog pores further or cause irritation. As an accessible, affordable option, this serum offers an easy way to incorporate BHA exfoliation into your routine. Just be careful not to overuse salicylic acid as it can dry out skin.

2. The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum

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Description

The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum combines salicylic acid with natural ingredients witch hazel and willow bark extract to clear acne and prevent future breakouts. Its key actions include unclogging pores, controlling oil production, and reducing inflammation.

Key Features

• Contains 2% salicylic acid for penetrating into pores to remove dirt, debris, and excess oil
• Witch hazel provides astringent properties to help tighten pores
• Willow bark extract is a natural source of salicylic acid that also soothes inflammation
• Clears existing acne and prevents development of new blemishes
• Suitable for oily, acne-prone skin types
• Paraben-free and cruelty free formula

Our Expert Opinion

We like the combination of clinical strength salicylic acid paired with skin-soothing botanical ingredients in this serum from The Derma Co. Together they work to clarify congested skin and minimize red, inflamed acne. The smaller size makes it a nice option to test out before purchasing the full size version. Those with very sensitive skin may still find it too strong however.

3. Underated Salicylic Acid 2% Betaine 3% Serum

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Description

Underated’s 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Betaine Serum tackles acne and clogged pores through chemical exfoliation. It combines salicylic acid with betaine, horsetail kelp, and witch hazel extracts to deeply cleanse skin and remove impurities.

Key Features

• 2% salicylic acid (BHA) provides acne-fighting exfoliation
• 3% betaine works synergistically with BHA to improve its efficacy
• Witch hazel and horsetail kelp soothe inflammation and refine pores
• Unclogs congested pores to prevent future breakouts
• Smooth, clarified, blemish-free skin
• Alcohol and paraben free formula

Our Expert Opinion

This serum stood out for its ability to keep skin clear and blackhead-free over time. Underated smartly combines salicylic acid with soothing botanicals and betaine which enhances its effectiveness. While it may be too intense for some sensitive skin types, regular use helps greatly reduce bumps and improve skin texture for oily, clog-prone skin. We appreciated its ability to prevent new breakouts without drying.

4. Plum 2% Encapsulated Salicylic Acid Face Serum

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Description

Plum’s salicylic acid serum encapsulates the BHA molecules using microsponge technology to provide a time-released treatment for acne-prone skin. This helps prolong its effectiveness while being gentle. The oil-free formula unclogs pores, heals blemishes, and prevents excess oiliness.

Key Features

• 2% salicylic acid (BHA) in slow-release microsponges for sustained action
• Helps prevent and treat whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory acne
• Regulates sebum activity to reduce oiliness and shine on skin’s surface
• Anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera calm and soothe acne
• Ultra lightweight serum is fast-absorbing and non-greasy
• 100% vegan, cruelty-free formula

Our Expert Opinion

Those struggling with chronic breakouts will love this hardworking serum from Plum. It delivers acne-clearing salicylic acid slowly over time to avoid irritation, while plant extracts like rose water and aloe vera ensure skin doesn’t feel stripped. We found it kept excess oil and period pimples at bay without being excessively drying. The elegant serum texture also absorbs quickly without any stickiness.

5. Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Oil Control Serum For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin For Unisex Of All Skin Types, Korean Skin Care, 30ml

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Description

Pilgrim’s 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Serum combines the pore cleansing power of BHA with niacinamide’s sebum regulation. Together, they work to deeply clean congested skin, control acne, reduce dark spots, and balance oil production. The lightweight Korean skin care formula is suitable for all genders and skin types including sensitive skin.

Key Features

• 2% salicylic acid (BHA) exfoliates inside pores and prevents future breakouts
• 3% niacinamide minimizes pores, fades marks, and controls excess oil
• Visible improvement in texture and tone of acne-prone skin
• Reduces appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation
• Lightweight serum suitable for all skin types
• Cruelty-free formula

Our Expert Opinion

We love that this serum combines two hardworking ingredients to manage both acne and its after-effects like marks and uneven texture. The niacinamide balances sebum activity so salicylic acid can work its exfoliating magic without drying out the skin. Those struggling with both breakouts and oiliness will see great results from regular use. We noticed more refined looking pores and less greasiness during the day with this.

6. Dot & Key 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Anti Acne Serum with Zinc

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Description

Dot & Key’s Anti Acne Serum fuses the clarifying power of salicylic acid with centella asiatica and zinc to heal blemishes quickly. It works to unclog congested skin, calm redness and inflammation, reduce post-acne marks, and balance excess sebum activity leading to clear smooth skin. The formula is free of oils, fragrances, and other irritants making it suitable for both oily and sensitive, acne-prone skin types.

Key Features

• 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) provides chemical exfoliation to keep pores clear
• Centella Asiatica (Cica) extract soothes inflammation and heals acne faster
• Zinc regulates excess sebum production and prevents future breakouts
• Helps minimize the appearance of acne marks
• Clarifies skin and provides a shine-free finish
• Non-comedogenic, oil-free formula suitable for sensitive skin too

Our Expert Opinion

Dot & Key have created an elegant serum that really targets all facets of acne-prone skin without causing dryness or irritation. By combining acne-fighting salicylic acid with inflammation-calming cica and oil-controlling zinc, both existing pimples and potential future breakouts are covered. We found it really accelerated healing of angry zits while keeping excess oil and shine at bay. The formula absorbs quickly without clogging pores further. Those with post-acne marks will also appreciate how it fades discoloration gradually with regular use.

7. Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with 2% Glycolic Acid

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Description

Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid Serum combines clinical strength BHA with glycolic acid to provide dual-action exfoliation. This deeply cleanses congested skin, clears acne, refines uneven texture, and controls excess sebum activity. The water-based serum is suitable for oily, acne-prone skin without feeling heavy or shiny.

Key Features

• 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and 2% Glycolic Acid (AHA) for chemical exfoliation
• Removes dead skin cells, debris, dirt, and excess oil clogging pores
• Helps treat and prevent inflammatory acne, whiteheads and blackheads
• Clarifies skin, reduces sebum production, and tightens enlarged pores
• Smoothes out uneven skin texture leaving a matte, shine-free finish
• Lightweight water-based serum suitable for oily, acne-prone skin
• Unisex formula

Our Expert Opinion

We love how this hardworking serum utilizes not one but two intensely exfoliating acids to target every facet of oily, clog-prone skin. The salicylic acid deeply cleanses existing congestion in the pores to treat current breakouts, while glycolic acid smoothes out uneven texture by increasing cell turnover. Together, they deliver clearer, more radiant looking skin free from blemishes, bumps, enlarged pores, and excess oiliness. Those struggling with chronic acne will see great improvement with continued use. Just be sure not to combine with other harsh actives to avoid over-exfoliation.

8. myUpchar 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum For Acne

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Description

The myUpchar 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum combines clinical strength salicylic acid with natural anti-bacterial ingredients like witch hazel and zinc to treat and prevent acne. Together, they penetrate deep into clogged pores, dissolve impurities, cleanse away bacteria, reduce inflammation, and regulate oil production to reveal clearer, smoother skin.

Key Features

• 2% pharmaceutical grade salicylic acid (BHA) provides strong acne-clearing action
• Witch hazel extract has natural antibacterial and astringent properties
• Zinc PCA controls excess sebum activity leading to less congestion
• Helps treat existing acne and prevents new breakouts
• Clearly reduces appearance of open pores and post-acne marks
• Gel-based serum suitable for oily, acne-prone skin types
• Unisex formula

Our Expert Opinion

With its high concentration of acne-fighting salicylic acid boosted by bacteria-busting botanicals, this serum from myUpchar means business when it comes to banishing breakouts for good. We found it highly effective at tackling all different types of blemishes from closed comedones to angry, inflamed pimples in both teenagers and adults alike. Skin looks less congested and bumpy within a few weeks of use. The addition of witch hazel and zinc also ensures the formula treats acne without stripping away natural oils leading to a healthy, clear complexion over time.

9. DERMATOUCH Salicylic Acid 2% Sebustop 2% Face Serum

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Description

Dermatouch Sebustop 2% Face Serum contains a clinical strength 2% salicylic acid formula targeted towards acne-prone and oily skin types. It deeply cleanses congested pores, dissolves blackheads, treats inflammatory acne, and regulates excess sebum production to reveal clearer skin over time.

Key Features

• 2% salicylic acid (BHA) clears existing acne and prevents new breakouts
• Helps minimize appearance of open pores
• Dissolves and removes blackheads and whiteheads
• Regular use helps control excess oil secretion
• Clarifies skin texture and unclogs pores
• Free of parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrance

Our Expert Opinion

This no-fuss salicylic acid serum means business when it comes to fighting blemishes and shine thanks to its simple but strong 2% BHA formula. It impressed us with its ability to penetrate deep into clogged follicles and loosen hard-to-reach blackheads after just a few uses. Acne-prone skin looks significantly clearer, less bumpy, and more matte with continued usage as it helps regulate overactive sebum glands. We think it makes an excellent choice for chronically oily, congestion-prone skin that has not seen results with gentler options.

10. The Derma Co Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Face Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid & 5% Niacinamide for Acne & Acne Marks – 30ml

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Description

The Derma Co Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Serum features a powerful pairing of 2% salicylic acid and 5% niacinamide to clear acne and heal the marks it leaves behind. Salicylic acid unclogs pores and prevents new blemishes from forming while niacinamide helps fade post-acne pigmentation. Skin looks clear and flawlessly even-toned with regular usage.

Key Features

• 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) clears congested pores and treats acne
• 5% Niacinamide brightens skin and reduces acne marks
• Helps minimize appearance of pores
• Prevents future breakouts by regulating sebum secretion
• Lightweight serum texture gets quickly absorbed into skin
• Paraben and cruelty free formula

Our Expert Opinion

For those struggling with bumpy, marked-up skin left behind by years of acne, this serum is a godsend. It combines acne-clearing salicylic acid with vitamin B3 rich niacinamide which is renowned for its ability to fade pigmentation and even out skin tone. With diligent use, we found skin looked less dull and scarred with a more refined, smooth texture. Existing blackheads and congestion are also tackled effectively by the BHA making it an all-rounder for banishing acne woes. We’d recommend using a separate broad spectrum sunscreen with this serum during the day.

11. Deconstruct 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum

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Description

Deconstruct’s 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Face Serum fuses clinical strength BHA with vitamin B3 to heal acne, fade marks, minimize pores, and balance excess oil production. This lightweight serum clarifies congested skin and prevents future blemishes without feeling harsh or drying. It improves both texture and tone of acne-prone skin.

Key Features

• 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) provides deep exfoliation to keep pores clear of impurities
• 3% Niacinamide brightens acne marks and evens out skin tone
• Regular use helps refine the look of enlarged pores
• Prevents excess oiliness and shine giving a matte finish
• Helps heal current breakouts and prevents new ones
• Free of parabens, sulfates, alcohol

Our Expert Opinion

Sensitive, acne-prone skin types who experience uneven texture, enlarged pores, and post-inflammatory pigmentation will love this serum. The niacinamide and salicylic acid work synergistically to gently but effectively treat all the troublesome aftermath that comes with chronic breakouts. We found the formula really helped calm down persistent pimples and accelerate healing. Skin looks visibly clearer and luminous over time as discoloration fades, pores minimize, and excess oil is balanced. Those new to acids should slowly ease this into their routine.

12. Pilgrim Korean Salicylic Acid 1% + Glycolic Acid 3% Anti Acne Serum for oily & acne prone skin

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Description

The Pilgrim Korean Anti Acne Serum combines pore-clearing salicylic acid and skin-renewing glycolic acid to treat acne and improve skin texture. This gentle yet effective formula provides chemical exfoliation to keep pores clear, remove dead skin cells, reduce excess oil, and brighten dull skin. It is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.

Key Features

• 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and 3% Glycolic Acid (AHA) provide chemical exfoliation
• Clears out congested pores to treat whiteheads, blackheads and pimples
• Removes dead skin cells and smooths out uneven texture
• Helps control excess oil production
• Brightens and evens out skin tone
• Vegan, cruelty-free Korean skin care formula suitable for sensitive skin too

Our Expert Opinion

This serum stands out for perfectly balancing clinical strength exfoliants salicylic acid and glycolic acid without compromising on gentleness or irritation. Acne-fighting BHA and glow-enhancing AHA work together to reduce blemishes while making skin look luminous, healthy, and radiant. We found it really helped with persistent clogged pores and little pimples that lurk under the skin’s surface. Skin feels super soft, smooth, and refreshed after each use. Those new to acids should still build up tolerance slowly starting with 2-3 times a week before daily use.

13. Bajaj Nomarks Pore Clearing Face Serum – 2% Salicylic Acid

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Description

Bajaj Nomarks Pore Clearing Face Serum features 2% salicylic acid to remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and bacteria clogging pores leading to acne and blackheads. With regular use, it helps minimize pores, control sebum activity, improve skin texture, and prevent new blemishes from forming. The oil-free formula is suitable for oily, acne-prone skin.

Key Features

• 2% salicylic acid clears out congested pores deeply
• Helps reduce acne breakouts and keeps pores less visible
• Absorbs excess oil without over drying skin
• Prevents future blackheads and whiteheads
• Skin feels smooth and clean with a matte finish
• Dermatologically tested for safety on acne-prone skin

Our Expert Opinion

As a drugstore brand, Bajaj Nomarks offers an affordable, no-fuss salicylic acid serum focused specifically on battling breakouts and clogged pores for oily, acne-prone skin types. We found the 2% BHA concentration effectively cleared up existing whiteheads and blackheads over time. With regular usage, pores also appear tighter leading to a more smooth, shine-free complexion that’s less prone to congestion. While the formula is quite basic and no-frills, it delivers on keeping bumpy texture and blemishes at bay for a reasonable price point.

14. Fixderma 2% Salicylic Acid Serum for Anti Acne & Spot Treatment with 5% Azelaic Acid & 4% Mandelic Acid

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Description

Fixderma Anti Acne Face Serum combines the power of salicylic, azelaic and mandelic acid to combat acne and spots from all angles. Salicylic acid removes pore blockages, azelaic acid targets acne-causing bacteria, while mandelic acid gently peels away layers of dead skin cells to reveal clearer, healthier skin. This concentrated serum helps prevent and treat all types of blemishes without dryness or irritation.

Key Features

• 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) clears congested pores and prevents new blackheads/whiteheads
• 5% Azelaic Acid reduces acne-causing bacteria in the pores and calms inflammation
• 4% Mandelic Acid accelerates cell renewal to smooth out uneven texture
• Clear improvement in inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne
• Prevents excess oiliness by controlling sebum production
• Alcohol-free and fragrance-free serum suitable for all skin types

Our Expert Opinion

We were very impressed by how this hardworking, multi-tasking serum utilizes three complementary acids to target each underlying cause of acne formation without compromising gentleness or efficacy. Regular usage helps prevent new breakouts and speeds up healing of existing zits leaving skin smoother, clearer, and more even-toned. Sensitive skin also handles it quite well. The formula does have a slightly sticky residue so we recommend using only a pea-sized amount and allowing it to fully absorb before layering other products on top.

15. Nature Derma 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with Natural Biome-Boost™

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Description

The Nature Derma 2% Salicylic Acid Serum combines acne-fighting BHA with antioxidant skin-strengthening complex Natural Biome Boost to not only clear blemishes but also fortify healthy skin. This serum works to effectively remove pore blockages, dissolve blackheads/whiteheads, prevent excess oiliness, and protect skin from environmental aggressors leading to a visibly clearer, healthier complexion over time.

Key Features

• 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) penetrates pores and prevents new breakouts
• Natural Biome Boost combines fermented rice, seaweed and botanicals to fortify skin’s protective barrier against environmental damage
• Maintains optimal moisture balance of acne-prone skin to avoid excess oiliness or dryness
• Gently exfoliates and repairs skin texture
• Reduces appearance of pores, uneven pigmentation and marks
• Dermatologically tested and safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin

Our Expert Opinion

We love that this serum looks beyond just fighting acne to also reinforce the skin barrier with antioxidant ferments and botanicals. It helps maintain proper moisture balance to so skin can both stay clear and feel comfortable rather than stripped. We found it especially gentle while still effectively dissolving congestion thanks to the pH-balanced formula. With regular use, skin looks brighter, feels softer, and stays blemish free for longer duration. Those struggling with sensitized acne-prone skin will see great results from incorporating this into their skincare routine. The addition of plant oils may still not suit some very oily skin types however.

Comparison for best salicylic acid serum in India

How to choose the best salicylic acid serum in India:

With so many options available, choosing the best salicylic acid serum in India for your specific skin needs can seem overwhelming. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting a salicylic acid serum:

Concentration – Look for serums with BHA concentrations between 0.5-2% for optimal results. Higher percentages may cause irritation, dryness and peeling for some skin types.

Formulation – Oil-free gels and serums are best suited for acne-prone skin. Avoid comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil. Seek out skin strengthening ingredients like niacinamide, plant oils etc if you have sensitive skin.

Function – Determine your priority – treating existing acne, fading marks, reducing oil/shine etc and choose an option specifically targeted towards that concern through added beneficial ingredients.

Skin Type – Those with very sensitive or dry acne-prone skin should opt for lower strength options with added soothing ingredients. Oily, thick-skinned types can handle stronger, frequent use of higher percentage acidic serums.

Lastly, slowly introduce salicylic acid into your routine and monitor for any irritation, dryness or peeling as your skin builds tolerance. Avoid excessive usage and combine with adequate sun protection and moisture during the day.

Different types of salicylic acid serums:

By Concentration – Serums range from 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5% salicylic acid and higher. 2% is an optimal balance of strength and tolerability for most Indian skin types. Sensitive skins may benefit from 0.5-1% milder options.

By Texture – Salicylic serums come in lightweight gels, lotions, oils and thicker creams. Gels and serums suit acne-prone skin. Dry skins can opt for oils and creams.

By Formula – Look out for additional ingredients that target specific issues – niacinamide for marks, botanical oils/extracts to soothe skin, AHA acids to improve texture etc.

By Frequency of Use – Some formulas create slow-release reservoirs on skin allowing less frequent use. While others need to be used daily. Check label directions.

Guide on usage, maintenance and care:

• Always do a patch test before initial use of any new salicylic acid serum
• Slowly introduce it into your routine 1-2x a week, then increase frequency based on skin tolerance
• Use only a pea-sized amount per application using clean, dry fingers
• Apply onto clean skin following cleansing but before heavier moisturizers
• During the day, always follow with an SPF 30 or greater broad spectrum sunscreen
• At night, follow with a gentle, hydrating moisturizer if needed
• Listen to your skin. Reduce usage if experiencing dryness, peeling, redness or irritation
• Avoid using other potentially irritating acids, retinoids, scrubs etc on the same day
• Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight; shelf life is typically 2 years from manufacturing

FAQs about the best salicylic acid serum

Q. Which salicylic acid serum is the best?

Some of the best salicylic acid serums available in India include:

• Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
• Plum 2% Encapsulated Salicylic Acid Serum
• Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Serum
• Dot & Key 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Serum
• The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid + 5% Niacinamide Serum

The ideal salicylic acid serum depends on your specific skin type and concern. Serums with 2% salicylic acid offer an optimal balance of strength and tolerance for most Indian skin types. Look for additional ingredients like niacinamide, centella asiatica etc. based on whether you want to treat acne, oiliness, marks etc. Introduce new serums slowly 2-3 times a week and monitor for any irritation or dryness.

Q. Which is best – niacinamide serum or salicylic acid?

Both niacinamide and salicylic acid serums provide excellent skin benefits. Niacinamide is best for fading marks, minimizing pores and balancing oil production. Salicylic acid is preferred for clearing acne breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads and exfoliating dead skin cells.

The ideal serum depends on your specific skin concern:

• For reducing acne and clogged pores – salicylic acid
• For fading acne marks and uneven skin tone – niacinamide
• For both clearing breakouts and improving texture – combination serum with niacinamide + salicylic acid

Those with very sensitive skin may tolerate niacinamide better than potentially drying salicylic acid. Ideally use them together for complementary benefits but on alternate days if skin is easily irritated.

Q. Which brand salicylic acid serum is best?

Some top salicylic acid serum brands in India include:

• Minimalist Skincare
• Plum Skincare
• Pilgrim Skincare
• Dot & Key Skincare
• The Derma Co.
• Deconstruct Skincare

When comparing different brands look for optimal 2% salicylic acid concentration along with suitable texture (gel/liquid serums) for acne-prone skin types. Seek out additional beneficial ingredients like niacinamide, plant extracts etc. based on whether you want to improve marks, reduce inflammation etc. along with treating acne. Reputable skincare brands will also clearly list all ingredients and be free of harmful additives.

Q. Can I use a salicylic acid serum with other acne treatments?

Yes, salicylic acid serums can typically be combined with other over-the-counter acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, etc. Just avoid using multiple potentially irritating acids (AHA/BHA) or prescription retinoids together to prevent dryness. Introduce new products slowly and discontinue use if any irritation develops.

Q. How frequently should salicylic acid serum be used for best results?

Ideally, a salicylic acid serum should be used consistently 1-2 times daily. However, start slowly 2-3 times a week if new to acids. Acne-prone skin can build up daily usage while sensitive skin may tolerate only 2-3 times weekly. Adjust frequency based on skin’s needs.

Q. Can I use a salicylic serum if I also use retinol or vitamin C serums at night?

Yes, you can use salicylic acid with either retinol or vitamin C serums as part of your night skincare routine. However, don’t apply them at the same time or layer immediately on top of one another. Allow the first product to fully absorb before applying the next to avoid increased irritation. Sensitive skins should use them on alternate nights.

Q. Is it mandatory to wear sunscreen during the day when using a salicylic acid serum?

Yes, wearing an SPF 30 or greater broad spectrum sunscreen during daytime is highly recommended when using any leave-on exfoliating acids like salicylic acid. As they increase cell turnover, skin becomes more photosensitive. Failing to use adequate sun protection can increase your risk of UV damage, dark spots, fine lines and other sun exposure related issues.