Description

Salicylic Acid (USP)

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) naturally derived from the bark of the willow tree. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are water-soluble and work mainly on the skin’s surface, BHAs are oil-soluble, allowing them to penetrate deep into pores, where they exfoliate excess oil, dead skin, and debris that cause congestion and breakouts.

While AHAs act quickly to resurface the top layers of skin and boost cellular turnover, BHAs like salicylic acid work more slowly and deeply, staying within the pores to dissolve buildup and target acne, blackheads, enlarged pores, and inflammation.

This deep-cleansing and anti-inflammatory action makes salicylic acid ideal for treating all types of acne, from whiteheads and blackheads to deeper cystic breakouts. It also helps refine pores, improve texture, and calm redness associated with rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions.

At concentrations between 0.5–2%, salicylic acid offers effective exfoliation and acne control. Higher levels generally do not provide additional benefits, so a 2% formulation remains the industry standard for most skincare applications.

Technical Details

INCI: Salicylic Acid (USP)
Purity: 99.7%
Appearance: Fine white crystalline powder (This product is not coated or enhanced. )
Solubility: Oil and alcohol soluble*
Recommended Usage:

• 0.5–1% for sensitive skin products

• 2% for active treatment products

Note: This product is not coated or enhanced. It will not dissolve, into alcohol, instantly or without effort. It does require mixing in all cases and regardless of solution levels. Up to 10% may dissolve instantly in alcohol; Beyond a 10% solution you will need to mix it into your alcohol and allow it to rest for approximately one hour or more to incorporate the excess.This process will vary based on the circumstances of your alcohol and equipment. Always test under your specific formulation conditions to determine the threshold.

Benefits

• Deep pore exfoliation

• Improves acne-prone and oily skin

• Refines and minimizes pores

• Reduces blackheads and whiteheads

• Calms inflammation and redness

• Helps manage rosacea, dandruff, and callused skin

Formulation Tips

For water-based serums, gels, or toners, pre-dissolve salicylic acid in 1,3-propanediol or alcohol before blending with aqueous ingredients.

If you prefer convenience, explore our ready-to-use 2% Salicylic Acid Solution for effortless incorporation into your skincare formulations.

Applications

• Acne & oily skin treatments

• Clarifying scalp or dandruff care

• Rosacea and redness relief

• Targeted exfoliating products

• Foot & hand care (for calluses, warts, rough skin)

Caution

Salicylic acid is a potent active, and direct application to skin may cause burns. Always dilute before use and perform a patch test. As with all acids, it is important to start at a lower usage rate and let your skin acclimatize to their use. New users may experience mild stinging or redness,  if irritation persists, reduce frequency or discontinue use and seek medical advise.

DO NOT APPLY DIRECTLY TO THE SKIN AS CHEMICAL BURNING MAY RESULT.

IT IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE USER TO RESEARCH AND UNDERSTAND INGREDIENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING OR USING.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture.
Shelf life: Up to 3 years when properly stored.

Disclaimer:

For external use only in cosmetic and personal care formulations. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
At Skin Foodie, we source only premium pharmaceutical and food-grade ingredients,  because purity and grade matter just as much in skincare as they do in nutrition. Lower-cost alternatives may compromise on safety, potency, or efficacy.