At a glance
- CAS number
- 69-72-7
- INCI name
- Salicylic Acid
- Function
- active, preservative, exfoliant, keratolytic, anti-acne, antimicrobial
- Typical use level
- 0.1%–2%
- Solubility
- both
- Stable pH
- 3–4
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
salicylic acid 2-Hydroxybenzoic acid o-hydroxybenzoic acid 2-Carboxyphenol o-Carboxyphenol Retarder W Rutranex Salonil Keralyt Duoplant Freezone Saligel
Compatibility
Works well with:
Niacinamide Glycerin Hyaluronic Acid Zinc PCA Tea Tree Oil Panthenol Allantoin Butylene Glycol Propylene Glycol
Use caution with:
L-Ascorbic Acid Benzoyl Peroxide Retinol AHA Acids Oxidizing Agents Iron Salts Lead Acetate Iodides
Salicylic acid is most effective at pH 3.0–4.0; raising pH above ~4.5 significantly reduces its bioavailability and exfoliant efficacy. Combining with other acids (AHAs, ascorbic acid) or retinol can cause over-exfoliation, irritation, and formulation instability. Benzoyl peroxide may cause oxidative degradation and increased skin sensitization risk when used in the same leave-on formula.
Formulation notes
EU Cosmetics Regulation limits salicylic acid to 2.0% in rinse-off products and 0.5% in leave-on products (except around eyes); not permitted in products for children under 3 except shampoos. In the US (OTC drug), up to 2% is permitted for acne treatment. Avoid in formulations intended for pregnant women or young children. Solubility in water is limited (~2 mg/mL at 20°C); ethanol or propylene glycol aids dissolution.
Frequently asked questions
What is Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid is a active, preservative, exfoliant, keratolytic, anti-acne, antimicrobial used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.1%–2%. It is both-soluble. Stable in the pH 3–4 range.
What is Salicylic Acid used for?
Salicylic Acid is used as active, preservative, exfoliant, keratolytic, anti-acne, antimicrobial in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid is typically used at 0.1%–2% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Salicylic Acid?
The CAS registry number for Salicylic Acid is 69-72-7. Its INCI name is Salicylic Acid.
At what pH is Salicylic Acid stable?
Salicylic Acid is generally stable in the pH 3–4 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid works well with Niacinamide, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Zinc PCA, Tea Tree Oil, Panthenol, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol. Use caution when combining it with L-Ascorbic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Retinol, AHA Acids, Oxidizing Agents, Iron Salts, Lead Acetate, Iodides.
Related ingredients
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- Capryloyl Salicylic AcidExfoliant
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