Mechanism of action
Salicylic acid's lipophilicity lets it concentrate in sebum-rich follicles, where it loosens corneocyte adhesion.
This supports more orderly desquamation and is most often discussed alongside comedonal acne.
Notes
- Common in over-the-counter formulations as 0.5–2%.
- Often used as a complement to other axes rather than a single-solution agent.