Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brands, Allure editorsSave this storySave this story
Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) lauded for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties, has long been the MVP of breakout control, but today’s best salicylic acid serums go well beyond zapping zits. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn blackheads, hormonal breakouts, post-acne discoloration, uneven skin texture, or the kind of congestion that shows up right before a big event (rude), there’s a salicylic acid serum designed to meet your skin right where it is. We’re talking everything from lightweight, water-based options that are hydrating and calming enough for sensitive skin, to exfoliating formulas that smooth bumpiness but also soothe potential irritation.
Our Top Salicylic Acid Serums
- Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment, $45
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $37
- Best for Large Pores: Caudalie Vinopure Salicylic Acid Serum, $49
- Best for Oily Skin: Skinceuticals Silymarin CF, $185
- Best for Dry Skin: Laneige Water Bank Aqua Facial, $36
- Best for Overnight: Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatments, $6
- Best for Mature Skin: Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads, $28
- Best Spot Treatment: Aprilskin Carrotene IPMP Clearing Solution, $19
- Best for Inflamed Acne: Typology Targeted Blemish Serum, $41
- Best Budget: The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum, $11
Ahead, we’ve rounded up editor- and dermatologist-loved picks that actually deliver results—and play nicely with the rest of your routine. Keep scrolling to find the one that’ll make those clogged pores a thing of the past.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What other ingredients should you look for in salicylic acid serums?
- What concentration of salicylic acid should you look for?
- Who should use salicylic acid serums?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Save to wishlist
La Roche-Posay
Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the La Roche Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Why it’s worth it: Time and time again, La Roche-Posay strikes the ideal balance between performance and price. The Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment combines 1.5% salicylic acid with glycolic acid, lipohydroxy acid, and niacinamide to unclog pores, speed up cell turnover, and fade discoloration—all in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula. Plus, the brand’s signature thermal spring water—packed with minerals and antioxidants—soothes skin from the first drop.
Mamina Turegano, MD, a triple board-certified dermatologist in New Orleans, recommends Effaclar for combination or mature skin, while Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, adds that it's great for sensitive or acne-prone skin, thanks to calming niacinamide. Simply put, this serum works for a wide range of skin types, making it an all-in-one formula that anyone can reach for if they’re looking to achieve smoother, brighter skin.
Wohlner before applying the La Roche Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Wohlner after applying the La Roche Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner
LargeChevron
“I usually rely on exfoliating pads or at-home peels to get my acne-prone skin looking like glass, but ever since I added this serum to my nightly routine, I barely touch those steps anymore. It keeps the oily top layer in check so my skin always looks clean and clear, while still staying soft and supple—perfect for makeup that goes on smooth and flawless.”—Lily Wohlner, commerce writer
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: salicylic acid (1.5%), glycolic acid, lipohydroxy acid, niacinamide, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
- Who it's for: combination skin, mature skin, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Save to wishlist
Paula’s Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Amazon
Dermstore
Sephora
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Deanna Pai
Why it’s worth it: Paula’s Choice made its name on research-backed, no-nonsense formulas, and the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is arguably its most iconic product. (Our readers would agree, since they awarded it a 2025 Readers’ Choice Award.) This fluid toner harnesses 2% salicylic acid to dive deep into pores, dissolving excess oil, dead skin, and buildup that can cause breakouts. At the same time, it helps fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars—all without over-drying or irritating skin.
Dermatologists love it, too. Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology in Toronto, calls it “well tolerated by nearly all skin types, easy to incorporate into a routine, and very effective," making it one of the rare viral products she actually recommends. Soothing green tea leaf extract calms redness, while moisturizing butylene glycol leaves skin feeling dewier and smoother. If you have super-sensitive skin, opt for the Paula’s Choice 1% BHA Sensitive Skin Exfoliant, which has a lower percentage of salicylic acid and the addition of allantoin to calm irritated skin.
Pai before applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Pai after three weeks of applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
LargeChevron
"I haven't used toner in ages, but when faced with pretty rough hormonal acne on my chin and jaw, I reached for this. I alternated it at night with Shani Darden Rescue Serum With 10% Azelaic Complex right after cleansing, and just smoothed it into my skin; it absorbed quickly without any need for a cotton pad. I've found that this seems to be my magic combo for controlling breakouts. And when the occasional cystic zit did pop up, it didn't get as red or as big as it typically might have. I'm happy to report that it lives up to the hype." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: 2% BHA, green tea
- Who it’s for: all skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Large Pores: Caudalie Vinopure Salicylic Acid Serum
Save to wishlist
Caudalie
Vinopure Salicylic Acid Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Sephora
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Caudalie Vinopure Salicylic Acid Serum
Alessandra Foresto
Why it’s worth it: A 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner, Caudalie proves that acne care can feel just as indulgent—cue six different essential oils for spa-like vibes—as it is effective. The Vinopure Acne Serum pairs salicylic acid (sourced from wintergreen leaves) and polyhydroxy acid with the brand’s signature grape-powered antioxidants (sourced from Caudalie’s own vineyards in the South of France) to help clear congestion, as well as smooth and soften skin. If you’re sensitive to fragrance, you might want to skip this formula, since essential oils can be potential irritants for some people.
Foresto before applying the Caudalie Vinopure Salicylic Acid Serum
Alessandra Foresto
Foresto after applying the Caudalie Vinopure Salicylic Acid Serum
Alessandra Foresto
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
LargeChevron
“I've been blessed by the skin gods in having both super dry skin and eczema, and a T-zone that loves to develop the occasional persistent acne spot. This Best of Beauty Award-winning serum is gentle enough to keep the areas on my face that need a little exfoliation bump free, while not drying my skin into eczema breakouts. Most importantly though (because there's no way I'd consistently use a product if this is not the case), it doesn't smell like chemicals at all.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: 1.5% BHA and PHA complex, palmitoyl grapeseed extract
- Who it’s for: those with large pores and congestion
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Oily Skin: Skinceuticals Silymarin CF
Save to wishlist
SkinCeuticals
Silymarin CF
SkinCeuticals
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Pai applying SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF
Deanna Pai
Why it’s worth it: SkinCeuticals serums have long been editor-favorites for oily and acne-prone skin, and Silymarin CF is no exception. This antioxidant-rich formula pairs vitamin C with ferulic acid to brighten skin, refine texture, and even out tone. Antioxidant refresher: Ferulic acid helps stabilize vitamin C, boosting the effectiveness of both ingredients. Another standout, silymarin (which is extracted from milk thistle, a plant related to daisies and ragweeds), helps prevent oil oxidation—the culprit behind clogged pores and early signs of aging—while salicylic acid delivers gentle, pore-clearing exfoliation for a clearer complexion over time.
Dr. Turegano is a fan of the SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense, a more targeted acne treatment that can work well alongside Silymarin CF if you’re dealing with active breakouts. The formula pairs a higher 1.5% concentration of salicylic acid with lipohydroxy acid to help clear skin, while dioic acid, glycolic acid, and citric acid refine texture.
Tester feedback from Pai
LargeChevron
"My two primary concerns (in beauty, in life) are acne and aging, which is why I swear by SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF. I've tried other vitamin C serums, including the much-loved C E Ferulic, but this is the only one that actually kept my breakouts under control—while giving me the collagen-boosting, dark spot-fading perks of vitamin C." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (15%), silymarin (0.5%), ferulic acid (0.5%), salicylic acid (0.5%)
- Who it’s for: anyone who struggles with acne and dark spots
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Laneige Water Bank Aqua Facial
Save to wishlist
Laneige
Water Bank Aqua Facial
Sephora
Kohl's
Allure commerce editor Han applying the Laneige Water Bank Aqua Facial
Why it’s worth it: Salicylic acid isn’t just for oily skin—Laneige’s Water Bank Aqua Facial proves it can work beautifully for dry skin, too. Inspired by Korean aqua peel facials, this lightweight serum gently exfoliates while flooding skin with hydration, thanks to a lineup of K-beauty favorites. Alongside alpha, beta, and polyhydroxy acids that encourage cell renewal at different levels of penetration, it features the brand’s patented Hydro Infusion Shot, a concentrated blend of hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, PDRN, and hyaluronic ceramide to replenish hydration and support barrier repair.
The result of two drops to both cheeks and forehead each? That coveted post-facial, glass-skin glow—without dryness or tightness. Use morning and night after cleansing and toning, and don’t forget sunscreen during the day (ever!).
Han before applying the Laneige Water Bank Aqua Facial
Han after applying the Laneige Water Bank Aqua Facial
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
LargeChevron
“Despite having combo, non-sensitive skin, I’ve never been one to incorporate BHA (or AHA) serums in my usual skin-care routine. I’m simply wary of how harsh they can be—and have been, based on experience. However! Despite clocking in at a 7.7% concentration of exfoliating acids, the Water Bank Aqua Facial doesn’t cause any irritation, which signals to me an elegant formula that knows what ingredients it needs to maintain barrier health and replenish hydration. (I’m looking at you, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, PDRN, and more.) Of course, consistency is key, but most mornings after application, my blackheads look less apparent and my skin looks overall brighter and glassier.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: 7.7% acid complex (PHA, AHA, and BHA), PDRN, hyaluronic ceramides
- Who it’s for: dry skin, all skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Mature Skin: Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Save to wishlist
Innisfree
Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Amazon
Sephora
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it’s worth it: Innisfree’s Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads are a dream for those targeting redness without irritation. These pre-soaked pads pair pore-clearing salicylic acid with a gentle dose of texture-refining retinol, while cica and green tea ceramide from Korea’s mineral-rich Jeju Island soothe and calm skin. “These toner pads are not only convenient, but they’re always popular because they say it gives people such a clean-skin feel,” Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, told Allure. TL;DR: It’s a one-step shortcut to balanced, calm, and refreshed skin.
Lee before applying Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
LargeChevron
“I’ve been a fan of Innisfree’s Green Tea Enzyme Vitamin C Toner Pads for a while—they’re gentle yet brightening, and pair perfectly with my morning SPF routine. The K-beauty brand is well known for its sensitive skin-friendly formulas, so I knew the Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads wouldn't freak out my skin. These retinol pads were (believe it or not) my first foray into retinol, and after two weeks of nightly use, I noticed my skin texture start to smooth out. Even though I don’t deal with breakouts, the combo of gentle retinol and salicylic acid made a visible difference in softer, more even skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: retinol, salicylic acid, green tea, cica, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
- Who it’s for: those with uneven texture, acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Overnight: Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatments
Save to wishlist
Good Molecules
Overnight Exfoliating Treatments
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Work smarter, not harder. Good Molecules’ Overnight Exfoliating Treatment works while you sleep, combining 9.2% alpha and beta hydroxy acids to resurface texture and unclog pores in a single step. Glycolic and lactic acids sweep away dead surface skin cells, soften rough patches, and brighten your complexion, while salicylic acid penetrates more deeply to clear congestion. Gentle enough to use up to three nights a week, it’s a low-effort way to wake up to refined, radiant skin. If you have super sensitive skin, it’s best to start with this serum once per week and build up based on how your skin tolerates it.
Allure contributor Jailynn Taylor applying the Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Face Treatment
Jailynn Taylor
Taylor after applying the Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Face Treatment
Jailynn Taylor
Tester feedback from contributor Jailynn Taylor
LargeChevron
“I wrecked my skin barrier by over-exfoliating and not wearing enough sunscreen a few years ago (I know, I know), so I had to overhaul my routine. Now I do most of my exfoliating at night twice a week, and Good Molecules’ Overnight Exfoliating Face Treatment has been the standout. My skin is baby-soft by morning, and my makeup glides on like butter because the surface is so smooth.” —Jailynn Taylor, contributor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: glycolic acid (8.1%), lactic acid (1%), salicylic acid (0.1%)
- Who it’s for: all skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Spot Treatment: Aprilskin Carrotene IPMP Clearing Solution
Save to wishlist
Aprilskin
Carrotene IPMP Clearing Solution
Amazon
Stylevana
Why it’s worth it: The 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning Aprilskin Carrotene IPMP Clearing Solution goes beyond standard spot treatments, pairing exfoliation from salicylic and polyhydroxy acids with ingredients like niacinamide, which helps soothe irritation and fade post-acne marks. Apply it to inflamed spots overnight, and you’ll wake up to calmer, clearer skin that's ready to face the day. And no, this solution doesn’t cause dry, flaky patches, so you don’t have to worry about looking crusty, for lack of a better word, under your makeup.
Tester feedback from senior manager of analytics and audience development Monica Perry
LargeChevron
“It's one of those rare overnight acne treatments that actually works. I had a red, medium-size zit on my cheek, and 12 hours later, the redness and swelling subsided. It was like 90% gone. It's that K-beauty magic.” —Monica Perry, senior manager of analytics and audience development
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: 2% BHA + PHA, 1% zinc oxide, 5% niacinamide
- Who it’s for: those with active acne spots
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Inflamed Acne: Typology Targeted Blemish Serum
Save to wishlist
Typology
Targeted Blemish Serum
Typology
Why it’s worth it: Think of Typology’s Targeted Blemish Serum as a spot treatment that you can apply directly to breakouts when they pop up. It uses antibacterial, oil-balancing actives like 2% salicylic acid to exfoliate, clear away dead skin, and help keep pores clean, plus 1% beetroot-derived zinc to rein in excess oil (especially helpful for oily skin types), calm inflamed pimples, and help even out skin. Don’t be afraid of the gel-like texture—once you apply it to your skin, it soaks right in and looks totally invisible.
Tester feedback from associate visuals editor Giancarlos Kunhardt
LargeChevron
“This serum is an excellent spot treatment that also helps prevent pimples. The simple, clean formula is great for my sensitive skin, and a little goes a long way, with favorable results overnight.”—Giancarlos Kunhardt, associate visuals editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, 1% zinc
- Who it’s for: those with active acne
- Fragrance-free: yes
Most Affordable: The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum
Save to wishlist
The Inkey List
Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum
Ulta Beauty
Sephora
Why it’s worth it: For a more budget-friendly option, Dr. Bowles recommends The Inkey List’s Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum. The formula contains 2% salicylic acid to help unclog pores and reduce excess oil, balanced with 1% hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated and comfortable. Its ultra-lightweight texture sinks in quickly with no stickiness, and just a couple of drops patted into the skin is enough to target blemishes, blackheads, and congestion across all skin types.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, 1% hyaluronic acid
- Who it’s for: all skin types, including sensitive
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should use salicylic acid serums?
Salicylic acid serums are especially beneficial for people with oily, acne-prone, or combination skin, as well as those struggling with blackheads, clogged pores, or breakouts along the T-zone, says Dr. Bowles. “Because salicylic acid is oil-soluble, it penetrates deep into pores, making it ideal for congestion-related acne.” While some patients with sensitive skin can tolerate salicylic acid, they should start with low concentrations (like 0.5%) and slowly incorporate the active into their routine, as well as choose formulations with soothing ingredients (hi, green tea). “It may not be the best choice for very dry, eczema-prone, or compromised skin barriers unless guided by a dermatologist,” Dr. Bowles warns.
What concentration of salicylic acid should you look for?
Dr. Bowles says most over-the-counter salicylic acid products are formulated between 0.5% and 2%, with 2% being the maximum allowed in the US. “For many people, 2% is effective and well-tolerated, but higher percentages don’t necessarily mean better results,” she explains. The vehicle of the product, whether it’s a serum, toner, or cleanser, often matters just as much as the percentage. “Using the right formulation at the right frequency is more important than chasing higher numbers,” she says. In fact, lower concentrations can work better for sensitive or dry skin types when used consistently.
What other ingredients should you look for in salicylic acid serums?
Dr. Bowles always encourages her patients to look for ingredients that reduce irritation and strengthen the skin barrier. For example, “niacinamide helps calm redness and regulate oil production, making it a great pairing with salicylic acid,” she says. “Ceramides and panthenol support barrier repair, which is especially important if you’re using exfoliating acids regularly, and antioxidants like green tea extract can also help soothe inflammation and protect the skin.” Look for hyaluronic acid and glycerin as well to draw in moisture.
Meet the experts
- Mamina Turegano, MD, is a triple board-certified dermatologist in New Orleans.
- Alexandra Bowles, DO, is a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati.
- Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami.
- Geeta Yadav, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Facet Dermatology in Toronto.
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
For our review of the best lip and cheek tints, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and professional makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product’s performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
