• Effective keratolytic (exfoliates dead skin cells)
• Clears clogged pores and reduces acne
• Used in anti-dandruff and scalp treatment formulas
• Ideal for peels, toners, cleansers, and serums
• Soluble in alcohols and glycol solvents

Salicylic Acid Powder – BHA Exfoliant for Acne & Dandruff Control

Salicylic Acid Powder is a high-performance Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) widely used in skincare and haircare formulations for its deep exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. Unlike AHAs, it is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate pores to dissolve sebum and debris—making it an excellent ingredient for treating acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. In hair care, it's used to combat dandruff and flaky scalp. It is also incorporated into peels, masks, toners, and exfoliating cleansers.

INCI Name: Salicylic Acid

CAS Number: 69-72-7

Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and propylene glycol

Add Phase: Dissolve in alcohol/glycol phase before adding to water-based systems

pH Stability: Best under 4.0

Processing Temperature: < 60°C

Appearance: White crystalline powder

Odor: Slight characteristic

Molecular Formula: C₇H₆O₃

Molecular Weight: 138.12 g/mol

Flash Point: 157°C

Density: ~1.44 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Beta Hydroxy Acid

Functional Groups: Phenol, Carboxylic Acid

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Anti-acne, exfoliation, anti-dandruff, keratolytic

• Usage Rate: 0.5–2% in leave-on products, up to 3% in rinse-off formulas
• Recommended Additions: Alcohol, Glycol, Preservatives, pH adjusters
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in a tightly closed container

Salicylic acid works best when pH is adjusted below 4. Combine with Glycolic Acid or Niacinamide for a powerful anti-acne formulation. Avoid use in products meant for sensitive skin or infants.

✔️ Oily

✔️ Acne-Prone

✔️ Combination

❌ Not suitable for sensitive or broken skin

1. Anti-Acne Toner

1% Salicylic Acid

4% Propylene Glycol

0.5% Allantoin

0.5% Preservative

94% Distilled Water (adjust pH to ~3.5)

2. Scalp Dandruff Serum

2% Salicylic Acid

3% Menthol

5% Aloe Vera Extract

0.5% Preservative

q.s. Ethanol or Glycol base

Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Toners
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Deodorants
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Eye Creams
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Soaps
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Body Butters
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜

Q1: Is Salicylic Acid suitable for sensitive skin?

It may cause irritation. Use at lower concentrations or avoid if your skin is highly sensitive.

Q2: Can it be mixed with water directly?

No, it must be pre-dissolved in alcohol or glycols before adding to water-based products.

Q3: What is its shelf life?

Typically 2 years when stored properly.