For acne is it safe to use a 2% salicylic acid gel every night?

Dr. Irwin
February 16, 2015
Is it safe to use a 2% salicylic acid gel every night? I use it to help with breakouts and redness. I'm 32 and fair complected.

In general, unless you are allergic to it……..yes.    Originally salicylic acid was derived from the bark of the white willow tree and it has been used for hundreds of years by Native Americans and even european chemists in the 1800s and 1900s.    Now, it’s usually synthesized in a lab.

It is effective in the treatment of acne mostly because it helps to dissolve and prevent comedones (the plugs in pores).   It’s also used in peels (it’s a beta hydroxy acid) and is sometimes added to “anti-aging” products.   Two great salicyclic acid based products – a wash and treatment pads.

It can cause irritation if used to much, or in combination with other skincare products that may also be irritating.   Never use it on open or irritated skin.

Hope this helps,  Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!
Browse Shop