Salicylic acid, often called a BHA (beta hydroxy acid), is a skincare and medicine ingredient that loosens dead skin cells and unblocks pores. It is used mainly for acne, especially blackheads and whiteheads, and also for dandruff, thick scaly skin, warts and calluses. Face products usually contain 0.5% to 2%; in Malaysia, cosmetics may contain no more than 2% (3% in shampoos), and they must not be used on children under 3. Start slowly, patch test first, use sun protection, and avoid layering it with other strong acne treatments. The most common side effects are dryness, peeling and stinging.
Ringkasan: Salicylic acid (BHA)
- Salicylic acid ialah bahan yang menanggalkan sel kulit mati dan membuka liang pori yang tersumbat. Ia larut dalam minyak, jadi sesuai untuk kulit berminyak, blackhead dan whitehead.
- Kegunaan lain: syampu kelemumur, kulit tebal bersisik, ketuat dan kapalan (kekuatan lebih tinggi).
- Produk muka biasanya 0.5% hingga 2%. Di Malaysia, kosmetik tidak boleh melebihi 2% (syampu 3%) dan tidak untuk kanak-kanak bawah 3 tahun (NPRA).
- Cara guna: uji di kawasan kecil dahulu, mula 2 hingga 3 kali seminggu, guna pelembap dan pelindung matahari.
- Jangan sapu bersama benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin atau produk pengelupas lain di kawasan yang sama kecuali dinasihatkan doktor.
- Ibu mengandung: produk kekuatan rendah di kawasan kecil disenaraikan sebagai pilihan dalam garis panduan Malaysia, tetapi elak chemical peel salicylic acid.
NPRA; Malaysian acne CPG 2022; MedlinePlus; DermNet; FDA
Apa itu salicylic acid? (What is salicylic acid?)
Salicylic acid belongs to a group of medicines called keratolytics. It works by softening keratin, a protein in the top layer of the skin, which helps loosen dry, scaly skin so it can be removed more easily (DermNet). In acne, it slows the shedding of cells inside the hair follicles so they do not clog, and helps break down blackheads and whiteheads (DermNet).
In skincare, salicylic acid is usually called a BHA (beta hydroxy acid), and it is the BHA most commonly used in cosmetics, although chemists point out it is not technically a true BHA (FDA). Unlike many exfoliants, it is lipophilic (it dissolves in oil), so it can get into comedones and pores to help prevent clogging (Malaysian acne CPG).
Salicylic acid untuk apa? (What it is used for)
Salicylic acid comes in many forms, including cleansers, creams, gels, lotions, ointments, pads, plasters, shampoos and solutions, in strengths from 0.5% up to 30% (DermNet). The strength depends on what it is used for:
| Use | Typical strength and form | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Acne, blackheads and whiteheads | 0.5% to 2% (up to 3%) cleanser, toner, serum, cream or lotion | Most face products are cosmetics; see the Malaysian limits below |
| Dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis | Shampoo, up to 3% in rinse-off hair products | Helps lift scale from the scalp |
| Psoriasis and thick, scaly skin | 2% to 3%, often combined with a steroid | Combination products need a doctor's prescription |
| Warts, verrucas and calluses | 15% to 27% paint, gel or plaster | Never on the face, genitals or moles |
| Chemical peel | 20% to 30% | Done in a clinic by a trained doctor |
Sources: DermNet; MedlinePlus; Malaysian acne CPG 2022; NPRA.
For more on these conditions, see our guides to jerawat (acne), blackhead (komedo), kelemumur (dandruff), psoriasis and ketuat (warts). Pharmacy wart treatments should not be used on warts on the face or genitals, on warts with hair growing from them, or on moles and birthmarks (MedlinePlus).
Salicylic acid untuk jerawat dan blackhead (acne and blackheads)
Salicylic acid is best suited to mild acne with many blackheads and whiteheads (comedones), because it unblocks pores and reduces swelling and redness (MedlinePlus). The evidence:
- Malaysian guideline: the 2022 Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on acne note that a Cochrane review of 18 studies found salicylic acid reduced non-inflammatory, inflammatory and total acne lesions compared with placebo or no treatment, with mild side effects such as redness, burning, peeling and itching. In the Malaysian treatment algorithm, salicylic acid is one of the topical agents that can be combined for moderate acne, while benzoyl peroxide or a topical retinoid is the starting point for mild acne (Malaysian acne CPG).
- Quality of evidence: the Cochrane review itself rated much of the evidence on salicylic acid as low or very low quality (Liu 2020), so salicylic acid is not the strongest acne treatment.
- American guideline: the 2024 American Academy of Dermatology guideline makes a conditional recommendation for salicylic acid, compared with strong recommendations for benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids (Reynolds 2024).
- Salicylic acid cleanser: in a small crossover trial cited by the Malaysian guideline, a 2% salicylic acid cleanser reduced acne lesions within 2 weeks (Malaysian acne CPG).
Clinic peels in Malaysian skin. The Malaysian guideline lists salicylic acid and glycolic acid peels as the preferred chemical peels for acne, used alongside other treatment (Malaysian acne CPG). In a trial at Universiti Putra Malaysia, 36 patients, almost all with skin of colour (Fitzpatrick type IV to V), had a 30% salicylic acid peel on one side of the face and Jessner's solution on the other, every 2 weeks for 3 sessions. Both sides improved in acne and post-acne dark marks, and 85.3% rated the salicylic acid side as good or very good. Burning, stinging and peeling were the common side effects (How 2020). For dark marks left after pimples, see acne scars vs dark spots.
The Malaysian guideline suggests stepping up treatment if acne does not improve after 3 months (Malaysian acne CPG). See a doctor if your acne is deep, painful or scarring; you may need prescription treatment rather than another skincare product.
Peratus salicylic acid dan had di Malaysia (strength and Malaysian limits)
Over-the-counter acne products usually contain 0.5% to 3.0% salicylic acid (Malaysian acne CPG). In Malaysia, cosmetics are controlled by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), which follows the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive. Its Annex III sets these limits for salicylic acid in cosmetics:
| Type of cosmetic product | Maximum salicylic acid |
|---|---|
| Rinse-off hair products (such as shampoo) | 3.0% |
| Most other cosmetics (such as cleansers, toners, serums and face creams) | 2.0% |
| Body lotion, eye shadow, mascara, eyeliner, lipstick, roll-on deodorant and nail polish | 0.5% |
| All cosmetic products | Not for children under 3 years; not in products that may be inhaled or oral products |
Sources: NPRA, Guidelines for Control of Cosmetic Products in Malaysia, Annex III (release 10 June 2026).
Higher strengths, such as wart paints and clinic peels, are not cosmetics. Some salicylic acid products, such as those combined with a steroid, need a doctor's prescription (DermNet). Before buying a cosmetic product, check that it is notified with the NPRA; our guide to spotting fake skin products explains how. A higher percentage is not always better: stronger products are more likely to irritate (DermNet).
Salicylic acid cleanser, toner atau serum? (choosing a product)
| Product type | How it works | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanser or face wash | Short contact, then rinsed off | Beginners, oily or acne-prone skin, daily use |
| Toner or serum | Left on the skin | Stubborn blackheads and whiteheads, if your skin tolerates a cleanser |
| Spot treatment or cream | Applied to small areas | Individual spots or small patches |
| Body wash | Rinsed off | Acne on the chest and back |
| Shampoo | Rinsed off the scalp | Dandruff and scaly scalp |
Sources: MedlinePlus; DermNet.
Choose one salicylic acid product at a time. Using a salicylic acid cleanser, toner and serum together increases the chance of dryness and irritation, and other peeling or drying products should not be used on the same skin unless a doctor advises it (DermNet; MedlinePlus). Look at the active ingredient and percentage on the label rather than the brand.
Cara guna salicylic acid (how to use it safely)
- Patch test first. Apply a small amount to one or two small areas for 3 days. If there is no reaction, use it as directed (MedlinePlus). The FDA also advises testing any BHA product on a small area first.
- Start slowly. Your skin may become dry or irritated at first, so use it less often to begin with, for example every other day, and increase gradually (MedlinePlus).
- Apply only where needed. Do not use it on large areas of the body or cover it with a bandage unless your doctor says so (MedlinePlus).
- Keep it away from the eyes, mouth and inside the nose, and do not apply it to broken, red, swollen, irritated or infected skin (MedlinePlus; DermNet). If it gets into your eyes, rinse with water for 15 minutes.
- Moisturise and use sun protection. The FDA advises using sun protection when you use a BHA product. For help choosing a sunscreen, see our guide to sun protection and pigmentation.
- Do not mix with other strong treatments on the same skin, such as benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, sulphur, resorcinol, alcohol-based products, abrasive scrubs or other peeling products, unless a doctor advises it (MedlinePlus; DermNet). Many dermatologists separate actives, for example salicylic acid in the morning and a retinoid at night (Cleveland Clinic).
- Be patient. It may take several weeks to see the full benefit, and acne can look worse in the first few days (MedlinePlus).
Salicylic acid vs AHA (glycolic acid)
Salicylic acid and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid are both chemical exfoliants, but they behave differently:
| Salicylic acid (BHA) | Glycolic acid (AHA) | |
|---|---|---|
| Main feature | Dissolves in oil, so it can get into comedones and pores | Used widely in anti-ageing cosmetics |
| Often chosen for | Oily skin, blackheads, whiteheads, acne | Fine lines and rough skin texture |
| Clinic peels for acne | A preferred choice in the Malaysian guideline | A preferred choice in the Malaysian guideline |
| Sun sensitivity | Use sun protection (FDA) | Shown to increase sun damage; use sun protection (FDA) |
Sources: Malaysian acne CPG 2022; FDA.
Studies funded by the US government found that glycolic acid can make the skin more susceptible to sun damage, including sunburn, and the FDA advises sun protection with both AHA and BHA products (FDA). Using an AHA and a BHA on the same skin at the same time increases the risk of irritation.
Kesan sampingan salicylic acid (side effects)
Salicylic acid is usually well tolerated (DermNet). Common, usually mild side effects include:
- dryness and peeling;
- redness, stinging or burning, especially on broken skin or with stronger products;
- itching.
Sources: Malaysian acne CPG 2022; MedlinePlus; DermNet.
Stop using it and call a doctor if you have confusion, dizziness, extreme tiredness or weakness, headache, fast breathing, ringing or buzzing in the ears, hearing loss or nausea. These can be signs of salicylic acid poisoning, which is rare and more likely with strong products, large areas or overuse (MedlinePlus; DermNet).
Get emergency help (call 999) for signs of a serious allergic reaction: hives, itching, throat tightness, difficulty breathing, feeling faint, or swelling of the eyes, face, lips or tongue (MedlinePlus). True allergy is rare, but serious reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported (DermNet).
Salicylic acid semasa mengandung dan menyusu (pregnancy and breastfeeding)
- Topical salicylic acid: Malaysia's acne guideline lists topical salicylic acid among the treatment options for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and rates it as safe to use during breastfeeding (Malaysian acne CPG). A review from the National Skin Centre in Singapore lists topical salicylic acid among first-line topical options for acne in pregnant and breastfeeding women (Kong 2013), and a 2024 review also covers its use in pregnancy (Rau 2024).
- Salicylic acid peels: the strong clinic version should be avoided or used with caution in pregnancy (Malaysian acne CPG).
- Use small amounts: salicylic acid can be absorbed through the skin, so discuss it with your doctor (DermNet). In practice, choose a low-strength product, use it on small areas only, and avoid large areas, high-strength wart treatments and peels unless your doctor agrees.
- Avoid retinoids: topical retinoids such as tretinoin and adapalene should be avoided in pregnancy (Malaysian acne CPG); see our blackhead guide for other pregnancy-safe options.
Siapa perlu berhati-hati (who should take care)
- Babies and young children: cosmetics with salicylic acid must not be used for children under 3 (NPRA), and the FDA advises avoiding BHA products on infants and children. DermNet says salicylic acid preparations should not normally be used under age 2, as children absorb more through the skin.
- Children and teenagers with flu or chickenpox should not use topical salicylic acid unless a doctor says so, because of the risk of Reye's syndrome (MedlinePlus).
- People with diabetes, or blood vessel, kidney or liver disease should tell their doctor before using it (MedlinePlus).
- People taking aspirin or using muscle rubs with methyl salicylate should tell their doctor or pharmacist, as these can interact (MedlinePlus).
- Sensitive or very dry skin, eczema or rosacea: salicylic acid can irritate healthy skin (DermNet), so start with a rinse-off product and ask a pharmacist or dermatologist. See also our guide to kulit kering (dry skin).
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Salicylic acid untuk apa (what is salicylic acid used for)?
Salicylic acid is used mainly for acne, especially blackheads and whiteheads, because it loosens dead skin cells and unblocks pores. It is also used in shampoos for dandruff, in stronger products for thick scaly skin such as psoriasis and calluses, in wart paints and plasters, and in clinic chemical peels (DermNet; MedlinePlus; Malaysian acne CPG).
Apa fungsi salicylic acid pada kulit muka?
On the face, salicylic acid works as a gentle chemical exfoliant. It softens keratin, the protein in the top layer of skin, and slows the shedding of cells inside the pores so they do not clog. Because it dissolves in oil, it can get into oily pores, which is why it helps blackheads and whiteheads (DermNet; Malaysian acne CPG).
Berapa peratus salicylic acid yang sesuai?
Acne products usually contain 0.5% to 2%, sometimes up to 3% (Malaysian acne CPG). In Malaysia, cosmetics may contain up to 2% (3% in rinse-off hair products, and 0.5% in body lotions and some make-up). Stronger products, such as 15% to 27% wart treatments and 20% to 30% clinic peels, are not everyday skincare (NPRA; DermNet).
Boleh guna salicylic acid setiap hari?
Many people can use a salicylic acid cleanser once a day. Start less often, such as every other day, and increase slowly if your skin is not dry or irritated; cut back if it becomes dry, red or stings (MedlinePlus). Always follow the product label.
Salicylic acid cleanser atau serum, mana lebih baik?
A cleanser is rinsed off after a short time, so it is usually gentler and suits beginners and oily skin. A leave-on toner, serum or cream stays on the skin longer, so it may work more strongly but is also more likely to dry or irritate. Use one salicylic acid product at a time rather than several (MedlinePlus; DermNet).
Kenapa jerawat naik lepas guna salicylic acid?
Your skin may look worse in the first few days as it adjusts, and dryness or irritation is common at the start (MedlinePlus). It can take several weeks to see the full benefit. If you get severe redness, burning, swelling or a rash, stop using it and see a doctor or pharmacist.
Boleh guna salicylic acid dengan niacinamide atau retinol?
Salicylic acid should not be applied to the same skin as other strong acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, sulphur or other peeling products, unless a doctor advises it, because the skin can become very irritated (MedlinePlus; DermNet). Many dermatologists split them, for example salicylic acid in the morning and a retinoid at night (Cleveland Clinic). Ask a pharmacist about your specific products.
Salicylic acid selamat untuk ibu mengandung?
Malaysia's acne guideline lists topical salicylic acid as an option for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but says salicylic acid chemical peels should be avoided or used with caution (Malaysian acne CPG). Because salicylic acid can be absorbed through the skin, use low-strength products on small areas only and tell your doctor (DermNet).
Apa kesan sampingan salicylic acid?
Common side effects are dryness, peeling, redness, stinging, burning and itching, which are usually mild (Malaysian acne CPG; MedlinePlus). Rarely, using strong products over large areas can cause salicylic acid poisoning, with symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, headache, fast breathing and ringing in the ears. Allergic reactions are rare but can be serious (DermNet; MedlinePlus).
Apa beza salicylic acid (BHA) dan AHA (glycolic acid)?
Both are chemical exfoliants. Salicylic acid, usually called a BHA, dissolves in oil and can get into pores, so it suits oily, acne-prone skin and blackheads (Malaysian acne CPG). Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid are widely used in cosmetics aimed at signs of ageing; studies found glycolic acid can make skin more sensitive to sun damage, so sun protection matters with both (FDA).
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from a doctor, dermatologist or pharmacist. Follow the directions on your product label, and ask a healthcare professional before using salicylic acid if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a medical condition.
References
- Guidelines for Control of Cosmetic Products in Malaysia, Annex III (release 10 June 2026) — National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA)
- Clinical Practice Guidelines: Management of Acne Vulgaris (Second Edition) — Ministry of Health Malaysia (MaHTAS)
- Salicylic acid — DermNet
- Salicylic Acid Topical — MedlinePlus Drug Information
- Beta Hydroxy Acids in Cosmetics — US Food and Drug Administration
- How to Get Rid of Blackheads — Cleveland Clinic
- Reynolds RV, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024;90(5):1006.e1-1006.e30.
- Liu H, et al. Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;5(5):CD011368.
- How KN, et al. Efficacy and safety of Jessner's solution peel in comparison with salicylic acid 30% peel in the management of patients with acne vulgaris and postacne hyperpigmentation with skin of color. Int J Dermatol. 2020;59(7):804-812.
- Kong YL, Tey HL. Treatment of acne vulgaris during pregnancy and lactation. Drugs. 2013;73(8):779-87.
- Rau A, et al. Management of acne in pregnancy. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2024;25(3):465-471.
