active

Salicylic Acid

INCI: SALICYLIC ACID
CAS None EC 200-712-3
A BHA that exfoliates and unclogs pores.
Limited Data
Insufficient safety data available. Consider enriching this ingredient.
Details

Description

A BHA that exfoliates and unclogs pores.

Purpose

Function

Insufficient DataExfoliatingAcne fightingPore Minimizing
Profile

Properties

Vegan
Yes
Silicone
Silicone free
Origin
Synthetic
Malassezia
Safe
Fungal Acne
Safe
Reef Safe
Yes
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
GOOD
US
Permitted
EU Max Concentration2.0% general cosmetics (non-leave-on); 3.0% rinse-off hair products; 0.5% body lotion, eye shadow, mascara, eyeliner, lipstick, non-spray deodorant. Not for use in products for children under 3 years (except shampoo). Not for oral products or inhalation products. pH ≥3.5 required.
Absorptionmoderate
Sensitizationlow
MoSnot established
NOAEL75 mg/kg
ConcernLow
Verdict

Good safety profile with established use in cosmetics; generally considered safe at appropriate concentrations.

US Note

FDA OTC Monograph M006: 0.5–2.0% GRASE for topical acne drug products. Classified as an OTC drug (not cosmetic) when acne disease claims are made — requires drug labelling, GMP, NDC number. When marketed for exfoliation only without acne claims, may remain cosmetic. FDA scrutinises intended use classification carefully.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic0/5
LowHigh
Irritancy1/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

CAS Number
None
EC Number
200-712-3
INCI
SALICYLIC ACID
Category
active
Updated
Apr 2, 2026