salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsa-lə-ˈsi-lik- 

: a crystalline phenolic acid C₇H₆O₃ that is used medicinally especially as a skin exfoliant and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic compare aspirin

Examples of salicylic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Skincare ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, peptides, and salicylic acid also slowly found their way into shampoos, conditioners, exfoliants, tonics, and masks. —Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 26 Mar. 2025

Certain leave-in products might also be too strong and trigger contact dermatitis—an irritated, itchy reaction that Dr. Cameron says can happen when harsh actives (like salicylic acid and tea tree oil) sit on a sensitive scalp for too long. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 25 Mar. 2025

The product works instantly and over time to minimize the appearance of pores for smoother skin texture thanks to ingredients like silica and salicylic acid that absorb excess oil and clear out clogged pores. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 17 Mar. 2025

Plus, a gentle yet effective exfoliant blend of AHA, PHA, and salicylic acid takes care of chapped and flaking skin. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 14 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French salicylique, from salicyle, the group HOC₆H₄CO, from salicine salicin + -yle -yl

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for salicylic acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- 

: a weak acid used especially in the form of salts to relieve pain and fever

Medical Definition

salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- 

: a crystalline phenolic acid C₇H₆O₃ that is the ortho form of hydroxybenzoic acid and is used especially in making pharmaceuticals and dyes, as an antiseptic and disinfectant especially in treating skin diseases, as a keratolytic agent for skin exfoliation, and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic and in the treatment of rheumatism see aspirin