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

Shout out to salicylic acid and diocic acid, which regulate sebum. SkinCeuticals Nighttime Retinol Routine $245 $221 SkinCeuticals SkinCeuticals's Nighttime Retinol Routine is a 1-2 punch for sleepy-looking skin, featuring the ever-moisturizing Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 and Retinol 0.5. —Sarah Han, Allure, 30 Nov. 2024

Plus, it's infused with salicylic acid to combat breakouts and SPF 20 to armor up in the sun. —Alyssa Brascia, People.com, 29 Nov. 2024

The inclusion of salicylic acid makes this a great option for anyone with oily skin too. —Kristin Canning, SELF, 27 Nov. 2024

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, dioic acid How to Use: Apply to clean, dry skin morning and evening. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

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