10 Best Products With Salicylic Acid in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
In this article, we will be introducing the latest addition to your skincare routine and the most recent buzzed-about ingredient: salicylic acid. It has been widely regarded as something of a holy grail for those with acne problems or oily skin. But is it really a miracle cure in a bottle?
Salicylic acid is typically used to reduce blackheads, prevent breakouts, and minimize pores — ideal for those with oily skin and acne-prone skin types. To help you choose a product, we've included our top picks that you can try out. We've also prepared a guide, with the guidance of dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison, to acquaint you with the details of salicylic acid.
Quick List - Top Products With Salicylic Acid
Klued
Effectively Tackles Breakouts and Impurities While Hydrating Skin
Dermorepubliq
An Affordable, Locally-Made Toner With Exfoliating Properties
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Benefits of Salicylic Acid
- 10 Best Products With Salicylic Acid to Buy Online
- No. 1Oxecure | Acne Clear Powder Mud
- No. 2COSRX | Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
- No. 3Klued | 2% Salicylic Acid Gentle Cleanser
- No. 4Dermorepubliq | 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Deep Pore Care Toner
- No. 5Barenbliss | Pimple Warrior! Salicylic Acid Acne Drying Lotion
- 5 more products
- How to Use Salicylic Acid?
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
- Can Salicylic Acid Remove Acne Scars?
- Can Salicylic Acid Remove Warts?
- Can Salicylic Acid Cause Purging?
- Got Acne-Prone Skin? Here Are Some More Products You Can Check Out
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Benefits of Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a type of BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acid and has the ability to penetrate deep into the skin and dissolve dead skin cells and sebum from your pores. This makes it ideal in reducing blackheads and whiteheads as well as eliminating acne and blemishes due to its anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties.
It is typically used to reduce blackheads, prevent breakouts, and minimize pores; therefore, it is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types. For this reason, those with dry or sensitive skin should try to avoid using it as it could potentially strip their skin of moisture. Pregnant and lactating women should also avoid using salicylic acid as it is considered a blood thinner.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that occurs as a natural compound in plants. It has direct activity as an anti-inflammatory agent and can act as a topical antibacterial agent due to its ability to promote exfoliation. It is oil soluble, so it is ideal to use for oily skin types as a mild exfoliant.
How to Choose Products with Salicylic Acid - Buying Guide
When selecting a skincare product tailored to your specific skin concerns, it's essential to pay attention to the percentage of salicylic acid it contains. Whether you're dealing with acne, clogged pores, or other skin issues, a thoughtful selection process ensures you get the most suitable product for your needs, promoting a healthier, clearer complexion.
Select the Product Depending on Your Skin Concern
Just because salicylic acid is noted to be beneficial for unclogging your pores and removing deep-seated dirt, does not mean you should just slather it all over. Take note of your skin concern and then choose which product you would most benefit from.
Cleanser for Prevention of Acne
If you want a product that you can apply all over your face then facial wash is ideal, as it can cover a lot of surface area and is useful in preventing acne. The inclusion of salicylic acid as an ingredient also ensures it cleans your pores and decongests your skin.
This is ideal if you want to remove all the built-up dirt and grime from your skin that has accumulated during the day without the use of harsh scrubbing. If you’re not yet sure about incorporating salicylic acid in your skin care routine, start with cleansers, as the concentration is not that potent and you can wash it off.
Cleansers containing salicylic acid are ideal for those with acne because they have low concentrations of salicylic acid and are washed off immediately, thus minimizing skin irritation. They are also ideal for hard to reach areas like the back for those who have truncal acne ("bacne").
Regulate Your Skin With a Toner
A toner’s purpose is often misconstrued; there have been thoughts that it should be harsh and abrasive to really get the gunk out of your skin. If it isn’t tingling, it isn’t working is a common theme, but all it does is irritate your skin, dry it out, and make you more prone to breakouts.
Toner is ideal for removing excess sebum, controlling oil production and regulating your skin’s pH balance. Salicylic acid in toner is also good for preventing minor pimples from forming; think of it as a preventive measure to ensure you don’t get breakouts.
Toners containing salicylic acid are useful as mild chemical exfoliants. They can also lessen the excess sebum production and minimize the appearance of pores. Take note that these exfoliating toners are not meant to be used on a daily basis because too frequent usage can damage your skin barrier and lead to increased redness, scaling, or irritation.
Use a Spot Treatment to Speed Up the Healing Process of the Acne
Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory and drying properties, which can speed up the healing process for acne and blemishes as it exfoliates your skin and promotes new cells. This is ideal if you have the occasional mild acne popping up every now and then.
Instead of picking at it, treat it with salicylic acid instead. It will remove your skin’s redness and dry it in about a day or two.
Salicylic acid can also be used as a spot treatment for acne but only for short-term use since there are other topical anti-acne medications that are more effective. It's best to consult your board-certified dermatologist for individualized management of your acne.
Shampoo for Your Scalp Concerns
Did you know that salicylic acid can be used to treat scalp concerns? As previously mentioned, salicylic acid can exfoliate dead skin cells and it does this by dissolving the layer of keratin and regulates skin cells.
This makes it useful for treating scalp conditions such dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, which is characterized by inflamed skin with a flaky and itchy scalp.
Salicylic acid in shampoo is also useful for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Dandruff responds to more frequent shampooing or a longer period of lathering. Shampoos may be used on the scalp, beard, and chest for cases of seborrheic dermatitis.
Get Rid of Bumps With Body Lotion
If you have problem skin, you can use lotion infused with salicylic acid. This helps you soften rough bumps in your skin such as your elbows and knees. This is also an effective mild exfoliator if you want to get rid of blemishes or dark spots.
Body lotions containing salicylic acid are useful for rough skin and those with skin conditions called keratosis pilaris since salicylic acid at low concentrations can cause shedding of scales that eventually result in smoother and softer skin.
Moisturizers and Serums for Brighter Skin and Tighter Pores
If you have oily skin, then salicylic is a good match for you. Having salicylic acid in your moisturizer allows you to treat blocked pores and acne while still delivering a dose of hydration, so you don't dry out your skin and cause breakouts.
Serums, on the other hand, reduce excess oil and prevent your face from getting shiny and removes blackheads - tightens your pores in the process.
Moisturizers and serums containing salicylic acid are useful for those with oily skin and they can also help in minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores. Make sure to consult a board-certified dermatologist before using these skincare ingredients especially if it's your first time.
Check the Percentage of Salicylic Acid in a Product: Opt for 0.5 to 2% Concentration
Ideally your skincare products should contain around 0.5 – 2% concentration of salicylic acid, which is effective for treating blackheads and acne, though some have noted how 1% is the golden standard. You might think that it does not sound like much, but acids should be used sparingly.
Remember that this acid is rather potent, so you should not aim for more in hopes of it being more effective. Anything higher must be consulted with a dermatologist or doctor, as it exceeds the spectrum of home use and over-the-counter classification and falls under professional use.
Salicylic acid with concentrations of 2% or less can be used as a mild chemical exfoliant. This is useful for those with oily skin and acne.
In concentrations of 3% to 6%, it causes shedding of scales by softening the skin's outermost layer, dissolving the intercellular matrix, and loosening connections between skin cells. In concentrations greater than 6%, salicylic acid is already destructive to tissues and should only be used under the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist.
10 Best Products With Salicylic Acid to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type of Product | Targeted Concerns | Salicylic Acid Concentration | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Oxecure Acne Clear Powder Mud | | Uses Encapsulated Release for Long-Lasting Benefits | Spot Treatment | Acne Healing | 2% | 5g | |
2 | COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser | | Unclog Your Pores With This Foaming Cleanser | Cleanser | Acne Prevention | 0.5% | 150mL | |
3 | Klued 2% Salicylic Acid Gentle Cleanser | | Effectively Tackles Breakouts and Impurities While Hydrating Skin | Cleanser | Acne Prevention | 2% | 120mL | |
4 | Dermorepubliq 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Deep Pore Care Toner | | An Affordable, Locally-Made Toner With Exfoliating Properties | Toner | Oil Control | 2% | 100mL | |
5 | Barenbliss Pimple Warrior! Salicylic Acid Acne Drying Lotion | | An All-Natural Spot Treatment to Combat Acne Breakouts | Spot Treatment | Acne Healing | 2% | 35mL | |
6 | Garnier Micellar Water Salicylic Acid BHA | | A 2-in-1 Acne Solution for People on the Go | Cleanser、Toner | Oil Control | unknown | 400mL | |
7 | +ful Salicylic Acid 2% Serum | | An Exfoliating Serum to Reveal a Clearer Complexion | Serum | Oil Control、Pore Minimization | 2% | 30mL | |
8 | Mario Badescu Drying Lotion | | A Powerful Blend to Target Stubborn Acne Overnight | Spot Treatment | Acne Healing | unknown | 29mL | |
9 | Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo-Scalp Build-Up Control | | A Potent Shampoo That Eliminates Scalp Buildup | Shampoo | Dandruff and Scalp Buildup | 3% | 133mL | |
10 | Good Molecules BHA Clarify Gel Cream | | Lightweight Gel Cream With Low Salicylic Acid for New Users | Face Cream | Oil Control、Pore Minimization | 0.4% | 30mL | |
Uses Encapsulated Release for Long-Lasting Benefits
Tired of battling breakouts? Try Oxecure Acne Clear Powder Mud, which contains 2% salicylic acid. The encapsulated multi-acne care technology gradually releases active ingredients for longer-lasting benefits. It helps fight acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and fade dark spots.
This 2-in-1 product works as a spot treatment and a face mask, making it ideal for acne-prone skin. It also contains natural extracts like aloe vera, shea butter, and chamomile, which help soothe and hydrate the skin. Users appreciate its effectiveness, noting clearer skin, reduced marks, and a smoother complexion.
| Type of Product | Spot Treatment |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Acne Healing |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 2% |
| Net Weight | 5g |
Unclog Your Pores With This Foaming Cleanser
If you’re looking for a cleanser that clears your pores without drying out your skin, COSRX’s cleanser is for you! It contains 0.5% salicylic acid—effective enough to target blemishes while gentle enough to preserve your skin’s natural moisture. The added tea tree oil helps calm and purify, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
Additionally, its creamy foam texture removes impurities, leaving pores clean, unclogged, and smooth. With its natural BHA component, your skin appears fresh and glowy. Reviewers love its lightweight feel and how it leaves skin feeling clean, soft, and balanced—not tight or dry—making it ideal for daily use.
| Type of Product | Cleanser |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Acne Prevention |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 0.5% |
| Net Weight | 150mL |
Klued2% Salicylic Acid Gentle Cleanser
Effectively Tackles Breakouts and Impurities While Hydrating Skin
With 2% salicylic acid, this cleanser helps clear blemishes and dead skin cells while unclogging your skin’s pores. Another thing that sets this cleanser apart is its minimal ingredient list. It's free from fragrances, parabens, and sulfates, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Moreover, it contains ceramides to renew the moisture barrier, allantoin to soothe, and zinc PCA to control oil. With a skin-friendly pH of 5.5, it also cleanses without stripping moisture! Buyers find it effective in reducing breakouts and improving skin texture, all while being gentle.
| Type of Product | Cleanser |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Acne Prevention |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 2% |
| Net Weight | 120mL |
Dermorepubliq 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Deep Pore Care Toner
An Affordable, Locally-Made Toner With Exfoliating Properties
Are you looking for a budget-friendly yet effective toner? Look no further! Dermorepubliq's toner contains 2% salicylic acid, a powerful BHA known for deep exfoliation that effectively unclogs pores. While packed with potent ingredients, it also includes a soothing blend of botanical extracts that offer calming and protective benefits.
Priced at under 200 pesos, this toner excels in oil control, hydration, and pimple care. It's free from harmful ingredients like sulfates, parabens, silicones, alcohol, artificial colorants, and scents, making it safe for sensitive skin. Users rave about its ability to reduce acne, blackheads, and hyperpigmentation while minimizing pores.
| Type of Product | Toner |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Oil Control |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 2% |
| Net Weight | 100mL |
BarenblissPimple Warrior! Salicylic Acid Acne Drying Lotion
An All-Natural Spot Treatment to Combat Acne Breakouts
It’s also suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. With regular use, its fast-acting formula helps achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin by shrinking pimples overnight. According to reviews, it’s easy to use—just dip a cotton swab into the liquid and apply directly to the pimple.
| Type of Product | Spot Treatment |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Acne Healing |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 2% |
| Net Weight | 35mL |
GarnierMicellar Water Salicylic Acid BHA
A 2-in-1 Acne Solution for People on the Go
The formula also includes vitamin C to brighten the skin, salicylic acid (BHA) to reduce acne, and micelles to remove makeup effortlessly. Buyers rave about its effectiveness in controlling shine and minimizing breakouts, with many reporting clearer, healthier-looking skin after use.
| Type of Product | Cleanser、Toner |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Oil Control |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | unknown |
| Net Weight | 400mL |
An Exfoliating Serum to Reveal a Clearer Complexion
This lightweight, non-greasy serum is vegan and free from parabens, alcohol, and fragrances. Thanks to its low concentration, it’s also an ideal choice for beginners as it has less chance of irritation. Users love how it reduces breakouts and improves skin texture.
| Type of Product | Serum |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Oil Control、Pore Minimization |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 2% |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
A Powerful Blend to Target Stubborn Acne Overnight
Battling breakouts? Mario Badescu Drying Lotion is your secret weapon for overnight acne relief. This powerful spot treatment combines salicylic acid, sulfur, and calamine to target blemishes while you sleep. The pink hue, from calamine, soothes irritation and calms itching.
Perfect for nighttime or relaxing days, this formula quickly removes impurities and reduces redness for clearer, smoother skin by morning. Despite its sulfur and camphor scent, it's worth it for fast, effective results. Reviews highlight its ability to clear breakouts without drying the skin.
| Type of Product | Spot Treatment |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Acne Healing |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | unknown |
| Net Weight | 29mL |
NeutrogenaT/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo-Scalp Build-Up Control
A Potent Shampoo That Eliminates Scalp Buildup
Your scalp needs cleansing too, and this Neutrogena T/SAL Therapeutic Shampoo is a must-try! Formulated with 3% salicylic acid, this powerhouse shampoo effectively tackles scalp issues like dandruff and psoriasis. It gently cleanses while removing flakes and soothing irritation, leaving your scalp refreshed and healthy.
If safety is your concern, worry no more—this dermatologist-recommended product is free from added colors, preservatives, and fragrances. Users love its ability to relieve itching and reduce flaking, making it a go-to solution for many. Plus, it’s safe for all hair types, ensuring everyone can enjoy its benefits.
| Type of Product | Shampoo |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Dandruff and Scalp Buildup |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 3% |
| Net Weight | 133mL |
Good MoleculesBHA Clarify Gel Cream
Lightweight Gel Cream With Low Salicylic Acid for New Users
With green tea extract, centella asiatica, pomegranate, and grapeseed oils, it soothes and hydrates. It’s 100% vegan and cruelty-free, suitable for all skin types, and works overnight for brighter, refreshed skin. Customers appreciate its non-greasy finish and fast absorption, making it a great skincare addition.
| Type of Product | Face Cream |
|---|---|
| Targeted Concerns | Oil Control、Pore Minimization |
| Salicylic Acid Concentration | 0.4% |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
How to Use Salicylic Acid?
Despite its holy grail status, salicylic does have its negative points. Here's how to ensure you're getting the most out of it without harming your skin.
Try not to Overuse It
Yes, there is actually too much of a good thing. In this case prolonged use of salicylic acid can irritate your skin and lead to peeling and skin purging, which is when your skin breaks out because of the rapid exfoliation process.
If it is your first time using it, gradually introduce it to your skin. Use it for about 2-3 times a week and make sure to do a patch test first to know if your skin has any harsh or allergic reactions to the product.
Products containing salicylic acid are not meant to be used daily since it can increase the chances of skin irritation, especially if it is a leave-on product (toners, serums, lotions, moisturizers).
Do not Use It with Other Exfoliants
Salicylic is considered an active ingredient, which means it is responsible for producing the desired effect in a skin care product. This means it can have a rather potent effect on your skin.
If you mix it with other exfoliants such as retinol, which has drying properties, you’re likely to dry out your face because you are getting twice the amount or dosage.
Skincare products with salicylic acid should not be used with other actives like alpha-hydroxy acids, retinoids, and Vitamin C because doing so can lead to more skin irritation or damage to your skin barrier.
Avoid Going Out in the Sun Without Any Good SPF Protection
This is because salicylic acid is an exfoliant and makes you more prone to photosensitivity and potentially burns your skin when exposed to UV rays. Try to use salicylic acid at night.
If you can’t avoid it, let’s say you’ve got a rather nasty zit or breakout that you need to zap, then remember to use sunscreen. This will ensure your face is protected as you go about your day.
Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen on all exposed skin not covered with clothing because salicylic acid can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Stay away also when the sunlight is the most intense and use other means of photoprotection like sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and UV protective clothing when applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison.
Can Salicylic Acid Remove Acne Scars?
Acne scars can either be atrophic (depressed) or raised (hypertrophic). Salicylic acid will not be able to remove these types of acne scars. It is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist for a tailored treatment plan which consists of various procedures such as microneedling, lasers, subcision, fillers, chemical peels, intralesional steroid injections, etc to address these scars.
Can Salicylic Acid Remove Warts?
Salicylic acid can remove warts at high concentrations. Consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance on how to use salicylic acid for wart removal.
Can Salicylic Acid Cause Purging?
Yes, it can cause purging, but not all individuals will experience this. This is due to increased skin cell turnover caused by retinoids and chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid.
Got Acne-Prone Skin? Here Are Some More Products You Can Check Out
Sure salicylic acid is all the rage right now, but let’s not forget to get back to the basics. Check out these products for a foolproof skincare routine.
10 Best Toners for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist
10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 205 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Sunscreens for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Products With Salicylic Acid
No. 1: Oxecure ｜Acne Clear Powder Mud
No. 2: COSRX ｜Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
No. 3: Klued｜2% Salicylic Acid Gentle Cleanser
No. 4: Dermorepubliq ｜2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Deep Pore Care Toner
No. 5: Barenbliss｜Pimple Warrior! Salicylic Acid Acne Drying Lotion
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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