Salicylic Acid in Personal Care Products

Salicylic acid has a millennia-long pharmaceutical history as a pain reliever. First discovered in the bark of the willow tree, salicylic acid was used to alleviate pain, but it has been determined to have an abundance of applications in personal care products and cosmetics as well. USP ingredient supplier Bell Chem’s inventory has included salicylic acid for quite a while since its applications span across industries, most notably in pharmaceuticals and personal care products.

Common Uses

The low pH level of salicylic acid sloughs off old skin cells (known as a keratolytic agent), giving the appearance of a younger, more radiant complexion. Salicylic acid is often used in conjunction with sodium benzoate in hair care and skin products. Products commonly containing salicylic acid are anti-dandruff shampoos and conditioners, wart removers, acne medications, and exfoliants. Other positive aspects of salicylic acid include its antiseptic property and its ability to prevent the growth of microorganisms.

Acne Remedy

Some researchers and manufacturers have found salicylic acid is gentler on the skin than glycolic acid and recommend its usage as a chemical peel for clogged pores, to reduce the appearance of acute inflammation and skin blemishes, and in cases of extreme acne. In fact, studies have shown that adults are relying on products containing salicylic acid for acne prevention and relief more frequently than the traditionally targeted demographic of teenaged users. 

Consumer Demand

Manufacturers that wish to offer organic products are able to add salicylic acid to the label; in fact, salicylic acid is one of only a handful of preservatives allowed on organic labels. The increased demand of salicylic acid in personal care products has been bolstered by consumer demand, and manufacturers are answering the call by creating products containing salicylic acid for its many positive qualities. 

Bell Chem is a USP ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including salicylic acid. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a monohydroxybenzoic acid known for its ability to relieve aches and pains and reduce fevers. Although lethal in great quantities, salicylic acid is also used as a food preservative, as a bactericidal, and as an antiseptic. However, this chemical is probably best known for its use in acne treatments. Salicylic acid is used topically to help clear pimples and skin blemishes in people who have acne. This chemical treats acne by reducing swelling and redness and unplugging blocked skin pores. Topical salicylic acid is also used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis, calluses, or warts, which involve scaling or overgrowth of the skin. Salicylic acid treats these skin conditions by loosening the dry or scaly skin so that it can be easily removed.

Many fruits and vegetables are natural sources of salicylic acid, including blackberries, blueberries, radishes, cantaloupes, green peppers, dates, guavas, olives, raisins, tomatoes, and mushrooms. A few herbs and spices naturally contain high amounts of this chemical as well.

As a top quality chemical supplier in Orlando, Tampa, and Daytona Beach, we look forward to the opportunity to provide your business with quality chemical products and unrivaled customer service. We have a full-time document coordinator as well as quality inspectors to ensure the accuracy and quality of our orders. Give us a call at 407-339-BELL (2355).