Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that's widely used in skincare for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties. It's a colorless, crystalline organic compound sourced from the bark of willow trees but is now often manufactured. Salicylic acid is commonly used in a wide range of skincare products like cleansers, toners, exfoliators, spot treatments and serums. It's a hero ingredient in formulas designed to treat and prevent acne, as well as to improve overall skin texture and clarity. It's also found in products that target issues like blackheads, whiteheads and clogged pores because of its ability to exfoliate and unclog congested skin.