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

This Aveeno pick is ideal for acne-prone skin thanks to its non-comedogenic formula and inclusion of salicylic acid. —Jessie Quinn, People.com, 31 Dec. 2024

The formula also boasts exfoliating salicylic acid, soothing menthol, conditioning rosemary oil, and anti-inflammatory ginger extract. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 24 Oct. 2024

Actives like salicylic acid and lactic acid can gently lift away dead skin cells without traumatizing an already sensitive region. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 20 Dec. 2024

For example, effectively exfoliating the body of dead skin may require a higher strength of salicylic acid than what’s found in facial products, or even an entirely different ingredient that isn’t recommended for the face. —Victoria Moorhouse, Allure, 12 Dec. 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