
Skin Concerns
· Acne
· Blackheads
· Fatigue/Radiance
What You’ll See On The Ingredient List
Salicylic Acid
Why Your Skin Needs It
If you experience any type of blemishes, from sporadic breakouts to stubborn acne, you need salicylic acid. This beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) stimulates cell turnover and unclogs pores, revealing fresh skin that’s naturally smoother with greater clarity.
The Clinique Expertise
Acne Solutions™ Clinical Advanced Clearing Gel has a potent dose of salicylic acid that helps clear up those stubborn blemishes quickly upon application. It also helps prevent new ones from making an unwelcome appearance.
What Our Clinique Derm Says
“I love salicylic acid and use it all the time. It’s a highly effective and super-gentle chemical exfoliant that whisks away pore-clogging dead skin cells to pave the way for clearer skin,” says Dr. Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
Top Sellers With Salicylic Acid
More Key Ingredients

The Clinique Formula: Performance, Safety, Science
Clinique launched the first-ever line of dermatologist-developed skincare in 1968. The promise: to deliver effective, safe, clinically proven formulas that create great skin. We avoid using allergens, irritants and ingredients in ways that could potentially harm your skin.
Proven results are from how multiple ingredients are combined using the latest scientific breakthroughs to achieve maximum results without irritation. As science evolves, we continuously re-examine ingredients with our researchers, formulators, clinicians, and guiding board-certified dermatologists.
No parabens. No phthalates. No fragrance. Just happy skin.
Salicylic Acid FAQ
5 Questions
What does salicylic acid do for my skin?
Salicylic acid stimulates cell turnover and unclogs pores, revealing fresh skin that’s naturally smoother with greater clarity.
How does salicylic acid help with blemishes and breakouts?
If you experience blemishes—from sporadic breakouts to stubborn acne—salicylic acid helps clear trapped dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that can clog pores.
Which Clinique products contain salicylic acid, and how do they use it?
- Acne Solutions™ Clinical Advanced Clearing Gel. This medicated formula helps clear up acne and prevent future blemishes. It starts working with one application and helps reduce blemishes, excess oil, and shine.
- Even Better Clinical™ Serum Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 25. This formula contains salicylic acid to help smooth and retexturize skin over time. It also helps even the look of skin tone and blur imperfections.
- Acne Solutions™ Liquid Makeup. This oil-free foundation helps cover and treat acne. It contains salicylic acid that helps treat existing breakouts and keep them from coming back.
- Acne Solutions™ Cleansing Foam. This daily cleanser helps remove dirt and excess oil while unclogging pores. The medicated formula helps clear and prevent acne.
Is salicylic acid gentle enough for regular use?
According to Clinique’s dermatologist, salicylic acid is described as a highly effective and super-gentle chemical exfoliant.






































