Best Salicylic Acid Face Serums of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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Salicylic acid face serums are a popular skincare product known for their ability to target acne, blemishes, and uneven skin texture. These serums typically contain a concentration of salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied topically, salicylic acid can help to unclog pores, reduce excess oil production, and promote a clearer, smoother complexion. Many people find that incorporating a salicylic acid serum into their skincare routine can help to improve the overall appearance of their skin.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum Cover #TOP 1
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pure Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (30 mL) by Pure Cover #TOP 2
Pure Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (30 mL) by Pure
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum Cover #TOP 3
Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Salicylic Acid Face Serums

Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum

SA02
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum Cover
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne, Blackhead & Open Pores | Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture | BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Acne Prone & Oily Skin | For Women & Men | 1 Fl Oz/30ml

Minimalist Salicylic Serum is a facial serum designed to combat acne, blackheads, and open pores. Its formula contains 2% BHA, which effectively cleanses and tightens pores while removing excess oil and shine. This serum is also an anti-acne solution, reducing redness and balancing oil production. The product is fragrance-free, silicone-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, essential oil-free, and dye-free, making it a clean and transparent beauty choice. Its non-comedogenic, oil-free, and hypoallergenic formula makes it suitable for all skin types, especially acne-prone or oily skin. Regular use of the serum can remove blackheads and whiteheads, even preventing future blackheads, resulting in clear, soft, and matt-looking skin.

What We Like
Removes blackheads and whiteheads
Tightens and cleanses pores
Reduces acne redness
Controls oil production
Clean and transparent beauty
#TOP 2

Pure Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (30 mL) by Pure

1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Pure Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (30 mL) by Pure Cover
Pure Original Ingredients Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (30 mL), Pure & Simple Serum

The Pure Salicylic Acid 2% Solution by Pure is a facial serum specifically designed to treat acne, hyper-pigmentation, and premature aging. It is gentle yet effective and safe for daily use in the morning and evening. The solution helps to prevent future breakouts, even skin tone, and reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles, large pores, and under-eye bags. The ingredients of this facial serum are Propylene Glycol and Salicylic Acid. The best way to use it is by applying a small drop directly on spots or using a gauze pad to apply it to the entire face.

What We Like
Formulated to treat acne, hyper-pigmentation, and premature aging
Safe for daily use in the morning and evening
Can help prevent future breakouts and even skin tone
#TOP 3

Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum

ENSCS1
White
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Eva Naturals Vitamin C Serum Cover
Vitamin C Serum for Face - Skin Clearing Serum with Salicylic Acid Retinol, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid - Skin Brightening Acne Serum - Anti Aging Dark Spot Treatment(1 oz)

The Eva Naturals Face Serum is designed to enhance your skin's appearance with a blend of potent ingredients. It brightens your complexion by reducing dark spots, giving you a radiant glow. This serum also combats acne by controlling oil production and refining your pores. Additionally, it tackles signs of aging, smoothing out wrinkles and firming sagging skin, thanks to its unique combination of Vitamin C, retinol, and niacinamide. With added botanicals like aloe vera and dandelion, it hydrates and nourishes your skin, making it feel refreshed and revitalized.

What We Like
Brightens complexion
Fights acne effectively
Reduces wrinkles
Hydrates and nourishes
#TOP 4

Salicylic Acid 20% Serum for Acne and Premature Aging

1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Salicylic Acid 20% Serum for Acne and Premature Aging Cover
Salicylic Acid 20% Solution, 1 fl oz Glass Dropper, Pure & Simple Serum

The Salicylic Acid 20% Serum is a professional-grade facial serum formulated to combat acne, hyper-pigmentation, and premature aging. Its ingredients, Propylene Glycol, and Salicylic Acid work together to even out skin tone, prevent future breakouts, minimize large pores, fine wrinkles, and under-eye bags. It is advised to test the serum on a small skin area before using it on the entire face. For best results, apply a small drop to affected areas or use a gauze pad to apply it to the entire face weekly or biweekly.

What We Like
Combats acne, hyper-pigmentation, and premature aging
Prevents future breakouts
Minimizes large pores, fine wrinkles, and under-eye bags
#TOP 5

Thayers Double Action Acne Serum

Clear
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Thayers Double Action Acne Serum Cover
Thayers Double Action Acne Serum with Salicylic Acid, Acne Treatment Face Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide, Soothing and Non-Stripping Skin Care, 1 Fl Oz

Thayers Acne Serum is designed to tackle acne while keeping your skin hydrated. With 2% salicylic acid, it penetrates deep into pores to clear breakouts and improve skin texture in just one week. This powerful formula also includes niacinamide and lactic acid to help fade post-acne marks and enhance hydration within 15 minutes. The serum features a non-stripping formula that absorbs quickly, maintaining your skin's moisture barrier without irritation. It's free from fragrances, alcohol, and parabens, making it a safe choice for your skincare routine.

What We Like
Effective acne treatment
Fast-acting hydration
Non-irritating formula
Clinically tested results
#TOP 6

La Roche Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment

3337872413155
No Color
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
La Roche Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Cover
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment to Minimize Pores, Clear Acne Blemishes and Post Acne Marks

This facial serum is designed for oily skin that targets fine lines, enlarged pores, and skin tightening. Its ingredients such as glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, and lipo-hydroxy acid help reduce the look of pores, smooth skin texture and boost skin radiance. With Lipo-Hydroxy Acid, this serum has exfoliating and skin surface renewing properties, while Glycolic Acid is known for its ability to increase skin surface cell turnover and improve skin tone and texture.

What We Like
Targets fine lines and enlarged pores
Helps reduce the look of pores and smooth skin texture
Boosts skin radiance
#TOP 7

Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment

810019610509
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment Cover
Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment - Facial Exfoliant with AHA for Tone and Texture - Pore Minimizer, Skincare for Face with Salicylic Acid

The Good Molecules Exfoliating Treatment is designed to enhance your skin's appearance while you sleep. With its powerful ingredients, it helps brighten and resurface your skin, giving you a radiant glow by morning. You can expect improved texture and reduced breakouts, as the formula effectively targets clogged and enlarged pores. This treatment combines glycolic and lactic acids to stimulate renewal, while salicylic acid addresses blemishes and irritations. It's simple to use—just apply a few drops to clean skin at night, and you’ll wake up to a refreshed complexion.

What We Like
Brightens and resurfaces skin
Reduces breakouts and blemishes
Targets enlarged and clogged pores
Suitable for all skin types
#TOP 8

artnaturals Salicylic Acid Serum

1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
artnaturals Salicylic Acid Serum Cover
artnaturals Salicylic acid Serum - Advanced Serum with 2% BHA - Helps control oil production- Pore Reducer - 1 oz

The artnaturals Salicylic Serum is designed to give your skin a refreshed and revitalized look. With its acne-fighting properties, this serum helps reduce breakouts, allowing you to enjoy clearer skin. It also promotes healthy collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Additionally, containing 2% BHA, the serum effectively controls oil production, helping to keep your skin balanced and less prone to shine. Overall, this product aims to enhance your skin's appearance and health, making it a great addition to your skincare routine.

What We Like
Controls acne breakouts
Promotes collagen production
Reduces oiliness
Fresh and revitalized skin
#TOP 9

PURE ORIGINAL INGREDIENTS Salicylic Acid 5% Serum

1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
PURE ORIGINAL INGREDIENTS Salicylic Acid 5% Serum Cover
Pure Original Ingredients Salicylic Acid 5% Solution (30 mL), Pure & Simple Serum

The PURE ORIGINAL Salicylic Acid Serum is a straightforward solution designed to target skin concerns effectively. With a 5% concentration of salicylic acid, this serum helps to gently exfoliate the skin, making it ideal for those dealing with acne or blemishes. The convenient dropper jar allows for easy application, ensuring you can apply the right amount every time. Made with pure ingredients, including propylene glycol, this serum is crafted to be simple yet effective, providing users with a reliable option for clearer skin.

What We Like
Effective acne treatment
Easy application with dropper
Simple ingredient list
Convenient 30 mL size
#TOP 10

Cocokind Postbiotic Acne Serum

0810041460325
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Cocokind Postbiotic Acne Serum Cover
Cocokind Postbiotic Acne Serum, Salicylic Acid Serum and BHA Liquid Exfoliant - Exfoliating, Brightening and Hydrating Serum

Cocokind Postbiotic Acne Serum is a facial serum that helps with acne, blackheads, and clogged pores. It uses 1.5% Salicylic Acid and Postbiotics to exfoliate the skin, decongest pores, and reduce excess oil and the look of inflammation and redness. The serum is also hydrating using Beta Glucan to lock in hydration and support the skin barrier. It is recommended to use the serum 3-4 times a week before building up to daily usage if you are new to BHA. Cocokind skin care products are earth-friendly and gentle on the skin.

What We Like
Helps with acne, blackheads, and clogged pores
Exfoliates the skin, decongests pores, and reduces excess oil and the look of inflammation and redness
Hydrating serum that locks in hydration and supports the skin barrier
Earth-friendly and gentle on the skin
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can salicylic acid be used as a serum?

Salicylic acid 2% serum is for you if you have acne prone-skin and excessively oily skin. It helps reduce and prevents acne blemishes, smooth skin texture, and keeps the oils in check. All skin types can benefit from a lightweight salicylic acid liquid exfoliant, as it gives you a refined and healthy glow.

2. Which serum has salicylic acid?

The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum for Acne The salicylic acid in this serum is a strong exfoliant that controls the overabundance of sebum in the pores. It's an intense fixing to reduce existing pimples and skin inflammation, just as forestall further breakouts.

3. Can I use salicylic acid serum everyday?

"If salicylic acid is an ingredient in your cleanser, it is fine to use it every day." However, if you are using an exfoliant that salicylic acid in the formula, Dr. Hu advises only using the product three times per week, to avoid over-exfoliating the skin and drying it out.

Editor's Notes

During our salicylic acid face serum research, we found 48 salicylic acid face serum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 365,914 customer reviews through our big data system to write the salicylic acid face serums list. We found that most customers choose salicylic acid face serums with an average price of $13.85.

The salicylic acid face serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of salicylic acid face serums, including Minimalist, PURE ORIGINAL INGREDIENTS, Eva Naturals, THAYERS, La Roche-Posay. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 394 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.