Best Salicylic Acid Facial Scrubs of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Salicylic acid facial scrubs are a popular choice for those with acne-prone or oily skin. This beta-hydroxy acid is known for its ability to exfoliate deep within the pores, removing dead skin cells and unclogging them. Salicylic acid is also anti-inflammatory, which helps to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. Regular use of a salicylic acid facial scrub can lead to clearer, smoother, and brighter skin. Some products also include other beneficial ingredients such as glycolic acid, tea tree oil, and vitamin C. It's important to note that while salicylic acid is generally safe for most skin types, it can be drying, so it's essential to follow up with a moisturizer.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Facial Scrub Cover #TOP 1
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Facial Scrub
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash Cover #TOP 2
Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Scrub Cover #TOP 3
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Scrub
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Salicylic Acid Facial Scrubs

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Facial Scrub

070501053256
White
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Facial Scrub Cover
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub, 2% Salicylic Acid for Acne-Prone Skin, Exfoliating Daily Facial Scrub, 4.2 fl. oz

This facial scrub is designed for acne-prone skin care. It contains salicylic acid acne medication and MicroClear Technology to help clear acne and treat it even before it emerges. The formula is also enhanced with skin soothers, cucumber, and green tea, leaving the skin soft and smooth instead of over-drying. The exfoliating daily face scrub is gentle and helps prevent acne every day, regardless of whatever stress you have. To use, apply by massaging face gently after wetting the face. Formulated by the #1 Dermatologist Recommended Acne Brand.

What We Like
Effective acne treatment
Non-drying formula
Gentle exfoliation
Soothing ingredients
Daily use safe

Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash

NG05375
Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Wash Cover
Neutrogena Oil Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Face Wash with Vitamin C, 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment, Gentle Foaming Vitamin C Facial Scrub to Treat & Prevent Breakouts, 6.7 fl. oz

The Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Wash is designed to help you fight breakouts effectively. It contains 2% salicylic acid, a powerful ingredient that gently exfoliates your skin while treating acne. This maximum-strength formula targets acne at its source, helping to clear and prevent future breakouts thanks to MicroClear technology, which improves delivery of the active ingredient. The face scrub also includes natural pink grapefruit extract and vitamin C, which work together to smooth your skin and leave it looking healthier. Additionally, this foaming, oil-free wash cuts through excess oil and unclogs pores, removing dirt and impurities to keep your skin clean and fresh every day.

What We Like
2% salicylic acid acne treatment
MicroClear technology for deep action
Contains vitamin C and grapefruit extract
Oil-free, foaming daily cleanser
#TOP 3

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Scrub

70501028209
ORANGE
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Scrub Cover
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash with 2% Salicylic Acid, Daily Exfoliating Scrub & Acne Treatment for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin, Clears Breakouts & Blackheads, 4.2 fl. oz

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Scrub is a 4.2-fluid ounce tube of daily face wash that helps prevent breakouts and is ideal for acne-prone skin. It contains 2% salicylic acid acne medication to help clean and exfoliate deep into the pores, and MicroClear Technology to boost the delivery of the acne medication to the source of breakouts. This acne-fighting exfoliating face wash dissolves oil, dirt, and impurities to help unclog pores, leaving skin clear and smooth. It is gentle enough for daily use and is recommended by dermatologists.

What We Like
Contains 2% salicylic acid acne medication to help clean and exfoliate deep into the pores
MicroClear Technology boosts the delivery of acne medication to the source of breakouts
Dissolves oil, dirt, and impurities to help unclog pores and leave skin clear and smooth

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

666151020788
White
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Cover
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, Face Exfoliator Scrub Powder with Salicylic Acid and Papaya Enzyme, Achieve Brighter, Smoother Skin Daily, 0.45 oz

Dermalogica Microfoliant is a facial scrub that helps you achieve brighter, smoother skin daily. Its papaya enzyme and salicylic acid formula removes dulling surface debris and evens skin tone, revealing a brighter and smoother complexion. This pore cleanser is gentle enough for daily use and can be easily applied by dispensing about a half-teaspoon into wet hands and creating a creamy paste by rubbing hands together. Its circular motions application method avoids the eye area and ensures an even exfoliation. With Dermalogica Microfoliant, you can enjoy a more radiant and even skin tone every day.

What We Like
Removes dulling debris
Evens skin tone
Brightens complexion

Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Face Scrub with Salicylic Acid

SKGLYFSCNB75
no colour
Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Face Scrub with Salicylic Acid Cover
Nip + Fab Glycolic Acid Fix Face Scrub with Salicylic Acid, AHA/BHA Exfoliating Facial Cleanser Polish for Refining Pores Skin Brightening, 75 ml 2.5 fl oz

The Nip+Fab Glycolic Acid Fix Face Scrub with Salicylic Acid is an exfoliating facial cleanser that gently cleanses and polishes the skin without stripping it. It reduces blemishes, refines pores, and resurfaces with 3% glycolic acid. This 3-in-1 micro exfoliant can be used 1-3 times per week to brighten the complexion and energize the skin with its fruity grapefruit scent.

What We Like
Gently exfoliates and cleanses the skin without stripping it
Reduces blemishes and refines pores
Resurfaces with 3% glycolic acid for all skin types
#TOP 6

Bioré Pore Unclogging Scrub

KAO822577
Multicolor
5 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Bioré Pore Unclogging Scrub Cover
Bioré Pore Unclogging Scrub, Removes Excess Dirt and Oils, Face Scrub, with Salicylic Acid, Oil Free, (HSA/FSA Approved), 5 Ounces

Bioré Pore Unclogging Scrub is formulated with salicylic acid and spherical beads to penetrate deep into the pores, clear impurities caused by dirt and oil, and smooth dry, flaky skin from the surface. It helps control blemishes and prevent future breakouts, leaving your skin softer and smoother after one use. The gentle scrub is suitable for daily use and won't damage your skin.

What We Like
Deeply penetrates pores to clear away blemish-causing dirt and oil
Removes dry, flaky skin for a softer and smoother complexion
Helps control blemishes and prevent future breakouts

Envy Hyaluronic Acid Face Scrub

1 Count (Pack of 1)
Envy Hyaluronic Acid Face Scrub Cover
Envy Hyaluronic Acid & Salicylic Acid Face Scrub - Hydrating, Moisturizing & Anti-Aging Facial Exfoliating Scrub - Dermatologist Tested, Clean Beauty for All Skin Types - 6.76 Oz

The Envy Face Scrub combines the best of Korean skincare with powerful ingredients. Hyaluronic Acid hydrates and plumps your skin, helping to reduce dryness and improve elasticity for a youthful glow. Meanwhile, Salicylic Acid gently exfoliates and unclogs pores, making it ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin. This scrub not only clears away dead skin but also helps prevent breakouts, leaving your complexion smooth and clear. Plus, it’s made with clean, natural ingredients, ensuring a safe and effective skincare experience for everyone.

What We Like
Deep hydration
Gentle exfoliation
Clean, natural ingredients
Vegan and cruelty-free
#TOP 8

Solimo Pink Grapefruit Facial Scrub

Amazon Brand - Solimo
pink
Solimo Pink Grapefruit Facial Scrub Cover
Amazon Brand - Solimo Oil-free Pink Grapefruit Facial Scrub, 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Medication, Dermatologist Tested, 4.2 fl oz (Pack of 1)

The Solimo Pink Grapefruit Facial Scrub is a dermatologist-tested acne medication that helps prevent the development of new acne pimples. This oil-free scrub contains 2% salicylic acid, which is known for its acne-fighting properties. The polyethylene bead-free formula is gentle on the skin and is not tested on animals. If you're a fan of Neutrogena Oil-free Acne Wash, you should give the Solimo Pink Grapefruit Scrub a try. Made in the U.S.A., this product is not recommended for sensitive skin. With a satisfaction guarantee and a year-long refund policy, you can be confident in your purchase. Experience the benefits of this Amazon brand facial scrub and enjoy clearer, healthier-looking skin.

What We Like
Effective for sensitive skin
Leaves skin soft and smooth
Great value for the price
Reduces acne and pimples
Convenient and easy to use

Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser Facial Scrub

03593
BLUE
5 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)
Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser Facial Scrub Cover
Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser Facial Scrub with 2% Salicylic Acid, Acne-Prone Face Wash for Daily Exfoliation, Oil-Free Face Scrub to Remove Blackheads, Dirt, and Oil, 5 Fl. oz

Get clearer and healthier-looking skin with Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser Facial Scrub. The 5-ounce scrub has 2% salicylic acid acne medication that helps to lift away dirt, oil, and impurities that can cause pimples, blackheads, and acne breakouts. The scrub contains natural micro-scrubbers for surface skin exfoliation and a deep-down clean. It is gentle and oil-free, suitable for all skin types to help eliminate blackheads and acne. Include this in your daily skincare routine for best results.

What We Like
Contains 2% salicylic acid acne medication
Gently exfoliates surface skin
Suitable for all skin types
#TOP 10

St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub

77043358023
multi
6 Ounce (Pack of 1)
St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub Cover
St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub, Clears Blackheads & Unclogs Pores, Green Tea & Bamboo, Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Facial Scrub, Moderate Exfoliator Skin Care with Natural Exfoliants 6 oz

St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub is a facial scrub made with 100% natural exfoliants and salicylic acid to clear blackheads, unclog pores, and prevent breakouts. Its moderate exfoliation factor buffs away dead skin cells and leaves skin clear, soft, and glowing. This face scrub is perfect for preventing acne caused by face masks and evens skin tone.

What We Like
Gentle and hydrating
Effectively clears blackheads
Good value for money
Pleasant scent
Suitable for sensitive skin
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our salicylic acid facial scrub research, we found 48 salicylic acid facial scrub products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 295,799 customer reviews through our big data system to write the salicylic acid facial scrubs list. We found that most customers choose salicylic acid facial scrubs with an average price of $7.88.

The salicylic acid facial scrubs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of salicylic acid facial scrubs, including Neutrogena, Dermalogica, Nip+Fab, Envy, Clean & Clear. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.