Salicylic acid

Function: Exfoliant
Origin: Natural or synthetic

Salicylic acid, also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA, is an ingredient capable of exfoliating the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. Because salicylic acid is oil soluble, it also has the ability to penetrate pores and exfoliate them.

Salicylic acid is a substance produced naturally by several plants, including willow. Its name comes from the Latin word salix.