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Salicylic Acid

11 Products

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Gently Effective Blemish-Treating Cleansing Paste

Gently Effective Blemish-Treating Cleansing Paste

A 3-in-1 gentle blemish cleanser containing 2% Salicylic Acid that is specifically formulated to help to reduce blemishes without drying skin.

One size

125 ml

Old price New price £34.00

A close-up of Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 texture swipe showing a lightweight, creamy formula. Text highlights UV protection and hydration benefits.

Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 swiped on a model's face.

Light blue background with a jar of Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30. Clinical claims highlight that it helps repair the skin barrier in 1 hour and provides up to 72-hour hydration.

Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 Moisturiser

A 24-hour daily SPF 30 moisturiser that smoothes and hydrates skin while offering sun protection.

One size

50 ml

Old price New price £37.00

Blue Herbal Astringent Lotion

A unique facial toner for use on oily-prone areas.

One size

250 ml

Old price New price £23.00

Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution 30ml bottle.

Close-up of Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution texture showing clear liquid drops.

A person applying Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution to their skin.

Bottle of Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution with text: Visibly Reduces Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation.

Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Correcting Serum

A face dark spot corrector and brightening serum that helps visibly reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks.

Old price New price £73.00

Daily Refining Milk-Peel Toner

A gently exfoliating milk-peel toner that refines and smoothes skin.

One size

200 ml

Old price New price £59.00

A 15ml bottle of Kiehl's Truly-Targeted Blemish-Clearing Solution against a white background.

A close-up of the Truly-Targeted Blemish-Clearing Solution texture showing clear liquid with droplets. Text highlights its suitability for all skin types, safety for acne-prone skin, and blemish-clearing benefits.

Truly Targeted Blemish-Clearing Solution

An invisible liquid blemish patch with 2% Salicylic Acid that’s specifically formulated to provide visible results on blemishes and post-blemish marks.

One size

15 ml

Old price New price £27.00

Iris Extract Activating Essence Treatment

Iris Extract Activating Essence Treatment

An anti-ageing facial essence formulated to reactivate skin’s youthful appearance.

One size

200 ml

Old price New price £45.00

Ferulic Brew Rejuvenating Facial Essence

Ferulic Brew Rejuvenating Facial Essence

A Ferulic Acid facial essence boosting radiance and the feeling of resilience for skin that looks and feels youthful.

Old price New price £45.00

Vital Skin-Strengthening Hyaluronic Acid Super Serum

Vital Skin-Strengthening Hyaluronic Acid Super Serum

A skin-strengthening serum that helps skin feel protected against daily stressors and premature signs of ageing.

Old price New price £74.00

A 50ml jar of Kiehl's Age Defender Cream Moisturizer against a white background.

Close-up of Age Defender Cream Moisturizer texture swipe; reduces signs of aging, fine lines, suitable for all skin types.

Age Defender Cream Moisturizer

A firming, lifting, anti-wrinkle moisturiser for men.

25% Off

Old price £67.00 New price £50.25

A bottle of Kiehl's Body Fuel All-In-One Energizing Wash against a white background.

Close-up of Body Fuel All-In-One Energizing Wash texture showing a creamy, moisturizing formula for skin, hair, and scalp.

Body Fuel All-In-One Energizing Wash lathered on skin, demonstrating its use.

Body Fuel All-In-One Energizing Wash: Cleanses & Conditions skin, hair and scalp, leaving them invigorated and refreshed.

Body Fuel Wash

An invigorating hair and body wash for men for head-to-toe cleansing.

25% Off

Old price £25.00 New price £18.75

Frequently Asked Questions

Target blemishes and unclog pores with our expert guide to salicylic acid skincare.

Does Kiehl's have salicylic acid skincare products for blemish-prone skin?

Yes, Kiehl's offers a range of salicylic acid skincare products specifically formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin. Our Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser is a great starting point if you're looking to help unclog pores and refine skin texture. We recommend building salicylic acid into your routine gradually, starting with a few times per week and increasing as your skin adjusts.

Can I use Kiehl's salicylic acid products alongside other active ingredients in my routine?

You can typically combine Kiehl's salicylic acid skincare with ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid without any issues, as these tend to complement each other well. However, we recommend being cautious when layering salicylic acid with other exfoliating acids or retinol, as using them together may increase the chance of irritation. If you want to use both, try alternating nights and always follow with a good moisturiser like our >Ultra Facial Cream to keep skin balanced.

How long does salicylic acid take to work on blemishes?

Most people begin to notice improvements in blemishes and overall skin texture within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use, though some may see early changes sooner. Salicylic acid works gradually by penetrating into pores to dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells, so patience and regular application are key. If you experience any dryness or sensitivity during this time, try reducing how often you apply it and make sure you're using a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.

What Does Salicylic Acid Actually Do for Your Skin?

Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) that penetrates deep into your pores to dissolve the mix of dead skin cells and excess sebum that causes congestion. Because it can cut through oil in a way that water-soluble ingredients simply cannot, it works from the inside out to clear blackheads, whiteheads, and blemishes at their source. If you're dealing with clogged pores or a bumpy texture, adding salicylic acid skincare to your routine is a brilliant place to start.

Can You Use Salicylic Acid Every Day?

You can use salicylic acid daily once your skin has adjusted, though we recommend most people start with two to three times per week and build up gradually. Your skin will tell you what it needs, so if you notice any tightness or flaking, simply dial back the frequency. Once your skin is comfortable, a daily salicylic acid skincare product like a gentle cleanser can become a reliable part of your routine.

What Percentage Of Salicylic Acid Should I Look For?

For most people, a concentration between 0.5% and 2% salicylic acid is effective for everyday skincare, with 2% being the maximum typically found in over-the-counter products. If you're new to the ingredient or have sensitive skin, starting at the lower end gives your skin time to adjust without overwhelming it. Higher concentrations are available through professional treatments, but for a solid salicylic acid skincare routine at home, that 0.5-2% range hits the sweet spot.

Does Salicylic Acid Make Your Skin More Sensitive to the Sun?

Yes, salicylic acid can increase your skin's sensitivity to UV rays, which is why wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day is essential when using it. This is true for most exfoliating acids, as they remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells that would otherwise provide some protection. We recommend applying SPF 30 or higher every morning as the final step in your routine, rain or shine.

Is Salicylic Acid Suitable for Sensitive Skin?

Salicylic acid can work for sensitive skin when introduced carefully, though we always recommend starting with a lower concentration and using it just once or twice a week initially. A patch test behind your ear or on your inner arm is a smart first step to see how your skin responds before applying it to your face. If you have very reactive skin or conditions like eczema or rosacea, having a chat with a dermatologist before diving into salicylic acid skincare is a wise move.

What's the Difference Between Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide?

Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide tackle blemishes in different ways: salicylic acid works by unclogging pores and dissolving oil, while benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin's surface. Salicylic acid tends to be gentler and is particularly effective for blackheads and congestion, whereas benzoyl peroxide is often better suited for inflammatory, red blemishes. Many people find that incorporating both into their routine (on alternate days) gives them the best of both worlds.

Can I Use Salicylic Acid if I'm Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

We recommend speaking with your doctor or midwife before using salicylic acid skincare products during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as guidance can vary depending on the concentration and product type. Low-concentration salicylic acid in rinse-off products like cleansers is generally considered lower risk than leave-on treatments, but it's always best to get personalised advice. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh up the options and suggest alternatives if needed.