Salicylic acid (a.k.a. beta hydroxy acid) is actually a great, non-irritating alternative to several popular skin care ingredients, is ideal for people with sensitive skin. Salicylic acid is particularly successful in treating acne, because it targets oil in hair follicles and exfoliates pores. It also speeds up cell turnover in much the same way alpha hydroxy acids do. Salicylic acid is an effective alternative for treating sun-damaged and hyperpigmented skin, with some anti-inflammatory activity to boot.

It can dry your skin if be used too often. Try using it only once a day if you have dry skin and twice a day if your skin is oily. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, or by anyone allergic to aspirin.

Aspirin was made of salicylic acid. You can take several non-coated aspirin (depend on the size of the infected area), dissolve it with water, add a little bit honey (for hydrating effect) to make a paste, put on the paste and leave it on for 15--30 minutes, then wash it off.  Finally, put on the moisturizer because the salicylic acid will dry your skin. Many people see quick recovery from the acne by this home therapy.