Salicylic Acid vs. Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne-Prone Skin

Salicyclic acid (SA) and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) are two of the most popular ingredients helping to clear blemish-prone skin. , and soothing gels. But although these ingredients share some similarities, they also have a number of key differences. Here, discover some important facts about using salicylic acid vs. benzoyl peroxide.including: cleansers, targeted serums, moisturi, and soothing gels. But although these ingredients share some similarities, they also have a number of key differences.Here, discover some important facts about using salicylic acid vs. benzoyl peroxide.

Overview

When it comes to tackling blemish-prone skin, there are two skincare ingredients that dermatologists often recommend: salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. These active ingredients can help visibly clear blemishes, lessen the appearance of blackheads, and help prevent acne-prone skin from new breakouts. However, there’s often some confusion around who should use each ingredient, when, and why. To help set the record straight, we’ve compiled key information about salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide below. We’ll be covering their benefits, how they work, and common misconceptions.Plus, we’ll also introduce you to some CeraVe products with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide that can help keep your breakouts and achieve a clear complexion.

Facts About Benzoyl Peroxide & Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are two common active ingredients used to helping control blemish-prone skin.
These skincare ingredients both influence pimples, marks and spots, but they differ in the way that they deliver these benefits.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that works primarily as a chemical exfoliant, promoting the elimination of dead skin cells from the skin’s surface.
Both ingredients can be found in a variety of at-home remedies such as acne-prone skin face washes, spot treatments, and exfoliators.

What Is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that occurs naturally in plant species like willow bark. It’s been used for over 2,000 years to help treat a variety of skin concerns. Today, salicylic acid is usually created in a lab and added to skincare formulations for acne, as well as enlarged pores, rough and bumpy skin (keratosis pilar), and skin conditions like psoriasis.

You can find salicylic acid in our Blemish Control range, which is developed with dermatologists to clear acne blemishes, reduce the look of blackheads, and help prevent acne-prone skin from new breakouts.

Why Is Salicylic Acid Beneficial for Acne-Prone Skin?

In skincare, salicylic acid is known as “desmolytic agent” and recognised as a substance that encourages the skin's inherent renewal process by aiding in gentle removal of old skin cells

This chemical exfoliant works by loosening the bonds (or “glue”) that holds your skin cells together. This, in turn, helps eliminate dead skin cell buildup that can clog your pores and result in acne. Using skincare products with salicylic acid can help your complexion appear smoother, fresher, and healthier-looking.

Plus, salicylic acid is also “lipid-soluble.” This means that, unlike other chemical exfoliants, salicylic acid can dissolve in oil. This unique property allows salicylic acid to penetrate your pores—making it an especially effective option for managing blackheads, excessive oiliness, and clogged pores.

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide is an organic acid that’s widely used in skincare for acne-prone conditions, such as spot treatments, cleansing bars, lotions, and gels. This topical treatment has been used for over six decades to help treat and prevent acne-prone skin condition. Applying benzoyl peroxide products consistently can reduce acne-causing irritationand therefore, help minimise the frequency of breakouts.

In over-the-counter skincare products, you can find benzoyl peroxide in concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10%

How Does Benzoyl Peroxide Work for Acne-Prone Skin?

Because of its ability to manage skin irritation, benzoyl peroxide has long been considered as a go-to option when combatting blemish-prone skin. essentially, when you apply benzoyl peroxide to your skin, it breaks down and sets free oxygen. This super oxygen is like a troublemaker for certain cells, particularly the ones that create those blemish-prone skin issues.

It’s important to note, however, that benzoyl peroxide may cause skin irritation in some people—such as those with sensitive skin. The chances for side effects may increase with higher concentrations or when too much product is applied. Signs of irritation to look out for include skin redness, itching, or increased sensitivity.

To help avoid possible skin irritation, always read the product label closely and apply per the instructions (or as directed by a dermatologist). We also recommend keeping skin hydrated and using barrier-restoring products that help keep the skin comfortable during treatment. For the best guidance, seek the help of a board-certified dermatologist. They can assess your skin and provide recommendations on how to best utilize benzoyl peroxide for your skin’s unique needs.

What Are the Differences Between Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid?

Both of these skincare ingredients can be useful options for managing breakouts, but they differ in the way they function. As mentioned above, salicylic acid works by promoting your skin’s exfoliation process. This helps keep your pores free of excess oil and dead skin cells that can contribute to breakouts.

Your dermatologist can help you pinpoint the right acne-prone skin ingredients based on your complexion, age, environment, gender, and other individual factors.

Can Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid Be Used Together?

In general, these two acne-prone skin actives are best used on their own. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid aren’t typically included in the same formulas, as using them together may increase the risk for skin redness. In some cases, your dermatologist may recommend combining them in a strategic way for acne-prone skin that is particularly stubborn or severe.

Which CeraVe Products Feature Salicylic Acid?

Whether you struggle with stubborn breakouts or the occasional pimple, CeraVe’s salicylic acid formulas can help. Here are two CeraVe skincare products with salicylic acid that are designed to help keep acne-prone skin looking and feeling its best.

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser

When it comes to salicylic acid cleansers for breakouts and acne-prone skin, we recommend CeraVe Blemish-Control Cleanser. This gel-to-foam acne-prone face wash is formulated with 2% salicylic acid, along with other beneficial ingredients like niacinamide, hectorite clay, and our three essential ceramides to help prevent skin barrier disruption while cleansing.

CeraVe Blemish Control Gel

CeraVe Blemish-Control Gel is a full-face hydrating acne-prone skin facial moisturiser with 2% salicylic acid. It’s applied onto clean, dry skin after cleansing to clear acne, minimise the look of pores, help prevent new breakouts, and improve skin texture. This mild formula is non-drying and can help your skin appear smoother and more radiant—without compromising your skin’s protective barrier.

When To See a Dermatologist

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), acne-prone skin can usually be managed at home using over-the-counter products (including formulas with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide). However, some types of acne-prone skin situation may require the help of a board-certified dermatologist (such as nodules and cysts).

Schedule a visit with a dermatologist if your acne-prone skin condition is painful, interferes with your daily activities, or doesn’t improve on its own with a consistent skincare routine after four to six weeks. Your dermatologist will be able to help assess the root cause of your blemish-prone skin condition, answer any questions you have, and recommend the best daily regimen for your skin’s needs

References

Arif T. "Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: a comprehensive review." Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015 Aug 26;8:455-61. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S84765. PMID: 26347269; PMCID: PMC4554394.
Decker A, Graber EM. “Over-the-counter Acne Treatments: A Review.” J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012 May;5(5):32-40. PMID: 22808307; PMCID: PMC3366450.
“Acne: Diagnosis and Treatment.” American Academy of Dermatology Association, 2022.

*Source: IQVIA, ProSource Survey, 12 months ending January 2023.