Nuxe
Ingredients
Salicylic acid
2-hydroxybenzoic acid
Salicylic acid is an aromatic organic acid (2‑hydroxybenzoic acid) that occurs naturally in some plants and is widely used as a functional cosmetic ingredient. In formulations it appears as a crystalline powder and is typically incorporated via suitable phases/solvent systems, used either as the free acid or as salicylate salts (e.g., sodium salicylate, potassium salicylate, TEA‑salicylate). In skincare it is found in both leave‑on and rinse‑off products such as gels, serums, toners, creams, and cleansers, where the level is commonly expressed as “acid” (salicylic‑acid equivalent). In haircare it can be present in shampoos and scalp products. In some formulations it may also be used as a preservative, under specific regulatory conditions. pH selection and solubilisation strategy are part of the formulation design to keep the ingredient stable and compatible with other components.
Approved claims
Approved claims
No approved claims yet.
Safety notes
EFSA has not set a tolerable upper intake level (UL) for salicylic acid as a nutrient, as it is not a vitamin or mineral with an established NRV/UL. In EU cosmetics, salicylic acid and its salts are restricted substances and may only be used under the specific conditions and maximum concentrations laid down in Annex III of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. It may interact with other topical products containing irritating or keratolytic ingredients; consult a doctor before use. It may interact with other salicylates (e.g., methyl salicylate) or aspirin in certain contexts; consult a doctor before use. During pregnancy, breastfeeding and for children, consult a doctor before use.
Products containing it
