salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsa-lə-ˈsi-lik- How to pronounce salicylic acid (audio)
: a crystalline phenolic acid C7H6O3 that is used medicinally especially as a skin exfoliant and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic compare aspirin

Examples of salicylic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So, strong actives like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and tea tree oil are likely too harsh and can irritate the bump even more. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 1 Nov. 2024 The refreshing peppermint not only smells incredible but also soothes tired, dry feet, while aloe leaf juice and gentle exfoliating salicylic acid work together to deeply hydrate and soften even the roughest spots. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 24 Oct. 2024 Sure, there are spot treatments with acne-targeting ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, which can help diminish the swelling and size of lesions. Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 14 Oct. 2024 Infused with 2% salicylic acid, Ouai’s Anti-Dandruff Shampoo effectively treats flakes while soothing the scalp with hydrating ingredients. Iman Balagam, Vogue, 16 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for salicylic acid 

Word History

Etymology

French salicylique, from salicyle, the group HOC6H4CO, from salicine salicin + -yle -yl

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of salicylic acid was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near salicylic acid

Cite this Entry

“Salicylic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/salicylic%20acid. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

salicylic acid

noun
sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- How to pronounce salicylic acid (audio)
: a weak acid used especially in the form of salts to relieve pain and fever

Medical Definition

salicylic acid

noun
sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- How to pronounce salicylic acid (audio)
: a crystalline phenolic acid C7H6O3 that is the ortho form of hydroxybenzoic acid and is used especially in making pharmaceuticals and dyes, as an antiseptic and disinfectant especially in treating skin diseases, as a keratolytic agent for skin exfoliation, and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic and in the treatment of rheumatism see aspirin

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