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salicylic acid
noun
sal·i·cyl·ic acid
ˌsa-lə-ˈsi-lik-
: 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
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
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Word History
Etymology
French salicylique, from salicyle, the group HOC6H4CO, from salicine salicin + -yle -yl
First Known Use
1840, in the meaning defined above
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-
: 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-
: 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
More from Merriam-Webster on salicylic acid
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about salicylic acid
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