Salicylic acid peels are safe and have few side effects, especially if they’re done by a skin doctor. If you have ongoing skin problems, talk to your doctor about having a chemical peel.

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are two popular skin care ingredients. They’re available in many over-the-counter (OTC) products, including facial cleansers, serums, and toners. Both ...

Salicylic acid may produce mild side effects, such as skin irritation or peeling. If people experience more severe side effects, they should stop using the product and contact their doctor.