Benzoyl Peroxide & Salicylic Acid: A Guide

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Everyone deals with a pimple here and there—yes, even the glowiest of us. While occasional blemishes are normal, the ingredients we reach for can make all the difference in how skin looks and feels. Two of the most talked-about names in skincare are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.

These ingredients have been go-to solutions for visibly clearer-looking skin, but they’re not one-size-fits-all, and they’re definitely not twins. In this guide, we’re breaking down what each one does, when to use them, and how to make choices that work for your skin (and your skincare goals).

Key takeaways

Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are both used to address visible blemishes, but they work differently—benzoyl peroxide purifies the skin and minimizes bacteria, while salicylic acid exfoliates and clears pores.

Using both ingredients at the same time can lead to irritation, so it’s best to alternate their use or apply them at different times of day, depending on your skin’s tolerance.

Benzoyl peroxide is typically recommended for more active breakouts, while salicylic acid is ideal for managing clogged pores and improving overall texture.

Clarins does not use benzoyl peroxide in its products, but salicylic acid is included in select formulas known for their gentle, effective results.

Supporting active ingredients with hydration and SPF is essential, especially when introducing exfoliants or purifying agents into your routine.

What is benzoyl peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide is an ingredient commonly used in skincare to help reduce visible blemishes and purify the skin’s surface. It works by minimizing excess oil and helping to keep pores clear, making it a popular choice for those experiencing frequent breakouts.

You’ll usually find benzoyl peroxide in cleansers, spot treatments, and gels made for more visible breakouts. Because it can be strong, it’s best suited for skin that isn’t easily irritated. It’s not uncommon to notice some dryness or flaking, especially when you first start using it.

If you’re considering benzoyl peroxide as part of your skincare mix, it’s important to go slow and listen to your skin. And always follow up with a comforting moisturizer (your skin barrier will thank you).

What is salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its ability to gently exfoliate and visibly clear clogged pores. Originally derived from willow bark, this ingredient is well-regarded for helping lift away dead skin cells from the skin's surface, supporting a visibly smoother, more refined texture.

Because it’s oil-soluble, salicylic acid can work within the pore lining, making it especially effective in acne treatment products. It’s frequently found in formulas designed for oily or combination skin, and can help reduce the appearance of blemishes while promoting a more balanced complexion.

Salicylic acid is often used in toners, cleansers, serums, and targeted treatments. Many people incorporate it into their daily routine, although those with dry or sensitive skin may benefit from using it less frequently.

Pairing salicylic acid with replenishing and hydrating ingredients is essential to maintaining skin comfort and overall glow. It works best when balanced within a thoughtful routine that supports the skin’s natural barrier while encouraging visible clarity.

How do benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid work for skin?

Though benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are often grouped together in skincare conversations, they function quite differently and understanding how each one works can help you make more informed decisions about your routine.

The science behind salicylic acid

Salicylic acid, on the other hand, is a chemical exfoliant that helps smooth skin by dissolving the buildup of dead skin cells. Its oil-soluble structure allows it to work within the pores, making it especially effective for refining skin texture and reducing the look of congestion. Over time, salicylic acid can also help visibly improve the clarity and tone of the skin.

Both ingredients can be beneficial when used correctly but layering them together can be too much for some skin types. Since both are active ingredients that encourage exfoliation or purification, using them simultaneously may lead to dryness, sensitivity, or visible irritation.

If you’re incorporating either ingredient into your routine, it’s best to start slowly—alternate their use, apply during different parts of the day, or choose one based on your current skin concerns. And always follow up with hydration and sun protection to help maintain skin comfort and balance.

What is the difference between benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid?

While benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are often mentioned in the same breath, they serve very different purposes in skincare. Choosing the right one depends on your skin’s unique needs.

Benzoyl peroxide is known for its purifying action. It works by reducing surface oil and minimizing bacteria on the skin, making it particularly effective for visibly active breakouts. You’ll typically find it in leave-on treatments or cleansers designed to target spots and blemishes quickly. However, its strength may cause dryness or visible flaking, especially for those with more delicate skin.

On the other hand, salicylic acid focuses on exfoliation. It helps remove dead skin cells and clears out pores, reducing the look of congestion and supporting a smoother, more even skin texture over time. This makes it an excellent option for those managing clogged pores or excess oil, without the same drying effect that benzoyl peroxide might bring.

Another key difference is usage compatibility. Because both are considered active ingredients, using them at the same time can lead to irritation for many skin types. Most skincare experts recommend alternating the two rather than layering or choosing one that best aligns with your goals, whether that’s refining texture or targeting visible blemishes.

Ultimately, both ingredients can play a role in a healthy skincare routine, but they’re not interchangeable. The best results come from understanding their strengths, knowing your skin, and incorporating complementary ingredients that nourish and protect.

Do Clarins products feature salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide?

At Clarins, we take a purposeful approach to every formula, prioritizing ingredients that care for skin while delivering visible results. We choose to use salicylic acid over benzoyl peroxide in select skincare formulas, in part due to its gentle exfoliating properties and ability to promote a visibly smoother, more refined complexion.

Our salicylic acid skincare products are developed with the same attention to detail you’ll find across the entire Clarins collection—powered by plant-based ingredients, backed by over 70 years of skincare expertise, and designed to create a sensorial experience with every application. If you’re exploring how to incorporate targeted ingredients into your routine, Clarins offers a thoughtful way to support visibly healthy, radiant-looking skin, without compromising comfort or care.

Frequently asked questions

Can you use benzoyl peroxide with salicylic acid?

Technically, yes, but we wouldn’t recommend it. Both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are considered active ingredients, and using them together can lead to visible dryness, irritation, or sensitivity. If you’d like to incorporate both into your routine, consider alternating them on different days or using one in the morning and the other at night. The key is to listen to your skin and maintain balance with hydrating and soothing products. When in doubt, less is more—especially when working with powerful ingredients.

Is benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid better for acne?

That depends on your skin’s needs. Benzoyl peroxide is often recommended for more visible breakouts, as it helps reduce surface oil and minimizes bacteria on the skin. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, works by exfoliating and clearing out clogged pores, making it ideal for those with congestion or uneven skin texture. Both ingredients can support visibly clearer skin, but choosing the right one comes down to how your skin reacts and what kind of blemishes you’re managing. Many people see results with salicylic acid as a more gentle, daily-use option.

How do you use benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid together?

If your skin can tolerate both, you can use them in the same routine—just not at the same time. For example, you might apply salicylic acid in the morning and benzoyl peroxide at night. Another option is to alternate days to reduce the risk of dryness or irritation. Always follow each application with a replenishing moisturizer and don’t skip sun protection, as both ingredients can increase sensitivity to sunlight. As always, introduce one product at a time so you can understand how your skin responds.

What is the difference between benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid?

The key difference lies in how they function. Benzoyl peroxide helps reduce visible breakouts by purifying the skin and minimizing surface bacteria. It’s typically used as a spot treatment or in cleansers. Salicylic acid, in contrast, gently exfoliates the skin and clears out pores, which can reduce the appearance of congestion and promote smoother texture. Benzoyl peroxide tends to act more quickly but can be drying, while salicylic acid is often preferred for long-term clarity and more frequent use.