What is salicylic acid and is it only for acne?

Salicylic acid is a BHA that is oil-soluble, enabling it to penetrate pores and exfoliate from the inside out. While it is famous for treating acne by clearing blocked pores, it also reduces blackheads, controls oil, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties. It is useful for anyone with oily, congested, or combination skin, not just those with active breakouts. It can be drying at higher concentrations.