This review of 49 clinical trials found that salicylic acid works for acne, but the research doesn't tell us how well it compares to other treatments—most studies were small and tested it against different products, making head-to-head comparisons difficult. The good news: it was generally safe with mild side effects. The reality: we need better quality studies to know if it's truly your best option.

Researchers reviewed 49 randomized controlled trials involving 3,880 people (mostly women aged 12-30 with mild to moderate acne) conducted in clinics and hospitals across Europe, Asia, and the USA. Treatment lasted anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 years.

Funding not disclosed in abstract