Salicylic Acid

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Salicylic acid is an organic compound that is a benzoic acid with a hydroxyl group. It is derived from wintergreen leaves and can also be made synthetically. Salicylic acid can be found in many OTC products as it is known for treating acne and other skin issues by breaking down thick layers of dead skin. It is also found in many medications because it has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Because salicylic acid can be an irritant to the respiratory tract, GI tract, skin, etc. the FDA does limit the amount of salicylic acid in products. HPLC can be used to determine if there are salicylic acid impurities in a product.

Consumer products that commonly contain salicylic acid

  • Acne treatments
  • Exfoliating scrubs
  • Wart removers

Instruments used to detect, measure, and analyze salicyclic acid in consumer products

  • HPLC with UV detection
  • Spectrophotometry (colorimetric methods)
  • GC-MS

Testing salicylic acid with Microchem

Microchem tests personal care products, OTC drugs, and dietary supplements for the strength and purity of salicylic acid. Contact the lab today for a free consultation or quote.

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Salicylic Acid

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