Benzoyl Peroxide vs. Salicylic Acid: Which One Is Better for Acne?

Those with acne-prone skin know that two ingredients are touted as must-haves by the beauty community and experts: benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. These powerhouse ingredients fight acne and are often found in the same products—think creams, cleansers, and spot treatments. But despite their similarities, each ingredient has distinguishable characteristics that make them the key to managing different breakouts.

With an overwhelming amount of acne types and over-the-counter acne treatments, how do you know whether to be team benzoyl peroxide or team salicylic acid? To take the guesswork out of your skincare routine, we asked dermatologists Arielle N.B. Kauvar, MD, and Arielle Nagler, MD, to break down these two powerhouse ingredients, their differences, and how to correctly use them.

What Is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from the bark and leaves of willow and poplar trees. "The combination of increased oil, dead skin cell accumulation that clogs pores, and bacteria contributes to acne. Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, works at dissolving away dead skin cells on the skin surface and in the pores. It also removes surface oil and evens out skin texture," says Kauvar.

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?

"Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent. It helps to kill P. acnes, the bacteria that have been implicated to play a role in the development of acne," says Nagler. "It also helps to prevent small pimples called comedones (comedolytic)."

Applied topically, "It works very quickly, and most people see results in as early as five days," according to Kauvar.

Benzoyl Peroxide vs. Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid clears breakouts by promoting the skin’s exfoliation process, while benzoyl peroxide works by combating acne-causing bacteria. Both are effective, depending on your particular skin and acne type.

When Should You Use Salicylic Acid vs. Benzoyl Peroxide?

Salicylic acid alone should clear out your pores if you have black and whiteheads. But if your acne tends to be inflammatory (think papules and pustules), go for benzoyl peroxide instead, as bacteria causes those breakout types. "Benzoyl peroxide should be used anytime someone is using a topical or oral antibiotic for acne," Nagler adds.

Can I Use Them Together?

Both derms recommend exercising caution when using the products simultaneously. Nagler notes that they can be super drying when used together, and Kauvar says it's best to use them in two separate products so that you can adjust their usage individually to control any irritation.

"A common problem in patients with acne is that they layer on too many products too often, hoping to clear their acne faster, but they slow down their recovery when skin irritation develops," says Kauvar. "It can be irritating, and some people quickly develop redness and irritation."

Which One Is Better?

Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are equally effective acne treatment options when used to treat the corresponding acne type. If you have blackheads and whiteheads, salicylic acid is the better choice. But if you experience inflammatory breakout, such as papules and pustules, benzoyl peroxide is a better option.

How to Use Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid

Before using either ingredient, performing a patch test is best to ensure your skin reacts well to the product and is not allergic. Otherwise, both ingredients can be applied morning or night if you pair them with a strong SPF. "If people are using both, it's best to use one in the morning and one at night," says Nagler, instead of combining.

"Avoid using benzoyl peroxide together with retinoids like retinol and tretinoin or abrasive cleansers or scrubs—this can cause severe skin reactions," says Kauvar. "Avoid using retinoids when using salicylic acid—there is a risk of getting a severe skin allergy."

Kauvar also cautions against using salicylic acid if you are allergic to aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce pain. She says do not apply it to open sores or on skin with eczema.

Potential Side Effects

Dryness and irritation can come with the use of both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. It's important to always moisturize to keep the skin from getting too dry when using these acne-fighting ingredients. If you are using Aczone, a topical medication for acne, avoid benzoyl peroxide, as it can turn your skin orange, according to Nagler.

"[Benzoyl peroxide] can be very drying and some people can be allergic to BP. If someone experiences dryness with BP, there are many moisturizers available that are effective without causing pimples," Nagler adds. Salicylic acid can be irritating in high concentrations; you might benefit from pairing it with other products.

The Takeaway

There's a place in your routine for both salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide if you deal with acne. Using one over the other or both will depend on the type of acne you deal with and your overall skincare goals. If you're not sure where to begin, chat with your dermatologist. Be wary of combining these acne-fighting ingredients together, as well as with other acids or retinol. To prevent dryness and irritation, always moisturize your skin after use.