Salicylic acid is a multifunctional skin savior—try these face washes for a smoother, healthier complexion. A salicylic acid cleanser is one of those multitasking skincare products that people swear by. Whether you’re looking for one of the best acne treatments, a solution for clogged pores, or a tried and true face exfoliator to buff away dry, flaky skin, a face wash with salicylic acid can help you achieve the glowing, healthy skin you covet. “Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) in the category of active ingredients called salicylates, derived from willow bark,” says Ava Shamban, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, CA. As opposed to alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that simply exfoliate the skin’s surface layer, BHAs like salicylic acid penetrate through oil and work hard to unclog pores. “It gets to work like a little jackhammer,” Dr. Shamban adds, breaking down dead skin cells and dissolving impurities that build up and cause breakouts. Its exfoliating properties can also help manage psoriasis, even skin tone, and combat signs of aging by reducing hyper-pigmentation and photodamage. If you’ve ever had acne, chances are you’ve used something that contains salicylic acid before. It’s found in spot treatments, serums, and even moisturizers, so why use it in a cleanser? “It’s short contact,” says Mona Gohara, M.D., a CT-based board-certified dermatologist and member of Prevention’s Medical Review Board. When you rinse off the active ingredient rather than leaving it on long-term, it can help mitigate irritation and dryness. Also, unlike topical treatments, when you rinse the cleanser, you’re “literally removing” the top layer of dead skin cells, which is a plus, adds Dr. Shamban. But if you have very dry, easily inflamed skin, salicylic acid—even in cleanser form—may not be for you. Dr. Gohara warns that those with eczema and rosacea should tread lightly with the ingredient, and Orit Markowitz, M.D., F.A.A.D., CEO and Founder of OptiSkin, says that those with cystic, under-the-skin breakouts may not see clearer skin after using it. However, those with oily, breakout-prone skin should definitely give it a try with the below derm-approved options.