SkinMedica Acne Clarifying Treatment Salicylic Acid 20 mg/mL Lotion
🆔 Identity & classification
Where does this data come from?
🏷️ RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Salicylic acid and derivatives class.
Where does this data come from?
🏭 Manufacturer & labeler
Where does this data come from?
🩺 Clinical
Topical salicylic acid is used to help clear and prevent pimples and skin blemishes in people who have acne. Topical salicylic acid is also used to treat skin conditions that involve scaling or overgrowth of skin cells such as psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form on some areas of the body), ichthyoses (inborn conditions that cause skin dryness and scaling), dandruff, corns, calluses, and warts on the hands or feet. Topical salicylic acid should not be used to treat genital warts, warts on the face, warts with hair growing from them, warts in the nose or mouth, moles, or b...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- It's designed to treat acne. Salicylic acid helps by loosening and removing dead skin cells that clog pores — the buildup that leads to breakouts. The multi-step system on this lab...
- What is this salicylic acid product actually supposed to do for my skin?
- Some mild tingling, stinging, and peeling is actually expected — that's the salicylic acid doing its job by clearing away dead skin cells. But if the burning or peeling feels exces...
- My skin feels like it's burning and peeling. Is that normal?
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Where does this data come from?
Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.
-
UNII 9E8X80D2L0
A synthetic form of vitamin E used as an antioxidant and preservative in medications. It helps prevent the active ingredients from degrading when exposed to oxygen or light.
-
UNII LU49E6626Q
A synthetic organic compound used as a pH buffer and neutralizing agent in medicines. It helps maintain the proper acidity level in liquid formulations to improve stability and comfort.
-
UNII 1QR1QRA9BU
A fatty alcohol derived from peanut oil or made synthetically. It serves as an emollient and thickener in creams and ointments, helping create smooth texture and improve product consistency.
-
UNII 6JVW35JOOJ
Arachidyl glucoside is a plant-derived emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent made from arachidyl alcohol and glucose. It helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together in formulations and improves product texture and spreadability.
-
UNII 347Q89U4M5
Baicalin is a plant-derived compound from skullcap root used as a natural colorant and potential antioxidant ingredient in some formulations. It may help preserve the product's stability and color appearance.
-
UNII OT12HJU3AR
A plant-derived compound used as a skin-conditioning agent and antioxidant in topical formulations. It helps stabilize the product and may improve skin feel and texture in creams or lotions.
-
UNII 9G1OE216XY
Docosanol is a waxy, fatty alcohol derived from plant sources. It acts as an emollient and thickener in topical medicines, helping to soften the skin and improve product texture and stability.
-
UNII 3XUS85K0RA
Butylene glycol is a clear liquid derived from petroleum or plants that acts as a humectant, solvent, and preservative booster in medicines. It helps keep formulations stable, dissolve active ingredients, and maintain moisture in topical products.
-
UNII 8TY5YO42NJ
Capryloyl glycine is a mild, skin-conditioning ingredient made from a natural fatty acid and the amino acid glycine. In medicines, it acts as a surfactant and preservative booster, helping the product spread evenly and resist contamination.
-
UNII 4YS74Q4G4J
A plant extract from Centella asiatica containing natural compounds called triterpenoids. It's used as an active ingredient in some formulations for its purported skin-supporting properties, though it functions as a botanical additive rather than a structural component of the medicine.
-
UNII L36BM7DG2T
A foaming and cleansing agent derived from coconut oil. Used in topical medicines as a surfactant to help distribute active ingredients evenly and improve how the product feels on skin.
-
UNII I8LHQ0D645
Dextran 1 is a sugar-based polymer made from bacteria. In medicines, it acts as a binder and filler to hold tablet ingredients together and add bulk to the formulation.
-
UNII RRL7C51WPD
A synthetic compound made from fatty acids and malic acid. It acts as an emulsifier and surfactant to help mix oils and water together in the formula, improving texture and stability.
-
UNII 7FLD91C86K
Edetate disodium is a chemical compound that binds and removes certain metal ions. In medicines, it acts as a preservative and stabilizer by preventing metals like calcium from interfering with the product's shelf life and consistency.
-
UNII 147D247K3P
Ethylhexylglycerin is a synthetic preservative used to prevent bacteria and mold from growing in medicines and personal care products. It helps keep the product safe and stable throughout its shelf life.
-
UNII PDC6A3C0OX
Glycerin is a clear, thick liquid derived from plant oils or fats. It acts as a humectant to retain moisture, a sweetener, and a solvent in medications.
-
UNII M6QU9ZUH2X
A natural essential oil derived from the Manuka tree, used in medicines as a fragrance, flavor enhancer, and preservative to improve product appeal and shelf stability.
-
UNII J4XF5T6418
A plant extract from magnolia bark used in medicines as a natural flavoring agent and to add mild color. It may also help preserve the product's stability.
-
UNII EG97988M5Q
A synthetic plastic polymer that forms a three-dimensional network. It's used as a coating on tablets and capsules to control how fast the medicine releases into the body, or as a binder to hold pill ingredients together.
-
UNII K17762966S
A natural plant extract from the narcissus bulb used as a flavoring or fragrance ingredient in some medicines. It may help improve taste or smell of the product.
-
UNII 25X51I8RD4
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, a water-soluble nutrient. In medicines, it may be added as a nutritional supplement or to support skin health, though its primary role here is as an active ingredient rather than a traditional inactive filler.
-
UNII CS4U38E731
A plant-derived oil from nigella sativa seeds, used as a carrier and emollient in formulations. It helps dissolve or suspend active ingredients and improves product texture and absorption.
-
UNII 55HZC7YQA7
A synthetic peptide (chain of amino acids) derived from palmitic acid. It's used as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent to help soften and smooth the product's texture and improve how it spreads on skin.
-
UNII HIE492ZZ3T
Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic preservative and antimicrobial agent used to prevent bacterial and fungal growth in medicines and cosmetic products, extending shelf life and maintaining product safety.
-
UNII GM2TDN9DZI
A juice extract from physalis pubescens fruit, a plant in the nightshade family. It's used as a flavoring agent and natural coloring ingredient in medicines.
-
UNII FS2D4T67EA
Polyacrylate-13 is a synthetic polymer used as a film-coating agent. It forms a protective layer around tablets or capsules to control how quickly the medicine dissolves and is absorbed in the body.
-
UNII 5XB3A63Y52
A synthetic rubber polymer used as a glidant and lubricant in tablet and capsule formulations. It reduces friction between particles and equipment surfaces, helping medicines flow smoothly during manufacturing and preventing sticking.
-
UNII 7T1F30V5YH
A synthetic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. It helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together and keeps them from separating in liquid formulations.
-
UNII 1VPU26JZZ4
Potassium sorbate is a salt derived from sorbic acid, a naturally occurring preservative. It prevents growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria, extending the medicine's shelf life.
-
UNII 5965N8W85T
Propanediol is a clear liquid organic compound derived from vegetable sources or synthesized chemically. It acts as a humectant to retain moisture, a solvent to dissolve active ingredients, and a preservative booster in liquid medications and supplements.
-
UNII W8K377W98I
A mixture of sugars made by rearranging glucose molecules. It acts as a sweetener and filler to improve taste and add bulk to the medicine while helping it hold together.
-
UNII FSW2K9B9N5
A mild cleansing agent derived from oat amino acids and coconut oil. It's used in topical products as an emulsifier and surfactant to help blend oil and water ingredients together and improve how the product spreads on skin.
-
UNII G6EP177239
A waxy substance made from palm oil that has been chemically modified and combined with polyethylene glycol. It acts as an emulsifier and solubilizer to help mix oil and water-based ingredients and improve how the medicine dissolves and is absorbed.
-
UNII N757YEZ18Q
A plant oil derived from Hydnocarpus kurzii seeds, used as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent in topical formulations. It helps soften and smooth the product's texture while improving how the medicine spreads on skin.
-
UNII R0ZB2556P8
Tocopherol is a form of vitamin E derived from plant oils. It acts as an antioxidant in medicines to prevent oils and fats from breaking down and spoiling during storage.
-
UNII AZQ08K38Z1
A synthetic oily liquid derived from salicylic acid. It works as an emollient and penetration enhancer in topical formulations, helping active ingredients absorb into skin while conditioning and softening the application area.
-
UNII 059QF0KO0R
Water is a liquid solvent that dissolves and mixes ingredients together in liquid medicines, syrups, and injections. It helps distribute the active drug evenly throughout the product.
-
UNII TTV12P4NEE
Xanthan gum is a thickening and stabilizing ingredient made from fermented corn or other sugars. It's added to medicines to improve texture, prevent separation of liquids and solids, and help the product stay consistent.
38 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
Label-section wording can be broader than the structured product block and may mention additional formulation ingredients.
Where does this data come from?
ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.Inactive ingredient FAQ
Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Can inactive ingredients matter?
💲 Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per g | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | Not in the retail survey — common for institutional, discontinued, or low-volume packs. | |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | No recent Medicaid claims on file for this NDC — rare and low-volume NDCs are suppressed in the public data. | |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · quarterly | No Part D plan price is available for this NDC in our data. | |
Where does this data come from?
🔁 Therapeutic equivalents
Where does this data come from?
⏳ Availability & generic status
We did not find an FDA-approved generic match for this exact strength, form and route.
Where does this data come from?
📊 Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)
🔬 Reported adverse events (FAERS)
Top reported reactions
Age at onset
Reporter sex
Serious outcomes
Where does this data come from?
📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00023-1230-01 You're viewing this | 1 TUBE in 1 CARTON (0023-1230-01) / 60 mL in 1 TUBE | 2024-04-09 | Active |
🧭 About this NDC listing & data coverage
What data is (and isn’t) available for this NDC — tap to expand
| NDC identity (package / product / labeler codes) | ✓ Available |
| Labeler | ✓ Available |
| Product & package description | ✓ Available |
| Marketing category & status | ✓ Available |
| Active ingredient / dosage form / route | ✓ Available |
| FDA label (SPL via DailyMed) | ✓ Available |
| Package photos | ✓ Available |
| Inactive ingredients (structured) | ✓ Available |
| NADAC pharmacy acquisition price (CMS) | — Not published for this NDC CMS publishes NADAC only for NDCs reported in its retail-pharmacy survey. |
| Orange Book / therapeutic-equivalence data | — Not published for this NDC Applies only to products approved under an NDA/ANDA; many listings are out of scope. |
| HCPCS J-code billing crosswalk | — Not published for this NDC Most self-administered / retail products have no J-code — that is normal. |
| Medicaid utilization (CMS SDUD) | — Not published for this NDC CMS reports utilization only for NDCs with Medicaid claims above its privacy threshold. |
Questions about this listing
Is this NDC FDA-approved?
Why is there no price listed?
Is the NDC printed on the package the same as the 11-digit billing NDC?
What do the three segments of this NDC mean?
Is this package still being marketed?
Who lists this product with the FDA?
Do I need a prescription for this product?
Where does this data come from?
📄 FDA label — Drug Facts FDA SPL
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
U ses For the treatment of acne.
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
Directions Clean the skin thoroughly before applying this product. Cover the entire affected area with a thin layer one to three times daily. Because excessive drying of the skin may occur, start with one application daily, then gradually increase to two times daily if needed or as directed by a doctor.
If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day. Sensitivity Test for a New User . Apply product sparingly to one or two small affected areas during the first 3 days.
If no discomfort occurs, follow the directions stated above.
⚠️ Warnings ▾
Warnings For external use only. When using this product : - skin irritation and dryness is more likely to occur if you use another topical acne medication at the same time. If irritation occurs, only use one topical acne medication at a time. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
🧪 Active Ingredient ▾
Active Ingredient Salicylic Acid 2%
🧪 Inactive Ingredients ▾
Inactive Ingredients Water, Tridecyl Salicylate, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Propanediol, Arachidyl Alcohol, Niacinamide, Di‐C12‐13 Alkyl Malate, Glycerin, Polyacrylate‐13, Butylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Bakuchiol, Baicalin, Potassium Lauroyl Wheat Amino Acids, Palmitoyl Tripeptide‐8, Centella Asiatica Extract, Magnolia Grandiflora Bark Extract, Physalis Pubescens Fruit Juice, Narcissus Tazetta Bulb Extract, Taraktogenos Kurzii Seed Oil, Nigella Sativa Seed Oil, Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil, Saccharide Isomerate, Palm Glycerides, Capryloyl Glycine, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, Polysorbate 20, Arachidyl Glucoside, Polyisobutene, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Dextran, Xanthan Gum, Aminomethyl Propanol, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA
🎯 Purpose ▾
Purpose Acne Treatment