Benefits of Salicylic Acid For AcneSalicylic acid is a crucial component in many nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with minimizing excess oil. It can also aid fading acne scars, although it might take a while.Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. Yet it does so differently.1. Breaks Down