Bliss of Earth salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid found in many plants but its most well know source is white willow or salix alba from which it's name is derived. Topically Salicylic acid is most commonly found in products used to combat acne and other skin conditions such as dandruff. It acts as a comdeolytic and bacteriostatic agent meaning it stimulates the shedding off dead skin cells unclogs pores and inhibits the growth of potentially acne-causing bacteria.