Is a Salicylic Acid Peel Safe?

Yes, salicylic acid peels are indeed safe. It is especially good as an acne treatment. There are certain individuals that should avoid having the treatment, as it is not considered safe:Breast feeding or pregnant womenVery young childrenIt is important to make sure that the peel is being administered by a professional with the appropriate experience. 

All chemical peels have potential risks.  As chemical peels go, a 20% salicylic acid peel is a low risk peel.  One has to decide if the risk out weighs the benefit.  Salicylic acid peels are great for acne, fine lines, blemishes, sun damage, melasma, razor bumps or to just achieve a more beautiful, glowing complexion.  The risks of a salicylic acid peel are burn (if you have any dermatitis or have recently used an exfoliating agent at the time of the peel), infection, scar (very unlikely), discoloration, peeling and stinging.  That being said, a 20% salicylic acid peel is one of the most popular peels in my practice--particularly with the acne patients.  A salicylic acid peel can been done on patients of all skin colors and they usually get excellent results.  As a side note, as salicylic acid is related to aspirin, avoid the peel if you are aspirin or salicylic acid allergic.