Acne Salicylic Acid Skin CareSeptember 22, 2023 Salicylic Acid for Acne: How Does It Work? People have been using a form of salicylic acid since ancient civilizations used willow tree bark to soothe various ailments from fevers to aches. When eaten, the compound salicin found in willow tree bark is converted to salicylic acid. byuser