Salicylic Acid Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis growing at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2025 to 2030
The global salicylic acid market size was valued at USD 547.5 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 880.4 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2025 to 2030. The market growth can be attributed to the increasing applications of salicylic acid in industries such as pharmaceuticals, skincare, and food preservatives.
Key Market Trends & Insights
- Europe salicylic acid market dominated the market and accounted for the revenue share of 33.5% in 2024.
- The U.S. salicylic acid market dominated North America with the largest revenue share in 2024.
- Based on application, the pharmaceutical segment accounted for the largest market share of 45.0% in 2024.
Market Size & Forecast
- 2024 Market Size: USD 547.5 Million
- 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 880.4 Million
- CAGR (2025-2030): 8.2%
- Europe: Largest market in 2024
- Asia Pacific: Fastest growing market
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Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and exfoliating properties, which drives its uses in acne treatments, anti-dandruff shampoos, and other skincare products. The growing prevalence of dermatological conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, calluses, corns, keratosis pilaris, and warts in adolescents and young adults is a significant demand driver for this market. According to the information published by the American Academy of Dermatology Association, acne remains one of the most widespread skin conditions, impacting around 50 million individuals in the U.S. The significant benefits of salicylic acid in treating acne are expected to drive further demand in the market.
In addition, salicylic acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry to manufacture various drugs, such as aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). This further boosts its demand in the industry, especially in regions with high geriatric populations, where the need for pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs is high. According to the information published by the World Health Organization in October 2024, approximately one in every six people is estimated to be 60 and above by 2030. This rising proportion of the geriatric population is further expected to drive demand for salicylic acid in the pharmaceutical industry and drive market growth.
In the food and preservatives sector, salicylic acid can help inhibit bacterial growth, improve shelf stability, and maintain food safety, especially in processed products. Its preservative properties can extend freshness and ensure the quality of packaged foods. The increasing demand for processed and convenient food due to changing lifestyles further drives the demand for salicylic acid.
Application Insights
The pharmaceutical segment accounted for the largest market share of 45.0% in 2024 attributed to the increasing applications of salicylic acid in the development of various pain management medicines. The companies are also developing different salicylic acid formulations for pharmaceutical use. For instance, in June 2024, Flychem announced the launch of its high purity encapsulated salicylic acid, KOSAVA that can be used for pharmaceutical formulations.
The cosmetics segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period from 2024 to 2030. Salicylic acid is considered effective in managing acne and other common dermatological issues, which has led to its increased use in facial cleansers, serums, toners, sprays, and other products, especially in anti-acne and anti-aging product lines, driving the segment growth. For instance, in February 2024, the PanOxyl brand of Crown Laboratories, Inc. announced the launch of its Acne Banishing Body Spray with 2% Salicylic Acid, which can help unclog pores and clear blemishes. Such increasing applications of salicylic acid in the cosmetics industry are expected to boost the segment growth over the forecast period.
