This study demonstrated that twice daily application of 2% salicylic acid lotion impregnated into pads was significantly better than placebo in mild to moderate acne. Significant benefit from the active therapy was evident at 4, 8 and 12 weeks when total lesion counts were assessed. There was a significant benefit from the active therapy over placebo in noninflamed lesions at 8 and 12 weeks and inflamed lesions at 12 weeks. These results fit with the suggestion that salicylic acid has a primary affect on comedogenesis.