2hüdroksübensoehappe

2-Hydroxybenzoic acid, also known as salicylic acid, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C7H6O3. It is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) and is found naturally in willow bark. Salicylic acid is a white, crystalline solid that is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether.

Historically, salicylic acid was derived from the bark of willow trees and used for its medicinal properties. It was a common remedy for pain and fever long before its chemical structure was understood. The isolation of salicylic acid from willow bark was achieved in the 19th century, paving the way for its synthesis and widespread use.

In modern applications, salicylic acid is widely used in dermatology for its keratolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a key ingredient in many over-the-counter and prescription treatments for acne, psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions. It works by helping to shed dead skin cells and reducing redness and swelling. Beyond skincare, salicylic acid is also a precursor for the synthesis of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), a widely used pain reliever and fever reducer. Its chemical versatility also lends itself to use in some industrial processes.