You’ve spent years perfecting your makeup and skincare routine only to discover you have a salicylate sensitivity…now what!?

While safe for most people, those with a salicylate sensitivity need to limit their exposure to the pervasive chemical, found in everything from fruits and vegetables to medicines and yes, makeup, so as not to elicit a reaction. For makeup and skincare aficionados alike, many of the products we’re used to applying to our skin contain salicylates, posing a problem for the highly sensitive. Salicylates can be absorbed through the skin, leading to reactions not only on the skin but in different body systems (e.g gastrointestinal, nervous, respiratory, etc.) depending on where your target problem lies. Fortunately, there is now a range of wonderful salicylate-free cosmetics available to purchase, you just have to know where to look.

Eager to build my own salicylate-free product inventory, I conducted a deep dive into the best salicylate-free makeup products out there. Below you’ll find a list of the most recommended for each cosmetic category, including an unscented candle and bath powder recommendation, because, you know, treat yo self!

Hopefully, the list provides a little help to those searching for makeup and skincare alternatives. Also, if you have any of your own salicylate-free makeup recommendations, please feel free to share below.

Note: if you’re in Australia, please see Australia specific version.

Brigid xx

Salicylate-Free Makeup and Skincare List