I’ve asked some of my cousins who used this at one point. They said that it was effective in a way at least based on how they used it. Other statements posted in other sites also states that this is effective because it loosens clogged pores, thus helps prevent pimples from forming. This is also an active ingredient in some cleansers, astringents and other facial products. Salicylic acid is effective in eliminating whiteheads and blackheads.