Benefits of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is an essential ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads as well as reducing excess oil. It can additionally aid fading acne marks, although it might take a while.


Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by disconnecting skin pores. However it does so in different ways.

1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble and consequently able to sink deep into the skin, liquifying excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an effective anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that creates part of our skin structure, so that dry, scaly skin conveniently sheds, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.

The problem with clogged pores is that bacteria, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, developing the excellent setting for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid permeates deeper right into the pores to eliminate the accumulation, producing an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's hostile to bacteria.

Try to find a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or greater, especially for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, begin with a lower dosage and utilize it less commonly. Always check out the tag thoroughly to adhere to application instructions.

2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This allows the dead skin cells to drop even more easily, which in turn can aid unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective component for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, especially when used along with other therapies that function to decrease sebum production.

In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so reliable at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to various other non-inflammatory acne.

Just like any type of treatment, it is essential to always comply with the directions on your item's product packaging. Start with a small amount and gradually boost your usage as your skin acclimates to the component. This will aid prevent any kind of dry skin or sensitivity that might occur. Keep in mind, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to observe a difference in your acne.

3. Removes Pores
When you use an acne product with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep into your pores and loosens the "adhesive" that causes dead skin cells to amalgamate together. This makes it simpler for them to fall away and decreases pore obstructions that cause surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red acnes (acnes).

Because of its ability to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends using it in a lotion, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its efficiency. Make sure to check out the ingredient tag meticulously and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medicines you take or herbal items you're using, as some can engage with salicylic acid.

To discover a good item, try to find one which contains salicylic acid in a higher concentration-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which assists prevent the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of many customers with delicate skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid product consists of maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.

4. Minimizes Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing redness & irritability associated with acne blemishes. It likewise softens & loosens completely dry, scaly skin, which can assist get rid of dead skin cells, flakes & particles that clog pores.

While non-prescription concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will certainly be left on your face), it's offered in higher concentrations via a prescription. A skin specialist can advise the correct focus to treat your acne, based on your skin type and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.

If you're new to skincare items with this ingredient or have oily skin, try utilizing a lower focus initially. You can progressively work up to a stronger focus, yet it's important to use your item as guided, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's likewise advised to use your items just in the evening, since salicylic acid can transfer onto fabrics & laser hair removal near me stain them.