Advantages of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a key component in several nonprescription acne therapies. It runs out blackheads and whiteheads in addition to minimizing excess oil. It can also aid fading acne scars, although it may take a while.


Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by disconnecting skin pores. Yet 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 therefore able to sink deep right into the skin, liquifying excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an efficient anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the protein that creates part of our skin framework, so that dry, scaly skin easily sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.

The problem with clogged pores is that germs, dust and dead skin cells are entraped, creating the perfect environment for acne to flourish in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates deeper right into the pores to remove the accumulation, creating an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's hostile to germs.

Seek a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or higher, especially for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or completely dry skin, start with a lower dosage and use it much less usually. Always read the label thoroughly to comply with application directions.

2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid assists exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This permits the dead skin cells to lose more quickly, which consequently can aid unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, especially when used along with various other therapies that work to decrease sebum production.

In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic homes that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so effective at treating blackheads and whiteheads, as well as other non-inflammatory acne.

As with any treatment, it's important to always follow the directions on your item's packaging. Start with a small amount and progressively boost your use as your skin adapts to the ingredient. This will certainly aid stay clear of any type of dryness or level of sensitivity that might happen. Remember, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to discover a difference in your acne.

3. Clears Pores
When you make use of an acne product with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep right into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that causes dead skin cells to integrate with each other. This makes it much easier for them to fall away and lowers pore clogs that result in superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red acnes (acnes).

As a result of its ability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends using it in a product, rather than a cleanser or body laundry, to optimize its effectiveness. Make sure to read the component tag carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or herbal products you're using, as some can engage with salicylic acid.

To locate a good product, try to find one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or greater-- or that combines it with one more anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which assists prevent the drying impacts of the salicylic acid. A fave of many customers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid product includes maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.

4. Minimizes Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce inflammation & irritability associated with acne blemishes. It additionally softens & loosens completely dry, scaly skin, which can assist get rid of dead skin cells, flakes & debris that block pores.

While over-the-counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will be left on your face), it's readily available in higher concentrations spa via a prescription. A dermatologist can suggest the proper concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin kind and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.

If you're new to skin care items with this ingredient or have oily skin, try making use of a lower concentration initially. You can gradually develop to a stronger concentration, however it's important to use your product as routed, i.e., once a day. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's additionally recommended to use your items just in the evening, because salicylic acid can move onto textiles & stain them.