Salicylic acid is a crucial ingredient in several nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads in addition to reducing excess oil. It can additionally help fading acne marks, although it may take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions 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 consequently able to sink deep right into the skin, dissolving excess oil as well as 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 framework, to ensure that dry, scaly skin easily loses, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be gotten rid of.
The issue with blocked pores is that germs, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, producing the ideal environment for acne to thrive in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid permeates deeper into the pores to remove the accumulation, producing an oxygen-rich environment that's aggressive to microorganisms.
Try to find a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, specifically for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, begin with a lower dose and utilize it much less frequently. Always review the label carefully to adhere to application guidelines.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid assists exfoliate the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This allows the dead skin cells to lose even more quickly, which in turn can aid unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective component for treating blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when utilized along with other therapies that work to reduce sebum manufacturing.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic residential properties that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so effective at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to various other non-inflammatory acne.
Just like any therapy, it is very important to always adhere to the directions on your item's packaging. Start with a percentage and slowly raise your use as your skin adjusts to the active ingredient. This will aid prevent any dry skin or sensitivity that might happen. Bear in mind, it can use up to 6-8 weeks to notice a distinction in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you make use of an acne product with salicylic acid, it passes through deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that causes dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it much easier for them to fall away and reduces pore clogs that result in surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red acnes (pimples).
As a result of its capability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests utilizing it in a serum, as opposed to a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its effectiveness. Make certain to read the active ingredient label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or natural items you're utilizing, as some can connect with salicylic acid.
To discover an excellent product, try to find one that contains salicylic acid in a greater focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with another med spa anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which aids avoid the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A favorite of several reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid lotion has maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.
4. Reduces Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing redness & inflammation related to acne blemishes. It additionally softens & loosens dry, flaky skin, which can aid eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & particles that obstruct pores.
While over the counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will be left on your face), it's readily available in higher concentrations with a prescription. A dermatologist can suggest the right focus to treat your acne, based on your skin kind and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're new to skincare items with this active ingredient or have oily skin, try utilizing a reduced focus first. You can slowly develop to a more powerful focus, but it is very important to utilize your product as guided, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's also suggested to utilize your items only in the evening, because salicylic acid can move onto textiles & stain them.
