Salicylic acid is a vital active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with decreasing excess oil. It can also aid fading acne scars, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. But it does so in a different way.
1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble and for that reason able to sink deep into the skin, dissolving excess oil as well as dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an effective anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the protein that develops part of our skin structure, to make sure that dry, flaky skin quickly drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be eliminated.
The issue with blocked pores is that bacteria, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, developing the best atmosphere for acne to flourish in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid passes through much deeper into the pores to get rid of the accumulation, creating an oxygen-rich setting that's hostile to bacteria.
Seek a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or greater, particularly for oily skin types. If you have delicate or completely dry skin, begin with a reduced dose and utilize it much less typically. Always read the tag meticulously to comply with application instructions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This permits the dead skin cells to drop more easily, which subsequently can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when utilized together with other treatments that work to lower sebum production.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so reliable at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, along with various other non-inflammatory acne.
Just like any type of treatment, it's important to always comply with the instructions on your item's product packaging. Beginning with a small amount and gradually increase your usage as your skin acclimates to the ingredient. This will help avoid any dryness or sensitivity that may take place. Bear in mind, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to observe a difference in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you use an acne product with salicylic acid, it passes through deep into your pores and loosens up the "adhesive" that creates dead skin cells to integrate with each other. This makes it less complicated for them to fall away and minimizes pore blockages that lead to surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red pimples (acnes).
Due to its ability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a lotion, rather than a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its performance. Make sure to read the active ingredient label meticulously and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medicines you take or herbal products you're making use of, as some can communicate with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent product, seek one that contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that integrates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps protect against the drying results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of customers with delicate skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid lotion consists of maltobionic acid to exfoliate without irritating the skin.
4. Decreases Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing redness & inflammation associated with acne imperfections. It additionally softens & loosens completely dry, flaky skin, which can help eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & particles that block pores.
While non-prescription concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater concentrations with a prescription. A skin doctor can recommend the right concentration 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 skin care items with this active ingredient or have oily skin, try utilizing a reduced focus first. You can progressively develop to a stronger focus, yet it's important to utilize your product as guided, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's likewise advised to use acne facial your items just in the evening, because salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & discolor them.
