Salicylic acid is a key active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with reducing excess oil. It can likewise aid fading acne scars, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. But it does so differently.
1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble and therefore able to sink deep into the skin, liquifying excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that develops part of our skin structure, so that dry, flaky skin conveniently drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The trouble with clogged up pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are entraped, developing the best 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 atmosphere that's hostile to microorganisms.
Seek a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or higher, especially for oily skin kinds. If you have delicate or dry skin, begin with a reduced dose and use it much less commonly. 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 assist unclog pores. This is what makes it such a powerful active ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, especially when made use of together with other therapies that work to reduce sebum manufacturing.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at treating blackheads and whiteheads, along with other non-inflammatory acne.
As with any type of treatment, it's important to constantly comply with the directions on your item's product 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 creates dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it much easier for them to fall away and reduces pore obstructions that lead to shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red acnes (pimples).
Due to its ability to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a serum, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to maximize its performance. Be sure to review the ingredient tag carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medicines you take or herbal products you're lactic acid making use of, as some can communicate with salicylic acid.
To locate a good item, look for one which contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that combines it with one more anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps stop the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A favorite of several reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid lotion has maltobionic acid to exfoliate without irritating the skin.
4. Lowers Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce soreness & irritation connected with acne imperfections. It also 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 products that will certainly be left on your face), it's available in higher focus via a prescription. A dermatologist can suggest the proper 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 skincare products with this active ingredient or have oily skin, attempt using a lower focus initially. You can gradually work up to a more powerful focus, but it is essential to utilize your item as routed, i.e., once a day. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & inflamed. It's additionally advised to use your products only at night, given that salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & discolor them.
