Advantages of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a vital ingredient in lots of nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with decreasing excess oil. It can additionally aid fading acne scars, although it may take a while.


Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. Yet it does so differently.

1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble and as a result able to sink deep right into the skin, dissolving excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that creates part of our skin structure, to ensure that completely dry, flaky skin easily sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be gotten rid of.

The problem with stopped up pores is that bacteria, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, creating the best environment for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid penetrates deeper into the pores to remove the accumulation, creating an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's aggressive to microorganisms.

Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, particularly for oily skin kinds. If you have delicate or dry skin, start with a lower dose and use it less commonly. Always read the label thoroughly to comply with application guidelines.

2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This enables the dead skin cells to drop even more easily, which consequently can aid unblock pores. This is what makes it such an effective ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when utilized combined with various other therapies that work to minimize sebum manufacturing.

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

Just like any type of treatment, it is very important to always follow the directions on your item's product packaging. Begin with a small amount and slowly enhance your usage as your skin accustoms to the component. This will help avoid any dry skin or level of sensitivity that may occur. 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 item with salicylic acid, it passes through deep right into your pores and loosens up the "adhesive" that triggers dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it easier for them to fall away and decreases pore blockages that bring about surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red acnes (acnes).

Due to its capability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests utilizing it in a product, rather than a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its performance. Make sure to read the ingredient tag meticulously and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or herbal products you're utilizing, as some can interact with salicylic acid.

To find a great item, look for one that contains salicylic acid in a higher concentration-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps protect against the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A favorite of numerous reviewers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid serum contains maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.

4. Reduces Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce redness & irritation related to acne blemishes. It likewise softens & loosens completely dry, flaky skin, which can help eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & particles that clog pores.

While non-prescription focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater focus through a prescription. A skin doctor can suggest the appropriate concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin type and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.

If you're brand-new to skincare products with this ingredient or have oily skin, try using a reduced concentration first. You can slowly develop to a more powerful focus, however it's important to utilize your product as routed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & medspa inflamed. It's additionally suggested to utilize your products just in the evening, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto textiles & discolor them.