Salicylic acid is a crucial ingredient in several nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with decreasing excess oil. It can additionally assist fading acne marks, although it may 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 right into the skin, liquifying excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an efficient anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the protein that forms part of our skin structure, to make sure that completely dry, flaky skin quickly 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 caught, creating the perfect setting for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates much deeper right into the pores to do away with the build-up, creating an oxygen-rich setting that's aggressive to germs.
Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, particularly for oily skin types. If you have delicate or completely dry skin, start with a lower dosage and utilize it less often. Constantly check out the label carefully to adhere to application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This permits the dead skin cells to lose more easily, which subsequently can assist unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective component for treating blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when made use of together with other therapies that work to reduce sebum manufacturing.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so effective at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to other non-inflammatory acne.
Similar to any type of treatment, it is very important to always follow the instructions on your product's product packaging. Begin with a small amount and slowly increase your use as your skin accustoms to the ingredient. This will certainly assist stay clear of any type of dryness or level of sensitivity that may take place. Keep in mind, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to observe a difference in your acne.
3. Gets rid of Pores
When you utilize an acne item with salicylic acid, it permeates deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that triggers dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it simpler for them to fall away and lowers pore obstructions that lead to surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red acnes (pimples).
As a result of its capability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests utilizing it in a lotion, as opposed to a cleanser or body laundry, 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 organic products you're utilizing, as some can interact with salicylic acid.
To discover an excellent product, seek one that contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt medspa hyaluronate, which aids avoid the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of several reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid lotion contains 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 likewise softens & loosens up dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove dead skin cells, flakes & debris that obstruct pores.
While over-the-counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater concentrations with a prescription. A skin doctor can advise the appropriate concentration to treat your acne, based on your skin type and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're new to skincare items with this active ingredient or have oily skin, attempt utilizing a lower concentration initially. You can progressively develop to a more powerful concentration, but it's important to utilize your product as directed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's likewise suggested to utilize your products only at night, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto fabrics & discolor them.
