Benefits of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a key component in many 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 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, liquifying excess oil in addition to dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an efficient anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the protein that forms part of our skin structure, to make sure that completely dry, flaky skin quickly sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be gotten rid of.

The trouble with clogged up pores is that germs, dirt and dead skin cells are trapped, creating the excellent 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 eliminate the build-up, developing an oxygen-rich setting that's aggressive to germs.

Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus 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 review the tag thoroughly to follow application guidelines.

2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid assists exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This enables the dead skin cells to shed even more quickly, which consequently can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such an effective ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when utilized along with various 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 efficient at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to other non-inflammatory acne.

Similar to any type of treatment, it is necessary to always follow the instructions on your product's product packaging. Begin with a small amount and progressively enhance your use as your skin adapts to the ingredient. This will certainly assist avoid any kind of dryness or level botox injections 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 right into your pores and loosens the "adhesive" that triggers dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it easier for them to fall away and minimizes pore blockages that bring about superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red pimples (acnes).

Due to its capacity to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises using it in a product, rather than a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its performance. Be sure to review the ingredient tag carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or herbal items you're using, as some can engage with salicylic acid.

To find a great item, search for one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or greater-- or that integrates it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which assists protect against the drying results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid serum consists of maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.

4. Minimizes Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce soreness & irritation related to acne imperfections. It likewise softens & loosens up completely dry, scaly skin, which can assist get rid of dead skin cells, flakes & debris that block pores.

While over-the-counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will certainly be left on your face), it's offered in greater focus through a prescription. A skin specialist can advise the appropriate focus 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 skin care products with this component 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 directed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's also recommended to use your items just in the evening, because salicylic acid can move onto textiles & stain them.