Advantages of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a vital active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads as well as minimizing 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 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, dissolving excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the protein that develops part of our skin structure, so 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 environment for acne to grow in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates deeper right into the pores to do away with the accumulation, producing an oxygen-rich environment that's aggressive to germs.

Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, specifically for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, begin with a lower dose and utilize it much less frequently. Always review the tag thoroughly to follow application guidelines.

2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid assists exfoliate the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This allows the dead skin cells to lose even more quickly, which in turn can aid unclog pores. This is what makes it such a powerful active ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, especially when made use of combined with other treatments that function to minimize sebum production.

Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic homes that help break down sebum. This is what makes it so reliable at treating blackheads and whiteheads, as well as various other non-inflammatory acne.

As with any kind of therapy, it is essential to constantly comply with the directions on your item's packaging. Beginning with a percentage and gradually raise your usage as your skin acclimates to the component. This will aid prevent any kind of dryness or sensitivity that might occur. Bear in mind, it can use up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.

3. Gets rid of Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it permeates deep into your pores and loosens the "adhesive" that triggers dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it easier for them to fall away and minimizes pore blockages that bring about shallow 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, instead of a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its performance. Make sure to review the component tag thoroughly and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or herbal items you're making use of, as some can communicate with salicylic acid.

To locate a good item, search for one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or greater-- or that combines it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as salt PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps stop the drying impacts of the salicylic acid. A fave of numerous customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid product includes maltobionic acid medical spa to scrub without aggravating the skin.

4. Decreases Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce inflammation & irritability associated with acne blemishes. It additionally softens & loosens completely dry, flaky skin, which can help eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & particles that clog pores.

While over the counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will certainly be left on your face), it's readily available in higher concentrations 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, try utilizing a reduced focus first. You can slowly develop to a more powerful concentration, but it is very important to utilize your product as directed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's also suggested to utilize your items only in the evening, considering that salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & stain them.