Benefits of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a key 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 functions 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 framework, to make sure that completely dry, flaky skin quickly sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.

The trouble with clogged up pores is that germs, dirt and dead skin cells are trapped, creating the perfect setting for acne to grow in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just 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 environment that's aggressive to germs.

Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, specifically for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or completely dry skin, begin with a lower dose and utilize it much less typically. Always read the label very carefully to comply with application directions.

2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps exfoliate the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This permits the dead skin cells to drop more easily, which subsequently can assist unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective active ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, especially when used in conjunction with various other therapies that work to decrease sebum production.

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

Just like any therapy, it is very important to always adhere to 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 avoid any kind of dryness or sensitivity that might happen. Remember, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to observe a difference in your acne.

3. Clears Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it penetrates 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 shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red pimples (acnes).

Due to its ability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests utilizing it in a lotion, 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 medicines you take or herbal products you're making use of, as some can communicate with salicylic acid.

To find a great item, search for 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 sodium hyaluronate, which helps stop the drying impacts of the salicylic acid. A fave of numerous customers 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 reduce inflammation & irritability associated with acne imperfections. It also softens & loosens up completely dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove dead skin cells, flakes & particles that clog pores.

While over the counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will certainly be left on your face), it's offered in higher concentrations via a prescription. A dermatologist can advise the correct concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin type 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 concentration first. You can progressively develop to a stronger focus, yet it's important to use your product as routed, i.e., once a day. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's also suggested to utilize your items only in the evening, given that salicylic acid can move onto materials & tarnish them.