Benefits of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a vital component in several nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads as well as decreasing excess oil. It can additionally aid fading acne scars, although it may take a while.


Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by unplugging skin pores. But it does so in a different way.

1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble and consequently able to sink deep into the skin, dissolving excess oil in addition to dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that forms part of our skin structure, to ensure that completely dry, flaky skin conveniently sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.

The issue with stopped up pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are entraped, producing the ideal environment for acne to thrive in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid permeates deeper right into the pores to remove the accumulation, creating an oxygen-rich environment 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 use it less often. Constantly check out the label meticulously 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 even more easily, which in turn can aid unclog pores. This is what makes it such a powerful component for treating blackheads and whiteheads, especially when made use of along with other therapies that work to lower sebum production.

Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic residential or commercial properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at treating blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to other non-inflammatory acne.

Similar to any therapy, it is essential to constantly comply with the instructions on your item's packaging. Begin with a small amount and slowly increase your use as your skin acclimates to the active ingredient. This will aid avoid any type of dryness or level of sensitivity that might occur. Bear in mind, it can use up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.

3. Removes Pores
When you use an acne product with salicylic acid, it passes through deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that triggers dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it much easier for them to fall away and reduces pore obstructions that bring about superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red pimples (pimples).

As a result of its ability to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises using it in a lotion, as opposed to a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its performance. Be sure to check out the active ingredient label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or herbal products you're utilizing, as some can interact with salicylic acid.

To find an excellent item, seek one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps prevent the drying out impacts of the salicylic acid. A favorite of several reviewers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid serum has maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.

4. Lowers Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce soreness & inflammation related to acne imperfections. It also softens & loosens up dry, flaky skin, which can assist eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & debris 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 readily available in higher focus with a prescription. A skin specialist can recommend the right focus to treat your acne, based on your skin type and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.

If you're new to skincare products with this ingredient or have oily skin, try making use of a lower focus first. You can progressively develop to a stronger focus, but it's important to use your item as guided, i.e., daily. Otherwise, overuse can lip lift near me leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's likewise advised to use your items only at night, since salicylic acid can move onto textiles & stain them.