Benefits of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a crucial component in many nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with decreasing excess oil. It can additionally help 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 for that reason 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 healthy protein that develops part of our skin structure, so that dry, flaky skin quickly drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.

The problem with clogged up pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are trapped, creating the excellent 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 setting that's aggressive to germs.

Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, particularly for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or completely dry skin, begin with a lower dose and utilize it much less typically. Always read the tag very carefully to follow application instructions.

2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids 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 in turn can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such an effective ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when utilized in conjunction with various other therapies that work to lower sebum production.

In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic residential properties that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so effective at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, along with other non-inflammatory acne.

Similar to any type of treatment, it is necessary to constantly follow the instructions on your product's product packaging. Begin with a small amount and progressively boost your usage as your skin accommodates to the component. This will assist avoid any kind of dryness or level of sensitivity that may occur. Bear in mind, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.

3. Clears Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it passes through 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 shallow botox in a bottle acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red acnes (pimples).

As a result of its ability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a serum, as opposed to a cleanser or body wash, 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 natural products you're utilizing, as some can interact with salicylic acid.

To discover a good item, seek one that contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that combines it with one more anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps stop the drying impacts of the salicylic acid. A fave of many customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid product includes maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.

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

While non-prescription concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will certainly be left on your face), it's available in higher focus through a prescription. A skin specialist can advise the correct concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin kind and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.

If you're new to skin care products with this component or have oily skin, attempt making use of a lower concentration 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 suggested to utilize your items only in the evening, considering that salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & discolor them.