Salicylic acid is a vital component in many nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads as well as minimizing excess oil. It can also assist 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, liquifying 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, 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 atmosphere that's hostile 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 review the tag very carefully to comply with application instructions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids scrub the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This enables the dead skin cells to drop more easily, which subsequently can assist unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective component for treating blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when utilized together with 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 treating blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to other non-inflammatory acne.
As with any type of treatment, it is necessary to constantly follow the instructions on your product's packaging. Beginning with a small amount and gradually boost your usage as your skin accommodates to the active ingredient. This will aid prevent any kind of dryness or sensitivity that might occur. Keep in mind, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.
3. Gets rid of Pores
When you utilize an acne item with salicylic acid, it permeates deep into your pores and loosens up the "adhesive" that triggers dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it easier for them to fall away and decreases pore clogs that cause superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red pimples (acnes).
Because of its capability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests using it in a product, rather than a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its performance. Make sure to review the component label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or natural products you're utilizing, as some can communicate with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent product, seek one that contains salicylic acid in a greater focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with another massage anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which assists prevent the drying effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of numerous reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid lotion includes maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.
4. Decreases Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce redness & inflammation associated with acne blemishes. It additionally softens & loosens up completely dry, flaky skin, which can aid get rid of dead skin cells, flakes & particles that obstruct pores.
While non-prescription focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's readily available in greater focus via a prescription. A skin specialist can suggest the appropriate concentration to treat your acne, based on your skin kind and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're brand-new to skin care items with this active ingredient or have oily skin, attempt making use of a reduced concentration first. You can slowly develop to a more powerful focus, but it's important to utilize your product as directed, i.e., daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & inflamed. It's likewise recommended to utilize your items only at night, because salicylic acid can move onto materials & stain them.
