Salicylic acid is an essential ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads as well as minimizing excess oil. It can also aid fading acne marks, although it may take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by disconnecting skin pores. However 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 therefore able to sink deep right into the skin, liquifying excess oil in addition to dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that forms part of our skin framework, to ensure that completely dry, flaky skin easily drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be eliminated.
The problem with stopped up pores is that bacteria, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, producing the ideal setting for acne to thrive in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid passes through deeper right into the pores to get rid of the build-up, creating an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's aggressive to microorganisms.
Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or higher, particularly for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, begin with a reduced dose and use it much less often. Always review the label very carefully to follow application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This permits the dead skin cells to shed more quickly, which subsequently can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful component for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when made use of along with various other treatments that work to lower sebum production.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic residential or commercial properties that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, as well as other non-inflammatory acne.
Just like any type of treatment, it is very important to constantly comply with the instructions on your item's product packaging. Beginning with a small amount and gradually increase your use as your skin adjusts to the component. This will assist prevent any type of dryness or sensitivity that may take place. Bear in mind, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep into your pores and loosens up the "adhesive" that creates dead skin cells to integrate with each other. This makes it less complicated for them to fall away and lowers pore clogs that bring about shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red pimples (pimples).
Because of its ability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests using it in a lotion, as opposed to a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its efficiency. Make certain to check out the component label meticulously and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural products you're making use of, as some can connect with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent item, search for one that contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with another mesotherapy anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which helps stop the drying effects of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of customers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid serum has maltobionic acid to exfoliate without irritating the skin.
4. Decreases Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce redness & inflammation connected with acne imperfections. It additionally softens & loosens up dry, scaly skin, which can aid eliminate 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 readily available in greater focus via a prescription. A skin doctor can advise the proper focus to treat your acne, based upon your skin type and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're brand-new to skin care products with this component or have oily skin, try using a reduced focus first. You can slowly work up to a more powerful concentration, but it is very important to use your product as routed, i.e., once daily. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's additionally recommended to utilize your items only at night, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto fabrics & discolor them.
