Salicylic acid is a vital component in several nonprescription acne treatments. 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 an efficient anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the protein that creates part of our skin framework, to make sure that completely dry, scaly skin easily sheds, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be gotten rid of.
The trouble with stopped up pores is that germs, dirt and dead skin cells are trapped, developing the best atmosphere for acne to flourish in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid passes through much deeper into the pores to get rid of the accumulation, developing an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's hostile to bacteria.
Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus 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 carefully to adhere to application guidelines.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid assists exfoliate the skin by liquifying 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 a powerful ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when used combined with various other treatments that function to minimize 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, in addition to other non-inflammatory acne.
Similar to any type of treatment, it is necessary to always follow the instructions on your product's product packaging. Begin with a small amount and progressively enhance your use as your skin adapts to the component. This will certainly assist avoid any kind of dryness or level of sensitivity that may occur. Keep 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 permeates deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that creates 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 acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red acnes (pimples).
Due to its ability to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a serum, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to maximize its performance. Make sure to read the component label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or natural items you're utilizing, as some can connect with salicylic acid.
To discover an excellent product, try to find one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with an additional anti-inflammatory botox and exfoliating component, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which aids avoid the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of many reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid lotion contains maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.
4. Decreases Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce inflammation & irritability connected with acne imperfections. It likewise softens & loosens up completely dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove dead skin cells, flakes & debris that block pores.
While over-the-counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will certainly be left on your face), it's available in greater 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 items with this ingredient or have oily skin, try making use of a lower concentration initially. You can progressively work up to a stronger focus, yet it's important to use your item as routed, i.e., once a day. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & inflamed. It's additionally recommended to use your products just at night, since salicylic acid can transfer onto materials & discolor them.
