Salicylic acid is a crucial ingredient in many nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads in addition to reducing excess oil. It can additionally help fading acne marks, although it may take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by disconnecting skin pores. Yet it does so in different ways.
1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble and consequently able to sink deep right 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 conveniently drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The problem with clogged pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are caught, creating the perfect 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 frequently. Always review the tag thoroughly to follow application guidelines.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid assists 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 aid unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful active ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when used combined with various other treatments that function to minimize sebum production.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic homes that help break down sebum. This is what makes it so reliable at treating blackheads and whiteheads, as well as various other non-inflammatory acne.
As with any kind of therapy, it is essential to constantly comply with the directions on your item's packaging. Beginning with a small amount and gradually boost your usage as your skin accommodates to the component. This will aid prevent any kind of dryness or sensitivity that might occur. Bear 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 product with salicylic acid, it passes through deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that creates dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it much easier for them to fall away and decreases pore clogs that result in surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red acnes (pimples).
As a result of its ability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests utilizing it in a serum, as opposed to a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its effectiveness. Make sure to read the component label thoroughly and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or ultherapy natural items you're using, as some can engage with salicylic acid.
To find a great product, search for one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which assists protect against the drying results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid serum consists of maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.
4. Lowers Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing redness & inflammation related to acne blemishes. It likewise softens & loosens up dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove dead skin cells, flakes & debris that obstruct pores.
While over-the-counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater concentrations with a prescription. A skin doctor can recommend the appropriate focus to treat your acne, based on your skin type and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're brand-new to skincare products with this component or have oily skin, attempt using a lower focus initially. You can gradually work up to a more powerful focus, but it is very important 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 products only at night, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto materials & discolor them.
