Advantages of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is a key active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads as well as lowering excess oil. It can likewise 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, liquifying excess oil in addition to dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an efficient anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the protein that develops part of our skin framework, to ensure that dry, scaly skin conveniently loses, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be eliminated.

The issue with blocked pores is that bacteria, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, 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 utilize it less frequently. Always review the tag thoroughly to follow application guidelines.

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 permits the dead skin cells to drop more conveniently, which consequently can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such an effective component for treating blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when utilized along with other therapies that work to decrease sebum manufacturing.

Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic buildings that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at treating blackheads and whiteheads, along with various other non-inflammatory acne.

As with any kind of treatment, it's important to always comply with the directions on your item's packaging. Start with a small amount and progressively enhance your use as your skin accommodates to the active ingredient. This will aid prevent any dry skin or sensitivity that may take place. Remember, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to discover a distinction in your acne.

3. Removes Pores
When you use an acne item with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep right into your pores and loosens the "glue" that creates dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it simpler for them to fall away and decreases pore blockages that cause superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red pimples (acnes).

Due to its capability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests using it in a product, instead of a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its efficiency. Be sure to check out the component label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or natural products you're making use of, as some can engage with salicylic acid.

To find an excellent product, seek one which 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 prevent the drying out results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of several customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid product includes maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.

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

While over-the-counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater dermatologica concentrations with a prescription. A skin doctor can recommend the right 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 skincare products with this component or have oily skin, attempt using a reduced concentration initially. You can slowly develop to a stronger concentration, yet it's important to utilize your item as directed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's likewise advised to use your products just in the evening, considering that salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & discolor them.