Salicylic acid is a key ingredient in several nonprescription acne treatments. It runs out blackheads and whiteheads along with lowering excess oil. It can likewise aid fading acne marks, although it may take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by unplugging skin pores. Yet 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, dissolving excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an effective anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that forms part of our skin framework, so that completely dry, scaly skin conveniently drops, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be eliminated.
The problem with stopped up pores is that microorganisms, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, creating the perfect atmosphere for acne to grow in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid passes through deeper into the pores to remove the build-up, creating an oxygen-rich setting that's hostile to bacteria.
Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or higher, particularly for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, start with a reduced dose and utilize it much less usually. Always review the label carefully to comply with application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids exfoliate the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This enables the dead skin cells to lose more quickly, which subsequently can help unclog pores. This is what makes it such a powerful active ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when used together with various other therapies that function to reduce sebum production.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic residential or commercial properties that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so reliable at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, along with other non-inflammatory acne.
As with any treatment, it is very important to constantly follow the directions on your product's packaging. Begin with a percentage and slowly raise your use as your skin accommodates to the ingredient. This will help avoid any dryness or sensitivity that may occur. Remember, it can take up beverly hills walk in clinic to 6-8 weeks to discover 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 "adhesive" that causes dead skin cells to integrate with each other. This makes it simpler for them to fall away and decreases pore clogs that result in surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red pimples (acnes).
Because of its capacity to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a lotion, as opposed to a cleanser or body laundry, to maximize its performance. Make certain to check out the ingredient label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural items you're making use of, as some can engage with salicylic acid.
To locate an excellent product, try to find one that contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as salt PCA and salt hyaluronate, which assists avoid the drying results of the salicylic acid. A fave of numerous reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid serum contains maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.
4. Minimizes Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce soreness & irritation related to acne imperfections. It additionally softens & loosens completely dry, flaky skin, which can assist remove dead skin cells, flakes & particles that clog pores.
While over-the-counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's readily available in higher focus through a prescription. A skin doctor can recommend the proper concentration to treat your acne, based on your skin kind and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're brand-new to skincare items with this component or have oily skin, try making use of a reduced concentration first. You can progressively develop to a more powerful concentration, however it is necessary to use your product as routed, i.e., once a day. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's likewise advised to use your products just at night, considering that salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & stain them.
