Salicylic acid is a vital active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne treatments. It runs out 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 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 a reliable anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the protein that forms part of our skin structure, so that completely dry, flaky skin conveniently drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The problem with clogged up pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are caught, creating the perfect environment 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 environment that's aggressive to germs.
Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, specifically 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 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 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 decrease sebum production.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic residential or commercial properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at treating blackheads and whiteheads, along with other non-inflammatory acne.
As with any kind of treatment, it's important to constantly comply with the instructions on your item's packaging. Beginning with a small amount and progressively enhance your usage as your skin adapts to the component. This will assist avoid any kind of dryness or microneedling level of sensitivity that might occur. Keep 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 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, as opposed to a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its effectiveness. 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 find a great 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 component, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which aids prevent 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. Minimizes Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce soreness & irritation connected with acne imperfections. It also softens & loosens completely dry, scaly skin, which can assist get rid of dead skin cells, flakes & debris that block pores.
While non-prescription concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will certainly be left on your face), it's available in higher focus through a prescription. A skin specialist can advise the proper 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 component or have oily skin, attempt utilizing a reduced focus initially. You can progressively develop to a more powerful focus, but it is very important to utilize your product as guided, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's also suggested to utilize your items only in the evening, considering that salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & stain them.
