Salicylic acid is a crucial component in many nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with minimizing excess oil. It can also aid fading acne scars, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging 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 therefore able to sink deep right 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 forms part of our skin structure, to make sure that completely dry, flaky skin quickly sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The trouble with clogged up pores is that microorganisms, dirt and dead skin cells are trapped, creating the perfect setting for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates much deeper right into the pores to eliminate the build-up, developing an oxygen-rich setting that's aggressive to germs.
Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, particularly for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or completely dry skin, start with a lower dosage and use it less usually. Constantly check out the label meticulously to adhere to application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps exfoliate the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This allows the dead skin cells to lose more easily, which subsequently can assist unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective component for treating blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when utilized along with various other therapies that work to lower sebum manufacturing.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic buildings 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 slowly increase your use as your skin accustoms to the ingredient. This will certainly assist stay clear of any type of dryness or level of sensitivity that may take place. Keep in mind, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to observe a distinction in your acne.
3. Removes Pores
When botox in a bottle you use an acne item with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep right into your pores and loosens the "adhesive" that causes dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it less complicated for them to fall away and decreases pore clogs that cause superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red pimples (acnes).
Because of its capacity to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises using it in a product, rather than a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its efficiency. Be sure to review the component tag thoroughly and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural items you're using, as some can connect with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent product, try to find one that 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 stop the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of many reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid lotion has maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.
4. Lowers Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing redness & inflammation associated 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 over-the-counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater focus through a prescription. A skin specialist can recommend the right 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 active ingredient or have oily skin, attempt using a reduced focus first. You can gradually develop to a more powerful focus, but it is essential to utilize your item as directed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's also advised to use your products only at night, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto materials & discolor them.
