Salicylic acid is a vital active ingredient in several nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads in addition to reducing excess oil. It can additionally aid fading acne scars, although it may take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. However 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 consequently able to sink deep 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 protein that forms part of our skin structure, to ensure that completely dry, scaly skin quickly sheds, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The problem with stopped up pores is that germs, dust and dead skin cells are trapped, developing the perfect atmosphere for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid passes through much deeper right into the pores to remove the build-up, producing an oxygen-rich setting that's aggressive to bacteria.
Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or greater, specifically for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, start with a reduced dosage and utilize it less typically. Constantly read the label carefully to follow application instructions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This permits the dead skin cells to lose more quickly, which in turn can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful component for treating blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when utilized along with other treatments that work to reduce sebum manufacturing.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic residential or commercial properties that help break down sebum. This is what makes it so effective at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, along with other non-inflammatory acne.
As with any kind of treatment, it is essential to always adhere to the instructions on your item's product packaging. Begin with a percentage and gradually enhance your use as your skin adapts to the component. This will certainly assist avoid any kind of dryness or level of sensitivity that may occur. Bear in mind, it can use up to 6-8 weeks to notice a distinction in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you make use of 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 shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red pimples (pimples).
Because of its ability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests utilizing it in a product, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its effectiveness. Make certain to read the component tag thoroughly and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or herbal products you're making use of, as some can botox side effects interact with salicylic acid.
To discover an excellent product, try to find one which contains salicylic acid in a higher concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that incorporates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which assists protect against the drying effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of several reviewers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid serum consists of maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.
4. Minimizes Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce redness & irritability related to acne blemishes. It also softens & loosens up dry, flaky skin, which can help get rid of dead skin cells, flakes & particles that clog pores.
While over-the-counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater focus through a prescription. A skin doctor can recommend the proper concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin type and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're new to skin care items with this ingredient or have oily skin, try making use of a reduced focus first. You can gradually work up to a stronger focus, yet it is necessary to utilize your item as routed, i.e., daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's also recommended to utilize your items only in the evening, considering that salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & stain them.
