Benefits of Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid is an essential ingredient in lots of nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with decreasing excess oil. It can additionally help fading acne marks, although it may take a while.


Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. But 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 for that reason able to sink deep into the skin, dissolving excess oil as well as dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that develops part of our skin structure, 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, salicylic acid passes through much deeper into the pores to eliminate the build-up, developing an oxygen-rich setting that's aggressive to germs.

Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, particularly for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or completely dry skin, begin with a lower dosage and utilize it less often. Constantly review the label 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 ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when used in conjunction with various other treatments that work to minimize sebum production.

In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic residential properties 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.

Just like any therapy, it is very important to always adhere to the directions on your item's product acne scar treatment near me packaging. Start with a percentage and slowly increase your use as your skin adjusts to the active ingredient. This will help stay clear of any dry skin or sensitivity that might happen. 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 "adhesive" that causes dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it less complicated for them to fall away and minimizes pore blockages that cause superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny 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 performance. Be sure to review the ingredient tag carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or herbal items you're using, as some can engage with salicylic acid.

To find a great item, search for one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which aids avoid the drying results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid lotion has maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.

4. Lowers Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing soreness & inflammation related to acne blemishes. It likewise softens & loosens up dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove 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 concentrations with a prescription. A dermatologist can suggest 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, try using a reduced focus initially. You can gradually work up to a more powerful focus, yet it's important to utilize your item as routed, i.e., once a day. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's additionally recommended to use your items just in the evening, because salicylic acid can move onto textiles & tarnish them.