Salicylic acid is an essential active ingredient in many nonprescription acne treatments. It runs out blackheads and whiteheads along with reducing excess oil. It can also help fading acne scars, although it may take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by disconnecting 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 consequently able to sink deep into the skin, dissolving excess oil in addition to dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an efficient anti-acne therapy. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that forms part of our skin structure, to ensure that completely dry, flaky skin conveniently sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The issue with stopped up pores is that germs, dust and dead skin cells are entraped, developing the perfect environment for acne to flourish in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates deeper into the pores to eliminate the accumulation, developing an oxygen-rich setting that's aggressive to bacteria.
Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, particularly for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or dry skin, start with a lower dose and use it much less often. Always read the tag carefully to follow application guidelines.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids scrub the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This enables the dead skin cells to drop more easily, which in turn can help unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective active ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when utilized together with other treatments that work to lower sebum manufacturing.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally 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 therapy, it is necessary to constantly follow the directions on your item's product packaging. Start with a small amount and progressively boost your usage as your skin adjusts to the ingredient. This will certainly assist avoid any kind of dry skin or sensitivity that might happen. Keep in mind, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you make use of an acne product with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep right into your pores and loosens 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 blockages that cause shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red acnes (pimples).
As a result of its capability to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a lotion, as opposed to a cleanser or body laundry, to maximize its efficiency. Be sure to review the component tag very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or natural products you're utilizing, as some can interact with salicylic acid.
To locate a good item, look for one which contains salicylic acid in a higher focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps protect against the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of many reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid product includes maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.
4. Reduces Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing inflammation & irritability associated with acne imperfections. It additionally softens & loosens completely dry, flaky skin, which can help eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & particles that obstruct pores.
While over the counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will be left on your face), it's readily available in higher concentrations with a prescription. A skin doctor can suggest the proper concentration to treat your acne, based on your skin kind and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're new to skincare items with this active ingredient or have oily skin, try utilizing a reduced focus first. You can slowly develop to a more powerful concentration, but it is very important to utilize your product as directed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's also suggested to utilize your items just in the evening, because salicylic acid can transfer onto lactic acid materials & tarnish them.
