Salicylic acid is an essential active ingredient in many nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with lowering excess oil. It can also assist fading acne marks, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by unplugging skin pores. However 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 into the skin, dissolving excess oil in addition to 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 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 setting for acne to grow in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid permeates deeper right into the pores to remove the accumulation, producing an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's hostile to microorganisms.
Try to find a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or higher, especially for oily skin kinds. If you have delicate or dry skin, start with a reduced dosage and use it less often. Constantly check out the label carefully to adhere to application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This permits the dead skin cells to drop even more conveniently, which consequently can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful active ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, especially when made use of combined with other treatments that function to decrease sebum manufacturing.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic buildings that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so reliable at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, as well as other non-inflammatory acne.
Just like any type of therapy, it is necessary to always follow the instructions on your item's product packaging. Start with a small amount and slowly boost your use as your skin accommodates to the ingredient. This will aid avoid any type of dryness or sensitivity that might take place. Bear in mind, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to observe a distinction in your acne.
3. Removes Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep right into your pores and loosens up the "adhesive" that causes dead skin cells to amalgamate together. This makes it less complicated for them to fall away and lowers pore clogs that bring about surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red pimples (pimples).
As a result of its capacity to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises using it in a product, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to maximize its performance. Make sure to read the active ingredient tag meticulously and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or organic items you're utilizing, as some can communicate with salicylic acid.
To discover a good item, seek one which contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or higher-- or that lactic acid combines it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which aids avoid the drying out results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of many customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid product includes maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.
4. Reduces Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce soreness & irritability connected with acne imperfections. It likewise softens & loosens completely dry, scaly skin, which can aid eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & particles that block pores.
While over-the-counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will certainly be left on your face), it's available in greater concentrations with a prescription. A skin doctor can suggest 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 products with this active ingredient or have oily skin, try making use of a lower focus first. You can slowly develop to a stronger focus, but it is necessary to use your item as directed, i.e., daily. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & inflamed. It's also suggested to utilize your products just at night, because salicylic acid can move onto fabrics & tarnish them.
