Salicylic acid is an essential active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne therapies. It runs out blackheads and whiteheads along with decreasing excess oil. It can likewise aid fading acne marks, although it might 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 a reliable anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that creates part of our skin structure, to ensure that completely dry, flaky skin easily drops, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The problem with stopped up pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are entraped, creating the perfect atmosphere for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid passes through much deeper right into the pores to remove the build-up, creating an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's hostile to germs.
Try to find a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% focus or greater, specifically for oily skin kinds. If you have delicate or completely dry skin, begin with a reduced dosage and utilize it much less often. Always read the label carefully to follow application instructions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This permits the dead skin cells to shed more easily, which in turn can assist unblock pores. This is what makes it such an effective active ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, specifically when used along with various other therapies that work to decrease sebum production.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic homes that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at treating blackheads and whiteheads, as well as other non-inflammatory acne.
Just like any treatment, it's important to constantly adhere to the instructions on your product's packaging. Start with a small amount and progressively raise your use as your skin adapts to the component. This will help avoid any dryness or level of sensitivity that might occur. Bear in mind, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to observe a difference 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 "glue" that causes dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it simpler for them to fall away rejune mega skin care and lowers pore blockages that cause superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and little red acnes (pimples).
Due to its ability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a serum, as opposed to a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its performance. Make sure to review the active ingredient tag meticulously and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural products you're using, as some can interact with salicylic acid.
To locate a good item, look for one that contains salicylic acid in a greater focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that integrates it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as salt PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps avoid the drying out results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of customers with delicate skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid product includes maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.
4. Lowers Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce inflammation & irritability associated with acne blemishes. It additionally softens & loosens up completely 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 specialist can suggest the correct concentration to treat your acne, based on your skin kind and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're brand-new to skin care products with this component or have oily skin, attempt making use of a reduced concentration first. You can gradually work up to a stronger concentration, however it is necessary to use your product as directed, i.e., once a day. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & inflamed. It's likewise suggested to use your products only at night, considering that salicylic acid can transfer onto fabrics & discolor them.
