Salicylic acid is a vital ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne treatments. It runs out blackheads and whiteheads along with lowering 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 therefore able to sink deep into the skin, dissolving excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an effective anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the protein that creates part of our skin framework, so that dry, flaky skin conveniently sheds, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be eliminated.
The issue with clogged up pores is that bacteria, dirt and dead skin cells are caught, developing the excellent environment for acne to flourish in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid passes through much deeper into the pores to get rid of the build-up, producing an oxygen-rich atmosphere that's aggressive to microorganisms.
Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, particularly for oily skin types. If you have delicate or completely dry skin, begin with a reduced dosage and utilize it much less often. Always read the label very carefully to comply with 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 permits the dead skin cells to shed more easily, which in turn can help unclog pores. This is what makes it such a powerful ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, especially when used along with other treatments 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.
As with any therapy, it's important to constantly adhere to the instructions on your item's product packaging. Begin with a small amount and gradually increase your usage as your skin acclimates to the active ingredient. This will certainly aid prevent any type of dryness or sensitivity that might take place. Bear in mind, it can use up to 6-8 weeks to discover a difference in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you make use of an acne item with salicylic acid, it permeates deep into your pores and loosens the "adhesive" that creates dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it easier skin labs for them to fall away and reduces pore clogs that cause shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red pimples (acnes).
Due to its ability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises utilizing it in a serum, rather than a cleanser or body clean, to optimize its effectiveness. Be sure to review the component label meticulously and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural products you're making use of, as some can engage with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent item, look for one which contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that integrates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which aids avoid the drying impacts of the salicylic acid. A favorite of several customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid serum has maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.
4. Lowers Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing inflammation & irritation connected with acne imperfections. It additionally softens & loosens up dry, flaky skin, which can assist remove dead skin cells, flakes & particles that clog pores.
While non-prescription concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's readily available in greater focus with a prescription. A dermatologist can suggest the correct focus 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 skincare items with this component or have oily skin, attempt utilizing a reduced concentration initially. You can gradually develop to a stronger focus, but it is very important to use your product as routed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's additionally recommended to use your items only at night, since salicylic acid can move onto textiles & stain them.
