Salicylic acid is an essential component in lots of nonprescription acne treatments. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads as well as reducing excess oil. It can also aid fading acne marks, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by disconnecting skin pores. However 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 as a result able to sink deep right into the skin, dissolving excess oil as well as dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an effective 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 problem with clogged pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are caught, developing the ideal setting for acne to thrive in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid penetrates much deeper into the pores to do away with the accumulation, creating an oxygen-rich setting that's hostile to germs.
Seek a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, specifically for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or completely dry skin, start with a lower dosage and utilize it less commonly. Always check out the tag meticulously to follow application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids exfoliate the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This enables the dead skin cells to shed more quickly, which subsequently can help unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective active ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when utilized in conjunction with other treatments that function to lower sebum production.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic properties that help break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, along with various other non-inflammatory acne.
As with any type of therapy, it is necessary to always follow the directions on your item's product packaging. Beginning with a small amount and slowly enhance your usage as your skin adjusts to the ingredient. This will aid stay clear of any kind of dry skin or sensitivity that may occur. Remember, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to see a distinction in your acne.
3. Removes Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it penetrates deep into your pores and loosens the "adhesive" that triggers dead skin cells to amalgamate together. This makes it easier 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 lotion, rather than a cleanser or body clean, to optimize its efficiency. Be sure to review the component label carefully 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 discover a good item, search for one that contains salicylic acid in microneedling a greater concentration-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with one more anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which aids stop the drying results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of many reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid product consists of maltobionic acid to scrub without aggravating the skin.
4. Decreases Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing soreness & inflammation connected with acne imperfections. It also softens & loosens up dry, flaky skin, which can help get rid of dead skin cells, flakes & debris 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 higher focus through 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 component or have oily skin, attempt using a reduced concentration initially. You can gradually work up to a more powerful concentration, but it's important to use your item as directed, i.e., once a day. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's likewise advised to use your items just in the evening, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto materials & tarnish them.
