Salicylic acid is an essential ingredient in lots of nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads in addition to lowering excess oil. It can also assist fading acne marks, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. But it does so differently.
1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble and therefore able to sink deep right into the skin, liquifying excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an efficient anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that develops part of our skin structure, to make sure that completely dry, scaly skin conveniently drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be gotten rid of.
The trouble with clogged pores is that bacteria, dirt and dead skin cells are trapped, producing the best setting for acne to grow in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates deeper into the pores to eliminate the build-up, creating an oxygen-rich environment that's hostile to bacteria.
Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, especially for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or dry skin, start with a reduced dosage and use it much less typically. Always read the label meticulously to comply with application instructions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This allows the dead skin cells to shed even more quickly, which in turn can help unclog pores. This is what makes it such a powerful ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, especially when used along with other therapies that function to minimize sebum manufacturing.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic residential properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so effective at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, along with various other non-inflammatory acne.
Similar to any type of treatment, it is essential to always adhere to the instructions on your product's packaging. Begin with a percentage and slowly increase your use as your skin acclimates to the component. This will certainly help avoid any type of dry skin or sensitivity that may take place. Remember, it can use up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.
3. Removes Pores
When you make use of an acne item with salicylic acid, it passes through deep right into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that causes dead skin cells to amalgamate together. This makes it much easier for them to fall away and minimizes pore clogs that lead to superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red pimples (pimples).
Because of its capability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a product, as opposed to a cleanser or body clean, to optimize its efficiency. Make sure to review the active ingredient label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medicines you take or natural products you're using, as some can interact with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent item, try to find one which contains salicylic acid in a higher concentration-- 2 percent or higher-- or that combines it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which helps prevent the drying out results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of many customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid serum contains maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.
4. Lowers Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing soreness & irritation connected with acne imperfections. It additionally softens & loosens up dry, scaly skin, which can assist eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & particles that obstruct pores.
While over-the-counter concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products morpheus8 that will be left on your face), it's available in higher concentrations through a prescription. A dermatologist can recommend the correct concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin kind and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're brand-new to skincare products with this ingredient or have oily skin, attempt utilizing a lower concentration initially. You can progressively develop to a stronger concentration, however it is essential to use your item as guided, i.e., once a day. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & inflamed. It's also advised to use your items only in the evening, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto textiles & discolor them.
