Salicylic acid is an essential ingredient in lots of nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with minimizing excess oil. It can also aid fading acne scars, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by unplugging 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 into the skin, dissolving excess oil as well as dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an effective anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that creates part of our skin framework, to ensure that dry, scaly skin easily loses, and it loosens up blackheads and whiteheads so they can be gotten rid of.
The issue with stopped up pores is that germs, dirt and dead skin cells are entraped, developing the excellent atmosphere for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid passes through much deeper right into the pores to eliminate the build-up, developing an oxygen-rich setting that's aggressive to germs.
Look for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or greater, particularly for oily skin types. If you have sensitive or completely dry skin, begin with a reduced dose and use it much less commonly. Always check out the label meticulously to adhere to application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This allows the dead skin cells to shed even more quickly, which in turn can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when utilized in conjunction with various other therapies that work to lower sebum production.
In addition to being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic residential properties that assist break down sebum. This is what makes it so effective at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, in addition to various other non-inflammatory acne.
Similar to any type of treatment, it's important to constantly comply with the directions on your item's product packaging. Start with a percentage and gradually raise your usage as your skin acclimates to the active ingredient. This will help stay clear of any dry skin or sensitivity that might happen. Remember, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to discover a distinction 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 "adhesive" that causes dead skin cells to integrate together. This makes it less complicated for them to fall away and decreases pore blockages that cause superficial acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red pimples (pimples).
As a result of its ability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises using it in a product, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its efficiency. Make certain to review the ingredient tag carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural items you're using, as some can connect with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent product, seek one that contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that combines it with one more anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which assists protect against the drying results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of numerous customers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid serum consists of maltobionic acid to exfoliate without aggravating the skin.
4. Lowers Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing redness & inflammation related to acne blemishes. It likewise softens & loosens up dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove dead skin cells, flakes & particles that obstruct pores.
While over-the-counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for products that will certainly be left on your face), it's readily available in higher concentrations via a prescription. A dermatologist can suggest the correct botox lip flip concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin kind and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're new to skin care items with this active ingredient or have oily skin, attempt using a lower focus initially. You can gradually work up to a more powerful focus, but it is very important to utilize your product as guided, i.e., daily. Otherwise, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & inflamed. It's additionally recommended to use your items only in the evening, given that salicylic acid can transfer onto fabrics & discolor them.
