Salicylic acid is an essential active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads along with decreasing excess oil. It can additionally help fading acne marks, although it may take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it works by unplugging skin pores. Yet 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 into the skin, liquifying excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne therapy. 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 eliminated.
The issue with blocked pores is that bacteria, dust and dead skin cells are entraped, developing the best atmosphere for acne to flourish in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid permeates deeper right into the pores to remove the build-up, creating an oxygen-rich environment that's aggressive to germs.
Search for a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, specifically for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, begin with a lower dose and utilize it much less frequently. Always review the tag thoroughly to follow application guidelines.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid assists exfoliate the skin by liquifying the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This enables the dead skin cells to shed even more easily, which subsequently can assist unclog pores. This is what makes it such a powerful active ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, especially when made use of combined with other treatments that function to minimize sebum production.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid also has comedolytic properties that aid break down sebum. This is what makes it so efficient at treating blackheads and whiteheads, along with various other non-inflammatory acne.
Similar to any type of treatment, it is necessary to always follow the instructions on your product's product packaging. Begin with a small amount and slowly enhance your use as your skin accustoms to the ingredient. This will certainly help stay clear of any type of dry skin or sensitivity that may take place. Keep 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 up the "glue" that triggers dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it easier for them to fall away and minimizes pore blockages that bring about shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and tiny red pimples (acnes).
Due to its capacity to permeate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises using it in a product, instead of a cleanser or body clean, to maximize its performance. Make sure to review the component tag thoroughly and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural items you're utilizing, as some can connect with salicylic acid.
To find an excellent product, try to find one that contains salicylic acid in a greater focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which aids prevent the drying results of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of reviewers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Option 2% salicylic acid product consists of maltobionic acid to scrub without irritating the skin.
4. Minimizes Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce soreness & irritation connected with acne imperfections. It also softens & loosens completely dry, flaky skin, which can help eliminate 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 readily available in higher concentrations via a prescription. A dermatologist can suggest the proper concentration to treat your acne, based on your skin kind and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're new to skincare items with this active ingredient or have oily skin, try utilizing a reduced focus first. You can gradually work up to a more powerful focus, but it is essential to utilize your item as directed, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & aggravated. It's also suggested to utilize your items just in the evening, because salicylic botox acid can move onto textiles & stain them.
