Salicylic acid is a vital ingredient in lots of nonprescription acne therapies. It dries up blackheads and whiteheads in addition to minimizing excess oil. It can additionally help fading acne scars, although it might take a while.
Like benzoyl peroxide, it functions by unplugging skin pores. However it does so in different ways.
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 develops part of our skin structure, so that completely dry, flaky skin quickly drops, and it loosens blackheads and whiteheads so they can be removed.
The trouble with clogged up pores is that microorganisms, dust and dead skin cells are caught, creating the perfect setting for acne to grow in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates much deeper right into the pores to do away with the build-up, creating an oxygen-rich environment that's hostile to microorganisms.
Seek a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, especially for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, start with a reduced dosage and use it much less usually. Constantly read the tag meticulously to comply with application directions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid helps scrub the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This permits the dead skin cells to drop more conveniently, which consequently can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such a powerful ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, especially when used combined 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 reliable at dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, as well as various other non-inflammatory acne.
Just like any therapy, it is very important to always adhere to the directions on your item's packaging. Beginning with a percentage and gradually boost your usage as your skin acclimates to the active ingredient. This will aid prevent any kind of dryness or level of sensitivity that may take place. Remember, it can occupy to 6-8 weeks to discover a distinction in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you make use of an acne product with salicylic acid, it passes through deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that triggers dead skin cells to amalgamate together. This makes it less complicated for them to fall away and decreases pore clogs that result in surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red acnes (acnes).
Because of its capacity to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor suggests utilizing it in a serum, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to maximize its performance. Be sure to check out the active ingredient label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription drugs you take or natural items you're using, as some can communicate with salicylic acid.
To locate a good product, seek one that contains salicylic acid in a higher concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that combines it with another anti-inflammatory and exfoliating component, such as salt PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps stop the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of customers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid serum includes maltobionic acid to scrub without aggravating the skin.
4. Lowers Inflammation
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce redness & irritation related to acne imperfections. It likewise softens & loosens dry, flaky skin, which can assist eliminate dead skin cells, flakes & debris that obstruct pores.
While non-prescription focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will certainly be left on your onexfly skin face), it's readily available in higher concentrations via a prescription. A skin specialist can advise the right concentration to treat your acne, based on your skin type and your experience with therapies such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're new to skin care products with this active ingredient or have oily skin, attempt using a lower focus first. You can gradually develop to a stronger concentration, yet 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, considering that salicylic acid can transfer onto textiles & discolor them.
