Salicylic acid is a crucial active ingredient in numerous nonprescription acne therapies. It runs out blackheads and whiteheads as well as lowering excess oil. It can likewise help fading acne marks, although it may 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 into the skin, liquifying excess oil along with dead skin cells. This is what makes it such a reliable anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the healthy protein that creates part of our skin framework, 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 germs, dirt and dead skin cells are caught, producing the ideal environment for acne to grow in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which just scrub the skin's surface area, salicylic acid permeates deeper into the pores to remove the accumulation, producing an oxygen-rich environment that's aggressive to microorganisms.
Try to find a salicylic acid cleanser with 2% concentration or higher, specifically for oily skin kinds. If you have sensitive or dry skin, begin with a reduced dose and use it much less commonly. Always read the tag very carefully to comply with application instructions.
2. Breaks Down Sebum
As a keratolytic, Salicylic acid aids scrub the skin by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells with each other. This enables the dead skin cells to drop more conveniently, which consequently can help unblock pores. This is what makes it such an effective ingredient for dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, particularly when used in conjunction with various other treatments that work to minimize sebum production.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid additionally has comedolytic homes that help break down sebum. This is what makes it so reliable at treating blackheads and whiteheads, as well as various other non-inflammatory acne.
Just like any therapy, it is essential to always adhere to the directions on your item's packaging. Start with a percentage and gradually raise your usage as your skin acclimates to the active ingredient. This will aid prevent any dry skin or sensitivity that might occur. Bear in mind, it can use up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.
3. Clears Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it passes through deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that creates dead skin cells progeskin biologique to amalgamate with each other. This makes it simpler for them to fall away and lowers pore obstructions that lead to shallow acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red acnes (pimples).
Due to its ability to pass through the pores, Dr. Negbenebor recommends utilizing it in a serum, as opposed to a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its effectiveness. Make sure to read the component label very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or natural products you're utilizing, as some can connect with salicylic acid.
To discover an excellent product, try to find one that contains salicylic acid in a greater focus-- 2 percent or higher-- or that incorporates it with one more anti-inflammatory and exfoliating active ingredient, such as sodium PCA and salt hyaluronate, which helps stop the drying impacts of the salicylic acid. A favorite of lots of reviewers with delicate skin, this Paula's Choice 2% salicylic acid product contains maltobionic acid to scrub without aggravating the skin.
4. Decreases Soreness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce inflammation & irritability connected with acne blemishes. It likewise softens & loosens up dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove dead skin cells, flakes & debris that obstruct pores.
While over-the-counter focus of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater concentrations with a prescription. A skin doctor can suggest the right focus 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 skin care items with this ingredient or have oily skin, try making use of a lower concentration initially. You can gradually work up to a more powerful focus, however it is very important to utilize your product as guided, i.e., daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's likewise advised to utilize your products just at night, since salicylic acid can transfer onto materials & tarnish them.
