Salicylic acid is a vital component in many 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 disconnecting skin pores. Yet 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 consequently able to sink deep right into the skin, liquifying excess oil in addition to dead skin cells. This is what makes it such an efficient anti-acne treatment. It softens keratin, the protein that creates part of our skin framework, to ensure that completely dry, scaly skin easily sheds, 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 trapped, developing the excellent setting for acne to prosper in. Unlike water-based exfoliants, which only scrub the skin's surface, salicylic acid penetrates much deeper right into the pores to eliminate the build-up, developing an oxygen-rich setting that's hostile to bacteria.
Search 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 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 together. This permits the dead skin cells to drop more conveniently, which subsequently can assist unclog pores. This is what makes it such an effective active ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, especially when made use of together with other therapies that function to decrease sebum manufacturing.
Along with being an exfoliant, salicylic acid likewise has comedolytic homes that help 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 instructions on your product's product packaging. Begin with a percentage and slowly increase your use as your skin accustoms to the ingredient. This will certainly help stay clear of any type of dryness or level of sensitivity that may take place. Keep in mind, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to see a difference in your acne.
3. Gets rid of Pores
When you utilize an acne product with salicylic acid, it permeates deep into your pores and loosens up the "glue" that creates dead skin cells to amalgamate with each other. This makes it simpler for them to fall away and reduces pore obstructions that lead to surface acne, like blackheads, whiteheads, and small red acnes (pimples).
As a result of its capability to penetrate the pores, Dr. Negbenebor advises using it in a product, instead of a cleanser or body wash, to optimize its efficiency. Make certain to check out the ingredient tag very carefully and make note of any other prescription or nonprescription medications you take or natural products you're utilizing, as some can interact with salicylic acid.
To locate a great product, seek one which contains salicylic acid in a greater concentration-- 2 percent or greater-- or that integrates it with an additional anti-inflammatory and exfoliating ingredient, such as salt PCA and sodium hyaluronate, which aids prevent the drying out effects of the salicylic acid. A fave of several reviewers with sensitive skin, this Paula's Selection 2% salicylic acid lotion contains maltobionic acid to scrub without aggravating the skin.
4. Minimizes Redness
Salicylic acid is anti-inflammatory, which helps in reducing inflammation & irritability associated with acne imperfections. It also softens & loosens up completely dry, scaly skin, which can aid remove dead skin cells, flakes & particles that block pores.
While non-prescription concentrations of salicylic acid cap at 2% (for items that will be left on your face), it's offered in greater concentrations via a prescription. A skin specialist can advise the correct concentration to treat your acne, based upon your skin type and your experience with treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
If you're brand-new to skin care products with this component or have oily skin, try utilizing a reduced focus initially. You can progressively develop to a stronger focus, yet it is essential to utilize your product as guided, i.e., once daily. Or else, overuse can leave your skin super-dry & irritated. It's likewise advised to use your ultherapy beverly hills products just at night, since salicylic acid can transfer onto materials & tarnish them.
