Acne and Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid mainly is a “fruit acid” and is naturally derived from fruits and plants. Salicylic acid comes from the family of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). Salicylic acid is a key ingredient in manufacturing of several over-the-counter acne products.
Salicylic acid loosens up the binding substance on the skin surface and peels off dead skin cells. It gels well with the oil and can go deep inside the clogged pores and by doing this it hastens the development of new skin cells and keeps the pores clear and prevents future acne outbreaks.
How Salicylic Acid Works On Acne?
Over-the-counter acne treatment products that uses Salicylic acid as their primary ingredient are not that effective in treating non-inflammatory acne like whiteheads and blackheads. Though it can’t control excessive oil production which causes acne but works well in removing oil on the skin’s surface to give it a smoother feel.
Several non-prescription low strength formulations having Salicylic acid in them are not that effective in treating acne, however it works synergistically when combined with other chemicals and absorbs benzoyl peroxide and several essential acne-fighting chemicals in the skin.
Several skin specialists recommends formulations having higher concentration of Salicylic acid for skin rejuvenation, age lines removal and for acne treatments. The results with stronger formulations are much better than the weaker over-the-counter treatments when it comes to blackhead and whitehead removal.
Salicylic acid is present is several reputed brands including PanOxyl, Neutrogena, and Clearasil, but you also can get it in cheaper brands as well.
The strength of salicylic acid might vary from 0.5% to 2%, and generally is available in the form of lotions, astringents, cleansers face washes and creams. Salicylic acid is sold as a singular component as well as in combination of other ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide and sulfur. Creams and lotions having salicylic acid delivers best results than any other form.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid
Several cosmetics manufacturers lists benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid as two separate products in their merchandising lines, to boost sales and the two components combines to form one “complete acne solution” package. The combination of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide gives much better results than separately.
Many of the products you see being marketed in TV infomercials often don’t live upto the expectation of the consumers even hence when you consider getting of such product try and get a more affordable version from the local pharmacy or supermarket then going for the expensive one.
How To Use Salicylic Acid For Acne Treatment?
Salicylic acid-based formulations are quite effective in curing blackheads and whiteheads and hence are more suitable for pre-teens and teenagers who are more prone to mild acne. Whereas if you are dealing with moderate or advanced acne then you will be needing a much stronger formulation than salicylic acid alone.
You should apply a small portion of Salicylic acid on acne-affected area of your skin sparingly, and if you find not working well for you then its better to use a benzoyl peroxide-based formulation in addition to the present regimen.
Skin dryness and irritation can be experienced after the application of Salicylic acid, and if you are using it in combination with benzoyl peroxide products, then these effects can be even severe. So its better to apply non-oil based moisturizing cream on the dry area of the skin.
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