SALICYLIC ACID - BHA
Salicylic Acid is an oil-soluble acid, it can deep clean the pores by dissolving the dead skin cells and clearing them of any debris that can cause spots, breakouts, and blemishes.
Salicylic acid is one of the best ingredients for exfoliating oily/combination skin, especially if you get breakouts. It is found in everything from daily cleansers to overnight spot treatments.
WHAT IS SALICYLIC ACID?
Salicylic acid (SA) is a beta hydroxy acid that's naturally found in plants like willow bark. It's renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and acts as a chemical exfoliant, sloughing off dead skin cells.
One of its standout features is its ability to dissolve in oil, making it effective in penetrating oily pores. This makes it more suitable for treating breakouts compared to water-soluble AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid.
WHAT DOES SALICYLIC ACID DO FOR THE SKIN?
Salicylic acid helps to unclog pores by reducing both open and closed comedones, as well as calming inflamed lesions such as papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Its oil-soluble nature enables it to delve deep into the skin, breaking down the clumps of dead skin cells that block pores. Salicylic acid also reduces inflammation, helping to speed up the healing process for red, inflamed spots. Not only does it minimize blemishes and congestion, but it also helps fade dark marks left behind after breakouts.
Additionally, it can improve the appearance of sebaceous filaments, those little dark dots on the nose that can bother people. While it's normal for our skin to have them, using Salicylic Acid in our routine can enhance the overall clarity of the skin, making these spots less noticeable.
HOW DO I USE SALICYLIC ACID?
Salicylic acid comes in various products, so you can choose one that aligns with your skincare goals. Over-the-counter topical treatments typically range from 0.5% to 2% concentrations. I suggest opting for a leave-on product with 1-2% BHA and no alcohol or fragrance.
Regardless of the product, start by applying it to a clean face every other day, gradually increasing to once a day. You can use it twice a day if needed, but if you experience excessive dryness or peeling, reduce the frequency to avoid damaging your skin barrier.
SHOULD I USE SALICYLIC ACID OR BENZOYL PEROXIDE?
Benzoyl peroxide (BP) is another topical agent used for treating acne. It's an antiseptic that kills acne-causing bacteria. Both BP and salicylic acid are available over-the-counter, but I generally recommend Salicylic Acid over BP for individuals with sensitive skin or eczema. Those with existing skin conditions should consult a doctor or dermatologist to ensure safety.
Another consideration is that BP can bleach clothing, which may be a concern for some people. In that case, Salicylic Acid might be a better choice.
WHO SHOULD AVOID USING SALICYLIC ACID?
While salicylic acid offers many benefits, overuse can lead to irritation and dryness. Individuals with sensitive skin should choose products carefully, avoiding those with denatured alcohol, which can worsen dryness. If you're allergic to Salicylic Acid, it's best to avoid it altogether.
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