Wonder using topical salicylic acid for acne? Check this out first!
Are you suffering from constant acne breakouts on your skin? The more you prolong the course of treatment, the more it is going to add up to your skin struggles. Lack of nutrients in the diet, hormonal changes in the body, pollution, and sun damage may be causing these. However, with the right skin care habits, you can manage your skin better. Keep on reading to learn the benefits of salicylic acid for acne and how to use it in your skincare.
The topical application of acne in the form of cleansers, toners, packs, and serums may reduce acne, blackheads, and whiteheads on your skin. Besides, it is a fantastic ingredient that can reduce oil production and pore size. Read and find out which ingredient won the battle of salicylic acid vs. benzoyl peroxide to battle acne.
Are acids good for the skin?
You may be wondering that using acids can cause damage to the skin. But, using them in prescribed quantities and concentrations may be just the right solution for your skin problems. Many acids, such as alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy, may be acids for skin lightening. They unveil the skin’s new layer and leave it looking bright. Moreover, you may use stronger acids such as ascorbic acid, AKA vitamin C, for a glowing complexion.
Acids may seem intimidating, but they give a generous glow to the skin. You may pick the Bright Beauty Peeling Pads by Mello Beauty that is easy to use. Moreover, it contains exfoliating acids in skincare, such as mandelic acid and glycolic acid. These acids have a mild exfoliating effect without causing any peeling or dryness in the skin. Salicylic acid is a gentle beta-hydroxy acid that keeps the pores clean and reduces zits.
How does salicylic acid work on acne-prone skin?
Acne is usually caused when the hair follicles on your skin are under attack from oil, blackheads, dead skin cells, and dirt. Salicylic acid has a penetrative power to dissolve these impurities from the skin. Within four to six weeks of salicylic acid treatment, your skin will feel clear. You may see the reduction in pores and filing of them with gunk.
Considering the current skin condition, you may choose the dosage of salicylic acid in the topical application. Initially, you may use the topical cream or gel to get used to it as a spot treatment for your skin. This will increase cell turnover and reduce scars and acne. You may use it up to two to three times a day to benefit from it. There are several percentages such as 0.5, 1-3, and 3-6 for regular use, safe for the skin.
What are the side effects of salicylic acid?
It is a safe ingredient in the doses mentioned above and does not cause any such irritation on the skin. The topical application is safe for new moms and pregnant women. Your skin may appear dry and feel tingly with itching due to the increased cell turnover. The peeling of the skin is manageable with a good non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the worst-case scenarios, there may be a reaction causing hives. So, a patch test is advisable before using it on a daily basis.
Considerations before using active ingredients?
The skin reacts differently to active ingredients depending upon the type and current condition. Active ingredients are the best solution to get quick results. However, they do have a downside that you will have to take more care of your skin. A heavy-duty sunblock and protective masks for the skin will help in dealing with any side effects.
If your skin is already too dry, salicylic acid may not be the best choice for you as it dries the skin even more. Besides, a very long term use of salicylic acid may cause toxicity in your body. It is also not recommended for larger body parts to prevent toxicity. Also, avoid the application near the eyes and lips to avoid any cracks in these sensitive areas.
How to pick products with salicylic acid?
You may pick a mild salicylic acid cleanser to get rid of oil and sebum from your skin gently. In the next step, use a balancing toner to prepare the skin for effective moisturization. You may choose a light salicylic acid-based moisturizer or serum to apply over your face generously. The point is not to overdo with the active ingredients.
Too many active ingredients may aggravate and sensitize your skin. So, ensure that you are balancing your skin with one active and other repairing products. Also, use a fragrance-free and paraben-free moisturizer and sunblock to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Skip any products that you might be allergic to.
On alternate days you may use salicylic brightening pads and exfoliating creams to get rid of the dead skin. The exfoliation will remove any dullness from the skin and make it glow naturally. It will effectively reduce the fine lines and open pores that may be causing acne.
Unfortunately, there is nothing that entirely cures acne. You have to be consistent in managing your skin the best way possible. Salicylic acid for acne is quite evident in reducing the number of breakouts and scars over extended use. With other skincare products in your regime, you will find your skin texture improving. In our next article, read about the retinol skin benefits. You may incorporate retinol skin products in your regime for a youthful appearance.