Do you battle with irritating acne that keeps popping up and causing you pain? Perhaps it's time to incorporate salicylic acid into your skincare regimen. It is a powerful exfoliator that aids in removing impurities from the facial skin and provides numerous established skincare benefits. Knowing how to apply it topically or combine it with other skincare products is crucial.

What is Salicylic Acid?

Acids are typically seen as dangerous substances, and the majority of them actually are. But when some of them are properly and appropriately used, they could work wonders on the skin. These gentle, low-concentration organic acids can help with acne, age spots, hyperpigmentation marks, wrinkles, and skin tone by fading them. They gently exfoliate skin, unlike their physical equivalents, while nevertheless keeping your skin clear and smooth.

Salicylic acid is one such tried-and-true component found in skin care products. Due to the fact that it is made from willow bark, it is also known as beta hydroxy acid, or BHA. This anti-acne component is increasingly used in all acne-prone skin care regimens. Many common skin care problems can be treated with salicylic acid-based cleansers, toners, moisturizers, lotions, and gels.

Dermatologists attest to its power to combat tenacious skin problems, particularly acne and related scars. This advantageous acid, unlike AHA or Alpha Hydroxy Acid, is soluble in oil. It successfully penetrates the skin as a result and breaks down the intercellular bond between skin cells and pollutants. Thus, it treats whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples while gently opening up the skin pores.

It is an incredibly powerful component for oily and sensitive skin because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial characteristics. Even if it takes a few weeks for you to notice the effects, you can adjust the concentration to a lesser percentage if it bothers you. Typically, 2% to 5% is the concentration recommended by skin care professionals because it is both efficient and secure.

8 Benefits of Salicylic Acid on Face

Blackheads, whiteheads, and acne are frequently the result of excessive sebum production. It retains dust and contaminants and plugs skin pores. Salicylic acid is highly useful for persons with oily skin since it helps to clear the pores. This BHA can be used to clear your pores and get rid of scars and acne. As a result, it functions as a versatile skincare ingredient for the majority of skin types and issues.

Let's summarise benefits of Salicylic Acid on Face using the following examples:

1. Prevents Acne

Salicylic acid does not cause acne. Thus, it stops pores from catching dust. Furthermore, this mild face scrub inhibits the buildup of dead skin cells and excess oil below. Because of this, it is primarily employed in anti-acne skin treatments to get rid of skin imperfections.

2. Works as a Gentle Cleansing Agent

Salicylic acid has a variety of functions, but its cleansing ability is one that merits attention. It helps to wipe away leftover makeup and other skin-care product residue and tighten enlarged pores. Additionally, it promotes even skin tone and helps remove extra oil from the skin.

3. Removes Dead Skin Cells

Additionally, salicylic acid possesses hemolytic qualities. It becomes the most popular chemical peel when used appropriately. It aids in desquamation by permeating the dermal layers of the skin, removing dried-out and dead skin cells, and exposing the newer cells underneath. Regular use also increases cell turnover rate due to its exfoliating qualities.

4. Anti-inflammatory Agent

This oil-soluble substance's anti-inflammatory effects also aid in reducing inflammation and acne. It also has natural calming qualities and is effective on sensitive skin. Using Salicylic acid on face is frequently recommended by skincare professionals for use in face washes and lotions.

5. Brightens Tone

The condition of the skin can be ruined by prolonged contact with environmental pollutants. When dead skin cells and filth accumulate in the skin over time, the skin appears lifeless and drab. To expose the younger, healthier skin cells underneath, exfoliation is required. And this BHA does that function.

6. Decongests Pores

Do you understand how blackheads show up on skin? Sebum and immature skin cells accumulate in the skin pores throughout time. Whiteheads, blackheads, and acne can form as a result of these clogged pores. BHAs penetrate further and dissolve dead skin cells, whereas AHAs aid to improve skin texture, brighten tone, and expose fresher skin.

7. Fights Whiteheads

Salicylic acid targets whiteheads, a form of acne that develops when oil and dead skin cells get clogged up in the pores. This may block the pores and lead to the development of whiteheads on the skin. Utilizing a salicylic acid-containing treatment can aid in the fight against whiteheads by preventing oil and dead skin cells from getting clogged up in the pores.

8. Soothes Sunburns

Sunburns can also be helped by salicylic acid. Considering that sunburn can also be treated with sunscreen, it contains anti-inflammatory qualities that may assist to lessen the swelling and redness connected with sunburn. And in terms of salicylic acid and sunburns, keeping the skin hydrated can assist to stop peeling and burning.

Have you tried our Toxin-Free, Salicylic Acid-Enriched Products?

For a very long time, salicylic acid has been utilised in the skincare sector. Despite being a chemical, if used in low amounts, it is gentle and safe. In order to tackle problems specific to oily and sensitive skin types, we have created various ranges using salicylic acid.
Here are a few of our favourite ways to use this fantastic ingredient in skin care routines:

Greek Yoghurt Probiotic Super Dose Face Mask with Squalane and Salicylic Acid

Our Greek Yogurt Probiotic Super Dose Face Mask with Salicylic Acid is formulated to rapidly improve skin health and restore shine. It is loaded with nutrients to have calming and hydrating benefits. Greek yoghurt, rich in nutrients, and squalene work together to moisturise, plump, and preserve the skin's moisture barrier.

This nutrient-rich face mask calms stressed skin while replenishing the skin's natural protective barrier. It also nourishes skin with a clearly renewed shine and even tone while removing blackheads with a boost in brightness.

Ultra Clarifying Acne Treatment Face Oil with Licorice Root and Salicylic Acid

With Neem Acne Treatment Oil infused with Salicylic Acid, clear skin of outbreaks. With Ultra Clarifying Acne Treatment Face Oil, get rid of daily outbreaks. It includes potent antimicrobial oils that minimise the appearance of black spots and sebum production, such as Black Cumin Seed Oil and Tea Tree Oil. Salicylic Acid exfoliates face and clears pores, while Licorice Root and Turmeric Extract naturally brighten skin and drastically reduce dark spots.

This facial oil calms your skin while restoring its natural brightness, reduces the visibility of pores, and makes your skin smoother. By evening out the skin's tone and hydrating the skin with a deluge of moisture, it aids in enhancing the texture of the skin.

How to use Salicylic Acid on Face?

There are a lot of powerful skin care treatments that contain this BHA, or beta hydroxy acid. Even though it is gentle, it should only be used once each day. It can be used in either your morning or evening skincare routine, although the evening routine is preferable. This is due to the exfoliating properties of salicylic acid, which helps to cleanse pores and remove the layer of dead skin cells from the skin. Additionally, it's best to avoid applying it during the daytime because the skin's younger layer is more vulnerable to solar damage.

You must moisturise your skin because salicylic acid will open up your pores. Therefore, it is advised to employ hydrating or moisturising substances like hyaluronic acid. Your skin will feel smooth and revitalised after using it. However, it takes 8 to 10 weeks for the skin to start showing visible benefits.

In addition, chemical exfoliators revitalise the younger skin cells beneath the more photosensitive older ones. Therefore, it is advised to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin. Most skin care professionals typically advise SPF 30 for the best defence against sun damage.

What is the Recommended Form and Dosage for Skincare?

Different salicylic acid doses are required for various skin types. A dermatologist should always be consulted before beginning a topical salicylic acid regimen. They can suggest the dosage and concentration that are best for your skin type.

Different topical salicylic acid medications should have various doses to be helpful against acne, as advised by the Mayo Clinic.

• The minimal required is 0.5%-5% when used as a gel or soap, and it should be used at least once daily.

• Salicylic acid must be present in a lotion at a concentration of 1-2% and should be applied 1-3 times daily.

• It should have a concentration of at least 3-6% when used as an ointment and applied as required.

• It must be applied once daily as a serum or solution at a dosage of 0.5% to 2%.

Who should Avoid Salicylic Acid?

Regardless of your skin type, refrain from layering salicylic acid with any other products that include acids without first seeking professional advice. If misused, they can result in burns, damage, or scars. The other active components in your skincare products, such retinoids and antioxidants, should also be taken into consideration.

She says, "Particularly these compounds can amplify the effects of some acids causing blistering or scarring." "Let one active ingredient at a time interact with your skin. As a result, there is a lower chance of overstimulation or negative reactions.

Before introducing chemical exfoliants into your beauty routine, it is ideal to speak with a professional. Before regularly utilizing acids or chemical peeling treatments, it is imperative to get professional advice.

Salicylic Acid Side Effects and Dangers

Although topical salicylic acid is thought to be safe for use on the skin, some people may have certain negative effects.

It is totally typical to experience some purging after using salicylic acid for the first time. Purgings are skin outbreaks that take place as your skin adjusts to a new active component. Salicylic acid-induced purging could linger for four to six weeks until it resolves. Additionally, salicylic acid may remove too much oil from your skin, causing dryness and irritation.

Other potential side effects that may happen while using salicylic acid are:

• Stinging or tingling of the skin
• Pruritus or itching
• Peeling of skin
• Hives

A few instances of people experiencing hypersensitivity reactions while utilising salicylic acid have also been documented. Always conduct a patch test at least 48 hours before using any products containing salicylic acid. If you feel any discomfort, you should see a doctor.

Salicylic acid is acceptable for usage in children over the age of two, but it is advised that users be at least 18 to 20 years old. Younger people who use SA serum may be willing to take the chance of their skin becoming overly dry and itchy.

Additionally, several medications and salicylic acid may interact. It is advisable to speak with your doctor before including salicylic serum into your skincare routine if you are on any medications.

Conclusion

Salicylic Acid is a BHA that exfoliates and is oil-soluble. If taken in the proper concentration or quantity, it works effectively for skin types that are sensitive or prone to acne. It works to clear up acne, slough off dead skin cells, and combat bothersome indications of ageing skin. Be cautious when using it, though, as doing so incorrectly could result in dryness or itching of the skin.

You can also choose the Organic Kitchen non-harmful skin care line to incorporate salicylic acid's benefits into your beauty routine. Without the use of any harmful ingredients like sulphates, parabens, or mineral oils, we manufacture a wide range of skincare products.

References

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/952756/
https://europepmc.org/article/med/952756
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33070577/
https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/salicylic-acid-for-acne