What Is Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid that occurs as a natural compound in plants. It is obtained from the bark of the white willow and wintergreen leaves.
It has direct activity as an anti-inflammatory agent and acts as a topical antibacterial agent due to its ability to promote exfoliation.
This medicine is available without a prescription. Some of these preparations are available only with your doctor's prescription.
This product is available in the following dosage forms:
- Gel/Jelly
- Solution
- Soap
- Pad
- Liquid
- Cream
- Ointment
- Foam
- Lotion
- Patch, Extended Release
- Bandage
- Shampoo
We will discuss how salicylic acid works, what it does for the skin, and why it's the best ingredient in the battle against breakouts.
What Is Salicylic Acid Mainly Used For
Salicylic acid topical is used to treat many skin disorders, such as acne, dandruff, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis of the skin and scalp, calluses, corns, common warts, and plantar warts, depending on the dosage form and strength of the preparation.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows manufacturers to make acne-fighting claims for salicylic acid-containing products if they use it at levels between 0.5 percent and 2 percent, so that is the full range you'll find in over the counter skin-care products. For chemical peels performed at the dermatologist's office, the concentration may be as high as 20 to 30 percent.
What Does Salicylic Acid Do For The Skin
Salicylic acid can get deep into your skin to do its job. This quality is precisely what makes it such a potent ingredient for targeting acne, especially for blackheads and whiteheads.
Once it penetrates the skin, salicylic acid dissolves skin debris that clogs pores, acts as an anti-inflammatory, and also helps red, inflamed pimples and pustules go away faster.
The ingredient can penetrate so deeply into skin that actually breaks down the connections between skin cells. Salicylic acid aids in removing and loosening these skin cells and helps to dissolve the blackheads.
Can Salicylic Acid Damage The Skin
You can actually use too much salicylic acid. The primary negative side effect of salicylic acid is its ability to irritate and dry skin in those who are very sensitive or those who overuse it.
Depending on the concentration and the number of applications, some people may experience dryness, peeling, redness, and some skin irritation.
Can You Use Salicylic Acid Everyday
Salicylic acid-based products are safe to use daily if used as directed and tolerated by your skin. If your skin type is dry or very sensitive, it's more likely that salicylic acid could cause some irritation.
Be sure to test the product on your skin every other day before committing to it on a daily basis.
When using products containing salicylic acid, it is important to use sunscreen. This is because this ingredient can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Takeaway
Salicylic acid is a key ingredient in many acne treatments. This is because it helps to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, reduce inflammation and has antibacterial properties. It is also gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.
If you are looking for a product to help treat your acne, you may want to consider one that contains salicylic acid.
Consult with our estheticians to know if salicylic acid is best for you at Dermava.com
