Salicylic Acid is one of the real basic products when it comes to fighting acne. Many of the products that you will find on the market as creams contain Salicylic Acid just make sure not to put too much on your skin.
Salicylic Acid is best on acne-prone and sensitive skin types. The pore-cleansing properties of salicylic acid make it a more effective comedone fighter. Those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate alpha hydroxy acids may find that they are able to use salicylic acid with good results. However, alpha hydroxy acid’s penetration into the deeper layers of the skin produce better anti-wrinkle and anti-aging benefits.
Look for concentrations of 1-2% in any salicylic acid product to assure on effective concentration. A 1% concentration would be better or sensitive skin types and a 2% concentration would be useful on stubborn acne.
Salicylic acid is an ingredient used in many over-the-counter acne medications. It is often found with pads as applicators (such as Stri-dex pads). It is also used to treat other skin disorders including dandruff, psoriasis, calluses, corns, warts, and more.
Acne is formed when skin cells inside hair follicles shed too fast and clump together, plugging up the follicle and causing a pimple. Salicylic acid helps slow down shedding of the cells inside the follicles, preventing clogging. Salicylic acid also helps break down blackheads and whiteheads.
Unless your doctor advises you otherwise, people should avoid the other over the counter medications I list: sulfur, resorcinol, or benzoyl peroxide, while using salicylic acid, as it may be overly irritating.
People often report a mild stinging when applying the product.
