Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment
Salicylic acid is a mild acid acne treatment available in over-the-counter products at a concentration of 2%. It works as a keratolytic agent, which means, it encourages the sloughing of dead skin cells. It's a safe, effective treatment for mild acne, oily skin, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (extra pigment that can make your skin darker in some areas than others). Glycolic acid is a similar compound; however glycolic acid is not recognized by the FDA as an acne treating ingredient, though it works similarly to clear pores.
How does it work? The acid works by penetrating the follicle and dislodging the comedomal plug from the lining of the follicle - or, it unplugs the pore. Result? Your body returns to its normal skin-cell replacement cycle. It can also prevent lesions.
Salicylic acid acne treatment does not have any effect on the production of sebum (skin oil) or the ability to kill P. acnes bacteria like benzoyl peroxide. P. acnes bacteria is what causes acne. Like many other topical acne treatments, salicylic acid must be used continuously, even after your acne lesions have healed, to keep the pores from clogging. Stop the treatment and your skin returns to its old, bad cycle.
You can find salicylic acid in many over-the-counter acne treatment products, including lotions, creams, alcohol-based solutions and medicated pads. As with any product, read the label carefully and follow the instructions for proper use.
Salicylic acid does have side effects, although they are not as severe as other remedies. It can be less irritating than benzoyl peroxide, but in some ways not as effective. In fact, it can be found as the active ingredient of gentle formulations of popular acne medications, like Proactiv® , to provide an alternative for those with sensitive skin or sensitivities to benzoyl peroxide. The most common side effect of salicylic acid is mild dryness. If your skin is visibly scaly, apply a light oil-free moisturizer. Skin irritation is also common, but children are more likely to experience it. If you experience mild irritation, try decreasing the frequency of use. If irritation is severe or persists, even with infrequent application, discontinue use.
Since salicylic acid has a direct impact on your skin, it's best to avoid the following products during use:
*Abrasive soaps or cleansers
*Alcohol-containing preparations
*Any other topical acne treatment or preparation containing a peeling agent (benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, sulfur, or tretinoin)
*Cosmetics or soaps that dry the skin
*Medicated cosmetics
*Other topical skin medicine
If you are pregnant, it is important you contact your doctor before using salicylic acid acne treatments, as it is chemically related to aspirin. While current data is inconclusive regarding potential risks, your doctor may advise you to avoid using it while pregnant.
Proactiv
Proactiv, the world's #1 acne system, uses Combination Therapy® to directly target the root causes of acne - bacteria, oil production, and dead skin cell build up - to heal and soothe acne-prone skin. Developed by leading dermatologists, Drs. Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields, Proactiv clears existing blemishes, treats inflammation and redness, and prevents new breakouts before they start.
Get the smooth, clear, healthy-looking skin you deserve with Proactiv.
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