Thinking of including salicylic acid in your routine? Here’s a guide on what salicylic acid is and its benefits.
Salicylic acid occurs naturally in willow bark, sweet birch bark, and wintergreen leaves, but it is used in a synthetic form in skincare. It is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) used in skincare products, and it’s an FDA-approved ingredient for the topical treatment of acne. With its ability to deep clean excess oil from pores and reduce oil production, salicylic acid is the perfect solution for oily skin. It prevents whiteheads and blackheads by keeping pores clean and unclogged. Salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin and has anti-inflammatory qualities, which is ideal for treating psoriasis.
Salicylic acid works best with a hydrating moisturizer, and the duo would make sure that your skin is hydrated and would simultaneously minimize breakouts. You can opt for Joanna Vargas’s SUPER NOVA retinol SERUM containing salicylic acid and pair that with their daily moisturizer for hydration. It is packed with vitamins and minerals that would provide deep hydration to your skin and help turn back the clock. They also offer the best spa in Los Angeles. Visit their website to explore a range of products and services specially curated for targeting specific skin concerns.
Benefits of salicylic acid
- Exfoliates the skin
Salicylic acid penetrates the skin’s pores to remove dead skin cells and flaky skin accumulated on the skin’s surface, clogging pores. Furthermore, salicylic acid removes dirt, bacteria, and grime from the skin’s surface to keep pores clear. Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells and bacteria, which leads to improved skin health and appearance.
- Helps combat acne
Salicylic acid is very effective for acne-prone skin. It is highly efficient in removing whiteheads and blackheads, especially around the nose. Because of its unique ability to break apart the bonds between skin cells in the outer layers, salicylic acid also reduces acne breakouts.
- Reduces sebum and oil production
A common cause of blemishes is oily skin, which clogs pores and prevents skin shedding. Furthermore, excess oil on the skin’s surface can trap germs and allergens, aggravating breakouts. Salicylic acid breaks down fatty compounds on the skin’s surface, like natural oils and sebum. It is ideal for oily skin because it helps to reduce excess oils and sebum production.
- Salicylic acid is an effective astringent
In addition to its other benefits, salicylic acid also works as an astringent. It helps in minimizing the appearance of pores and reducing oiliness.
Tips for using salicylic acid
- Patch test before using the product
To ensure that you don’t have an adverse reaction, patch test salicylic acid product before adding it to your skincare regime. To begin, cleanse and dry your skin, and you can then test a small amount of the acid on your skin. If you do not experience any tingling, redness, or dryness within 24 hours, you can add the product to your routine.
- Use it as a spot treatment for acne.
Use salicylic acid gel or serum as a spot treatment on blemishes or pimples. Initially, you should avoid using salicylic acid at high concentrations on your entire face. Slowly introduce the product, and with time, you can increase the concentration that suits your skin.
- SPF is a must
Salicylic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. You should apply your sunscreen rigorously and reapply every 2-3 hours.
