The use of skin exfoliants is essential for controlling the appearance of pimples. Salicylic acid is a powerful and multipurpose exfoliator that is frequently used in skincare products for pimples. Willow tree bark is used to extract salicylic acid, which is scientifically referred to as a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA)1. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids, which are soluble in water, BHAs are soluble in oil. This indicates that the exfoliant has the ability to penetrate oil, which is a contributing factor to pimples and clogged pores.
Can Salicylic Acid Help Reduce Pimples?
When germs, dirt, dead skin, and excess oil block pores, blemishes result. Because of this, people with oily skin may have breakouts more frequently. Because BHAs like salicylic acid may enter pores and extract oil and dead skin cells, they can effectively treat pimples. Salicylic acid might aid in making pimples less noticeable. Nonetheless, skin care products for pimples must target the many elements that contribute to breakouts in order to be successful.
How Does Salicylic Acid for Pimples Help?
Because of the many advantages of this chemical, salicylic acid (BHA) is advised for moderate acne-prone skin types. AHAs exfoliate skin similarly to BHAs. However, they are used to help improve skin texture and lessen the visibility of acne scars. This is why a BHA is advised for managing pimples as they appear. When used in acne skin care products, salicylic acid offers the following advantages:
1. Exfoliates dead skin2
Because salicylic acid is a keratolytic, it can dissolve dead skin cells' outer layers. This feature aids in clearing blocked pores of dirt that cause pimples. Salicylic acid can also rejuvenate dulled skin by promoting cell turnover.
2. Targets blackheads and whiteheads
Salicylic acid can help prevent future breakouts of blackheads and whiteheads on the skin in addition to treating those that are currently visible. It accomplishes this by lowering the quantity of dead skin cells that become stuck in skin pores3.
3. Removes extra grease4
Because salicylic acid dissolves in oil, it can dissolve the excess sebum that causes pimples. Its ability to dissolve in oil facilitates its penetration of the skin's surface and aids in the breakdown of blocked pores.
4. Helps with skin blemishes and scars5
Salicylic acid's characteristics may make it easier to deal with the redness and post-blemish marks associated with breakouts. All skin types can benefit from salicylic acid's mild nature.
Beyond only controlling pimples, salicylic acid has other skincare advantages:
Salicylic acid is a great choice for calming sensitive skin because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can lessen the redness and irritation linked to breakouts.
Salicylic acid opens pores and removes dead skin cells, which makes it possible for serums and moisturizers to penetrate deeper and function better.
Using salicylic acid on a regular basis can help make enlarged pores less noticeable, giving the skin a smoother, more refined appearance.
Also read to know more about 5 benefits of Salicylic Acid.
Does Salicylic Acid have any Side Effects?
Despite being generally regarded as harmless, salicylic acid may initially irritate skin. Additionally, in rare cases, it may remove too much oil, which might cause dryness and discomfort. Additional possible adverse effects include itching, peeling, or tingly sensation6. To minimize side effects, it’s crucial to start with products containing lower concentrations of salicylic acid and to follow up with a good moisturizer. Also, do not forget to do a patch test first: Test the product on a small area of your skin and keep an eye out for reactions.
To sum up, with its many advantages, including thorough pore cleaning, exfoliation, and oil management, salicylic acid is a potent ally in the battle against pimples. To prevent any negative effects, it must be used carefully, just like any other skincare item. You can better control breakouts and enhance the general health and look of your skin by using salicylic acid in a customized skincare regimen. Salicylic acid is a basic that is worth taking into account for acne-prone skin if you are looking to improve your existing skin care regimen.
We recommend checking out our wide range of Neutrogena acne based products, from scrubs, to moisturizers, to face washes, in order to help you with pimples and blemishes.
Check out our best sellers such as Neutrogena® Facial Wash Spot Controlling+ and Neutrogena® Spot Controlling+ Daily Serum which contain the goodness of salicylic acid and may help you clear spots and boosts skin radiance.
References
1 Hayat, S., Ahmad, A., & Alyemeni, M. N. (2013). Salicylic acid. Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing.
2 Arif, T. (2015). Salicylic acid as a peeling agent: a comprehensive review. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 455-461.
3 Yoon, S., Gianturco, S. L., Pavlech, L. L., Storm, K. D., Yuen, M. V., & Mattingly, A. N. (2021). Salicylic acid: Summary Report.
4 Grimes, P. E. (1999). The safety and efficacy of salicylic acid chemical peels in darker racial-ethnic groups. Dermatologic surgery, 25(1), 18-22.
5 Danielson, J. R., & Walter, R. J. (2005). Case studies: use of salicylic acid (Avosil) and hydrogel (Avogel) in limiting scar formation. Journal of burns and wounds, 4.
6 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4554394/