“Clearing away the useless and dry pores and skin on the floor permits salicylic acid to function extra successfully in clearing clogged pores, holding oil at bay and stopping blemishes,” confirms Dr Murad.
2. Salicylic acid for soothing psoriasis
Psoriasis is a standard autoimmune pores and skin situation that may result in scaly patches on the knees, elbows, higher physique and scalp.
“Psoriasis causes an acceleration in pores and skin cell turnover,” Dr Thomson explains. “Salicylic acid can be utilized to deal with it as a result of its operate as a keratolytic, which suggests it could break down the bonds holding the pores and skin collectively, making it softer and permitting it to shed extra simply.”
Salicylic acid additionally has anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it is typically present in prescription lotions for psoriasis in addition to many over-the-counter lotions.
3. Salicylic acid for exfoliating keratosis pilaris bumps
Keratosis pilaris, generally known as ‘rooster pores and skin’, is characterised by small, arduous bumps on the higher arms, thighs and cheeks.
“The bumps are attributable to a buildup of keratin, a key protein in pores and skin, hair and nails,” says Dr Thomson. “In keratosis pilaris, the keratin types a scaly plug that blocks the opening of the hair follicle, resulting in patches of tough, bumpy pores and skin.
“Salicylic acid may help enhance the looks of keratosis pilaris over time by softening and exfoliating these keratinous pores and skin bumps,” he continues.
What’s the distinction between salicylic acid and glycolic acid?
Each salicylic and glycolic acids are classed as hydroxy acids and chemical exfoliants. However that is the place the similarities finish.
“Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) whereas salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) with larger molecules as it really works superficially on the pores and skin’s floor,” says GP and aesthetician Dr Ahmed El Muntasar.
“Glycolic acid has a lot smaller molecules so goes deeper and stimulates collagen manufacturing.”
Can you employ salicylic acid day by day?
You should utilize salicylic acid day by day nevertheless it depends upon the product. Pores and skin specialist and A-list facialist, Shane Cooper, says: “If it is a small quantity of salicylic acid in a cleanser, for instance, it’s usually OK for on a regular basis use. However whether it is in another skincare product, I might suggest utilizing it carefully as salicylic acid can generally irritate the pores and skin.”
In sensible phrases, this implies utilizing a salicylic acid serum as soon as every week when you have delicate pores and skin; in any other case begin with 3 times every week and work up from there, provides Shane.
Can salicylic acid harm your pores and skin?
With a couple of exceptions, salicylic acid is usually tolerated by most pores and skin varieties. However there’s one key aspect impact to concentrate on. “Salicylic acid will be drying,” says Debbie, “which can result in flaking after which irritation.”
It is also necessary to put on sunscreen whereas utilizing salicylic acid-based skincare. “Salicylic acid, like retinoids, can enhance your pores and skin’s sensitivity to the solar and result in faster sunburns and pores and skin harm,” Dr Thomson notes. “Use a sunscreen with an SPF of not less than 30, even on cloudy days, and restrict solar publicity whereas utilizing merchandise with salicylic acid.”
Who ought to keep away from salicylic acid?
Whereas salicylic acid is great for these with oily and acne-prone pores and skin, not all pores and skin varieties can tolerate this ingredient. “You shouldn’t use salicylic acid if you’re allergic to aspirin,” warns Shane. “These with tremendous delicate pores and skin or rosacea might also need to keep away from it, as salicylic acid may cause irritation.”
Total, salicylic acid is secure to make use of throughout being pregnant, says Shane. “However bear in mind that pores and skin can change and change into extra delicate because of hormone adjustments,” he provides.
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