When applied to the skin, salicylic acid may work by helping the skin to shed dead cells from the top layer and by decreasing redness and swelling (inflammation). This decreases the number of pimples that form and speeds healing.
Salicylic acid works to treat acne by unclogging blocked pores. It does this by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells so that they can release from the pore more easily, and breaking down oils, such as sebum. Salicylic acid also decreases the skin's sebum production, leading to fewer breakouts.
Salicylic acid is an exfoliating agent that will remove acne causing bacteria and even slough of dark spots along with other dead skin cells. Tip: Use a salicylic acid face cleanser and then a spot treatment infused with the ingredient for best results.
Acne treatment
People may be able to treat acne blemishes with topical creams, such as benzoyl peroxide. These products can help dry out the skin and get rid of acne-causing bacteria. Washing the face twice daily with a cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help treat certain types of acne.
It can take 6-8 weeks of consistent topical use of salicylic acid before you begin to see improvements. Remember - consistency is key for optimal results. Results will not happen overnight.
Salicylic acid has the ability to advance deep into your skin and break up the excess oil and dead skin cells. You may have seen salicylic acid in products that are meant to rejuvenate or brighten your skin. That's because it is used as a milder chemical peel for acne-prone skin or those wanting a less intense peel.
According to Ayodele, a chemical peel is also a great way to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as "it will help the skin to exfoliate quickly and fade the discolouration." Alpha-hydroxy-acids such as glycolic, lactic and mandelic acid work by dissolving the 'glue' that holds dead skin cells together, revealing ...
"If salicylic acid is an ingredient in your cleanser, it is fine to use it every day." However, if you are using an exfoliant that salicylic acid in the formula, Dr. Hu advises only using the product three times per week, to avoid over-exfoliating the skin and drying it out.
Glycolic acid is an effective exfoliant, meaning it can remove dead skin cells. It's well suited to reducing hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. If you have acne-prone skin, salicylic acid is usually a better option. It can get rid of excess sebum and prevent or treat acne.
It is an oil-soluble exfoliator and is often considered better than Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) for pore cleaning. When it comes to face wash or cleansers, 2% Salicylic acid cleansers are clinically proven to perform better than 10 % benzoyl peroxide (hero ingredient for acne) cleanser or soap for reducing acne.
“You can use a salicylic acid–based cleanser in the morning to unclog pores and avoid acne and a glycolic acid–based cleanser at night to exfoliate your skin and get rid of dead skin cells,” notes Jailman.
Although salicylic acid is considered safe overall, it may cause skin irritation when first starting. It may also remove too much oil, resulting in dryness and potential irritation. Other potential side effects include: skin tingling or stinging.
You get the maximum benefit when you adjust your skin to start using it twice a day. But, if you are sensitive to salicylic acid and using it up regularly left your skin dry, red, and peeling, then use it as a toner and leave it up for up to 30 seconds and then rinse off.
Salicylic acid clears pores, reduces swelling and redness, and exfoliates the skin when applied topically. It's considered to be one of the best treatments for acne scars.
Dark-skinned people should avoid deep salicylic acid peels, as they can cause hypo pigmentation, or skin lightening.
Might Lighten Dark Spots
Vitamin C-based skin care products may lighten patches that are darker than the rest of your skin, called hyperpigmentation. In one study, vitamin C applied to the skin for 16 weeks significantly cut down on these spots.
Blemishes refer to any discoloration, spot, or mark on your skin. They have many different causes, including acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and birthmarks. Some may be a sign of a serious condition like skin cancer.
Blemishes or dark spots caused by acne can be cured with pigment reducing actives available in the form of creams and serums.
Retinol: This can unclog pores and fade dark spots. You'll find benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinol in acne products that you can buy without a prescription. Retinol is a type of retinoid. Another retinoid that may be helpful is adapalene gel 0.1%.