Salicylic acid belongs to a class of drugs known as salicylates. 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.
When using salicylic acid or other acne treatments, it may take 6-8 weeks to start noticing results. Anyone who does not see an improvement in their acne after this time may wish to contact a doctor or dermatologist for advice on alternative treatment options.
Dr. Shah notes that the concentration of ingredients in your acne product doesn't always affect how well they work, but it can. If you're having continued issues with your skin, it's possible the concentration of an ingredient like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide could be contributing.
It is safe to use products with salicylic acid every day, unless it is specified otherwise on the product usage guidelines or by your health care professional. CeraVe's SA Smoothing Cream and SA Smoothing Cleanser are suitable for daily use.
Salicylic acid
It's considered to be one of the best treatments for acne scars. You can add products with salicylic acid into your daily routine, or your skin care specialist may use it for less frequent chemical peels. It might take a few weeks to see a difference when using salicylic acid.
Can I apply moisturizer after using salicylic acid? Yes. Moisturizers can help hydrate and repair skin, making it a good step to do after using an exfoliating treatment with salicylic acid.
No, salicylic acid is not a skin lightening (as in whitening) agent and therefore, it cannot lighten your skin. However, since salicylic acid has the ability to exfoliate your skin's surface and remove dead skin cells, it can help give your skin a brighter more even complexion.
Salicylic acid may be used morning and night. Because it's so gentle, it may also be applied as a midday spot treatment.
Salicylic acid and vitamin C are both effective products on their own but, when combined, they can be even more beneficial. Whether you're looking to brighten your skin, reduce the likelihood of blemishes or just help slow down the skin's natural aging process, these ingredients may be just what you're looking for.
which will wash away overnight treatments and any oil or bacteria. After cleansing, follow with our Salicylic Acid 2% Daily Treatment. You'll be amazed as you leave it on for a few minutes as you can actually watch your pores get lighter and tighter – it's awesome. After 1-3 minutes, rinse face with cool water.
How often should you use salicylic acid? You are able to use salicylic acid twice daily, but only after your skin has built its tolerance. Oily and acne prone skin will benefit from frequent application, however precautionary actions should always be followed when using this potent ingredient.
By enriching products with 2% salicylic acid will result in the product being effective enough on the skin, clearing it of dead skin cell build-up, excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria. 2% is also considered the optimal amount for everyday use as it won't cause irritation or unwanted side effects.
Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area and rub in gently. If using the pads, wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser, then pat dry. Wipe the pad gently onto the skin to apply the medication, usually 1 to 3 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Wash hands after use.
BEWARE: Retinol + Salicylic Acid
“You do not want to use two potent ingredients that have the same effect on your skin. For example, retinol and salicylic acid can each cause skin irritation when used on its own,” Dr. Yu says. “Combining these items might make your skin feel dry and sensitive, especially to light.”
Salicylic acid works best on blackheads and whiteheads.
"Salicylic acid helps with the first cause by dissolving the type of skin debris that clogs pores and causes acne," he says. Therefore, salicylic acid is ideal for treating blackheads and whiteheads.
Yes, you can, BUT you will get better results if you use vitamin C and glycolic acid/salicyclic acid separately. We recommend using vitamin C in the morning and your AHA or BHA at night.
It has the same anti-inflammatory ingredients as aspirin, can help de-clog pores, and is also an exfoliator that helps get rid of dry skin to prevent future break outs (via HuffPost).
"Salicylic acid is oil soluble, meaning it's able to get inside pores to gently push out dead skin, bacteria, sebum, and any other pore-clogging debris." By removing that debris from your pores, your pores will appear smaller.
The primary negative side effect of salicylic acid is its ability to irritate and dry skin in those that are very sensitive or those who overuse it. So, it's recommended to use it once or twice a week. Salicylic acid can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause sunburn easily.
Signs it's not working: Your acne isn't going away and your skin is damaged. Why it might not be working: Not all acne is created equal — and if your acne is severe, salicylic might not be strong enough for you. “Cystic acne will need something stronger than salicylic acid,” says NYC-based dermatologist Debra Jaliman.
Salicylic acid creams that are only 1% or 2% in strength, you can leave it overnight on the skin and rinse it off in the morning. Remember to use a good broad spectrum sunscreen because salicylic acid can make your skin sensitive.
Precautions for Salicylic Acid Use
Also, because salicylic acid does affect pigmentations, darker skin types may want to avoid salicylic acid, particularly in high concentrations, to prevent unnatural-looking hypopigmentation.
Below the age of 2 years, the use of this active is not recommended. It is important to keep in mind that most usage of Salicylic Acid is specifically to tackle acne and other related concerns.
The best time to apply toner is right after cleansing your skin. You don't need to wash toner off after applying it to your skin. Toner with salicylic acid is one of the best ways to fight acne. Toner can be drying, so start by applying it a few times a week to see how your skin reacts.