The exfoliating properties of salicylic acid boost skin cell renewal. This, in turn, stimulates collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Like AHAs, salicylic acid exfoliates the skin, which can reduce signs of aging.
Salicylic acid does not give you wrinkles, but if you overuse it, it can dehydrate your skin by stripping away too much of the protective sebum on the surface of your skin. Too much oil can lead to blocked pores, but not enough oil can create dehydrated skin, as it can lead to too much transepidermal water loss.
Salicylic acid helps to promote the formation of collagen, an important structural protein that decreases in our skin as we age. Improved collagen production means a plumper, less saggy skin with fewer fine lines and wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid can significantly decrease the depth of wrinkles and enhance skin firmness and elasticity. One 2014 study involved women applying hyaluronic acid topically, twice daily, for 8 weeks.
According to Mudgil, salicylic acid is best suited for those with oily skin and superficial acne. For those with dry, eczema-prone, or sensitive skin, the drying ingredient could be too harsh and lead to irritation.
Over-the-counter treatments
Lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid can also help to moisturize the skin and improve the skin's appearance. For crepey skin on your arms or legs, look for a body moisturizer that contains ammonium lactate like Lac-Hydrin or AmLactin.
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.
Retinoid or Retinol and Salicylic Acid
But on its own, each can dry out the skin, so together they should be combined with caution. The risk is overdrying, which can lead to irritation and make the situation worse.
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.
"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.
Hyaluronic acid is best if they're looking to moisturize dry skin, while retinol works better by encouraging better skin by boosting collagen production. They have several benefits that can work in tandem for better results, though patients need to be careful with the exact formulations they use.
Salicylic acid may be used morning and night. Because it's so gentle, it may also be applied as a midday spot treatment.
One of the most popular Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), salicylic acid is an ultra-common ingredient in many acne fighting products, and is well-suited for both day and night.
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.
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.
Dr. Kassouf recommends retinol topical creams to help reduce that crepey look. Retinols help restore skin's elasticity and thicken collagen (which gives our skin its structure) as well as elastin (which gives our skin its stretch).
Stand with elbows at shoulder height and bent to 90 degrees, forearms parallel to the floor with 1 weight in each hand and palms facing down. Without moving your elbows, raise forearms perpendicular to the floor, palms now facing forward. Next, press the weights overhead, extending arms. Slowly reverse the move.
Adults—Use the 12 to 27% topical solution one or two times a day. Children 2 years of age and older—Use the 12 to 27% topical solution one or two times a day. Children younger than 2 years of age—Use is not recommended.
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.
Botox and fillers are some of the most common procedures used to reverse wrinkles. The treatments are done by a professional, but they are short and don't require expensive equipment or extensive preparation — you can go to the spa for one of these treatments and be headed back to work after the procedure.