There are two main types of chemical exfoliants: alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). Salicylic acid falls into the latter category. As a BHA, salicylic acid works to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can result in smoother skin for those with rough and bumpy skin.
Salicylic acid
This, in turn, will improve texture from reduced blemishes and inflammation. For these reasons, salicylic acid is particularly good for the treatment of keratosis pilaris.
Creams containing alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid or urea help loosen and remove dead skin cells. They also moisturize and soften dry skin. These creams are called topical exfoliants. Depending on their strengths, they are available with a prescription or as a nonprescription products.
Hyaluronic acid is the ultimate hero ingredient for dry complexions, quenching the skin with moisture and – more importantly – keeping it there. It also has the added benefit of making skin plumper and more glowy, which are often at the top of the wishlist for people with dry skin.
Salicylic acid helps to stimulate this natural cycle by encouraging the dead skin cells to slough away faster. It does this by disrupting the bonds between skin cells to help remove the dead skin. That's why using chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid is a key part of how to smooth and improve skin texture.
Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), offers several skin benefits, including to improve uneven skin texture, skin tone, and boost collagen production. It should be used with caution because of the potential for irritation and increased sun sensitivity.
Niacinamide may help with shrinking pores, improving skin texture, and preventing clogged pores by controlling the amount of oil your skin produces.
Glycolic acid: Derived from sugarcane, glycolic acid helps refine your complexion so it's smoother, softer and more evenly toned.
Salicylic acid can dissolve and break down keratin, a protein that can accumulate and block pores and cause disorders like acne and keratosis pilaris. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent. Due to its oil-soluble nature, it can reach deep within pores to exfoliate skin and clear clogged debris.
Typically, users can start seeing improvements in their skin texture and appearance within two to four weeks of consistent use. This makes it a go-to choice for those looking to enhance their skincare routine and see quick results. The effectiveness of glycolic acid depends on several factors.
Watch your skin, if you experience any irritation, discontinue using salicylic acid. If uneven skin tone and dark spots are your main concerns, niacinamide is the way to go. It inhibits melanin production, gently fading hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even skin tone.
Glycolic acid
That's because it's a strong exfoliant that works to smooth out your skin's surface and refine pores. It also helps with discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles. One of glycolic acid's biggest benefits, Stein says, is that with long-term use, it can boost collagen production.
Mandelic acid's powerful antibacterial properties team up with its gentle exfoliating, cell-turnover-activating abilities team up to defeat acne, dull skin, uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles. It does the latter by boosting collagen production, too, Dr. Marmur says.
Skin concerns: Because of their different modes of action, glycolic acid is generally better suited for addressing surface-level skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, uneven skin texture, and signs of aging. Salicylic acid is better suited for addressing acne, blackheads, and other types of clogged pores.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Alpha hydroxy acids – also known as AHAs – are a powerful ingredient that can really help improve skin texture.
Textured skin refers to a skin surface that is uneven or rough, rather than smooth and soft. This texture can be caused by a variety of factors including acne scars, enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles, as well as skin conditions like keratosis pilaris, which results in small bumps on the skin.
Niacinamide helps strengthen the skin's lipid barrier, which is crucial for maintaining moisture and protecting against environmental aggressors. By supporting the skin's natural content of ceramides and fatty acids, niacinamide helps to prevent transepidermal water loss, keeping the skin hydrated and resilient.
Mechanical Exfoliation: in contrast to chemical exfoliation, mechanical exfoliation removes dead skin physically. This technique may involve the use of a soft brush or a washcloth to gently rub in circles on the face. Most effective on normal to oily skin types, this tends to be more harsh than chemical exfoliation.