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.
Benzoyl Peroxide
According to Dr. Tanzi, benzoyl peroxide is a great alternative to salicylic acid because it helps with both bacterial overgrowth and clogged pores. It can be a bit drying though, so start with a lower concentration and work your way up.
"The primary negative side effect of salicylic acid is its ability to irritate and dry skin in those who are very sensitive or those who overuse it," says Dr. Nazarian.
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.
Are you imagining things or have you grown immune to your skincare? Dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum M.D. says that it is possible for some ingredients in your skincare products to become weaker over time through tachyphylaxis, the term for an eventual tolerance to a medication.
Benzoyl peroxide is a great alternative to salicylic acid. It combats more stubborn and severe forms of acne by unclogging pores and reducing bacterial growth on the surface of the skin.
As it turns out, tea tree oil does have some benefit for acne-prone skin – if you use the right concentration. However, conclusive research has not shown tea tree oil to be significantly better for acne-prone skin than for example a leave-on exfoliant with 2% salicylic acid.
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.
It is usually triggered by active ingredients that are used to treat the acne. It gets worse before it gets better. Some of these ingredients are retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs and BHAs (glycolic, malic, lactic, and salicylic acid).
"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.
AHAs and BHAs, such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids should never be used with Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an acid, too, and is unstable, so the pH balance will be thrown off by layering these ingredients together and might as well be useless.
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.
Acne treatments — especially those that contain active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid — are drying and a bit harsh on your skin. If you use too many treatments at the same time, your skin may become irritated, and you may actually suffer more breakouts as a result.
While there's technically no cure for acne, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide may offer relief and help clear up breakouts. If you aren't seeing results after six weeks, you may want to check in with your dermatologist. They may recommend stronger treatments, such as retinols or prescription retinoids.
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.
Be patient for one skin cycle, or about 28 days
Generally speaking, dermatologists say purging should be over within four to six weeks of starting a new skin care regimen. If your purge lasts longer than six weeks, consult your dermatologist.
Salicylic acid is the preferred ingredient for treating blackheads and whiteheads because it breaks down the materials that clog pores: excess oil. dead skin cells.
Vitamin C contains anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce the redness and swelling that comes with acne. The results are more pronounced when you use the vitamin topically. It, therefore, helps improve the appearance of acne wounds. It may help reduce hyperpigmentation.
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 helps cause the wart to gradually peel off. This medication is also used to help remove corns and calluses. This product should not be used on the face or on moles, birthmarks, warts with hair growing from them, or genital/anal warts.
While powerful on its own, studies have shown that Tea Tree Oil works well alongside other common pimple-fighting ingredients, both natural and lab-created. One of the best pairings is Tea Tree Oil and Salicylic Acid, because they work on two different levels.
Salicylic acid can be helpful for all types of acne.” Salicylic acid is a go-to OTC ingredient for acne since it dissolves the dead skin cells in clogged pores, helping treat existing acne and prevent future breakouts.
Sulfur works similarly to salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide in that it helps absorb excess oil production, but it tends to be gentler on your skin.
Salicylic acid serums are popular skin care products to treat acne and exfoliate skin, but they can also be expensive. However, you can make your own using salicylic acid powder, propylene glycol, and a carrier oil like grapeseed or avocado oil.