Photo: Salicylic Acid Acne
Salicylic acid is a popular ingredient used in many over-the-counter acne treatment products. It is primarily used to treat acne cases that do not involve inflammation and is usually manufactured in the form of creams, lotions, cleansers, or treatment pads. Salicylic acid acne treatment works by correcting the abnormal process that usually causes acne. The strength of salicylic acid lies in the fact that it effectively penetrates hair follicles. This ability makes it a powerful exfoliant that helps shed dead cells from within the follicle and keep you pores free of excess oil or cellular debris. Thus, the clogging of your pores and acne breakouts on your skin will be significantly reduced.
Over-the-counter salicylic acid acne treatment products are available in various strengths, ranging from 0.5% to 2%. It is important that you follow the specific instructions that come with the product, of course. And it is also advisable to use only one type of product at a time. Whether you prefer lotions, creams, or pads does not really matter as long as you do not use two different types simultaneously. Doing so will only make your skin very dry and will not even accelerate the healing process. As soon as your breakouts subside and your skin is cleared, you may replace the cream or lotion with a facial wash or scrub for maintenance purposes. Of course, your facial wash should still contain salicylic acid as an active ingredient.
You would do well to note that salicylic acid acne treatment products have been known to cause a bit of stinging, peeling and flaking of the skin. But these common side effects can be easily addressed with an oil-free moisturizer. Using salicylic acid together with other skin products can also aggravate the side effects so make sure you stop any other form of treatment if you decide to start on salicylic acid. If the stinging or flaking becomes too bothersome, you can try to cut back your use to every other day instead of daily. If it still does not ease up after a few days, it is best to consult your doctor. Pregnant or nursing women should also refrain from using this treatment without doctor’s advice.