Joanna Kula is the Lead Esthetician at Rescue Spa in Philadelphia. It has a slightly thick and oily texture that will not dry out your skin, but since it’s also an exfoliator, it also won’t contribute to excess oil production that can potentially clog your pores and create more acne breakouts. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Yes, you can use salicylic acid in mild concentrations and combined with other soothing ingredients everyday, however, your skin doesn’t need that much exfoliation. Determine what type of product you have, then apply it correctly so the acid can treat your skin. Salicylic acid is an effective treatment for many common skin issues, including acne, dandruff, warts, psoriasis, and more. How To Use Salicylic Acid For Acne – The Right Way You can do heavy peels once every few weeks (such as 15% salicylic acid), and while this is effective – consistent daily use is much easier, safer, and more beneficial. Do you use salicylic acid as part of your routine? Test your skin for an allergic reaction. A salicylic acid cleanser enhanced with barrier-strengthening ingredients like ceramides such as CeraVe Renewing SA … It has a nice and light texture, isn’t heavy on the skin, and many people are tolerating it pretty well. The chemical works because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and acne marks. Exfoliating daily, and thus constantly removing these mature cells may potentially damage your skin barrier and lead to irritation, sensitivity, and all sorts of skin problems. Use gentle circular hand motions to rub it in. Make sure your skin dries completely before you place the plaster. It sounds like magic in a bottle, but what is it really? Additionally, many people believe that salicylic acid requires an acidity level of 4 or lower to effectively exfoliate the skin. Salicylic acid is my favorite ingredient in skincare products and one ingredient I know I can never go wrong with, no matter the size of my pimple or the severity of my breakouts. Choose a test patch of skin in a neutral area that people can’t easily see. Meaning wash your face with a salicylic acid cleanser in the morning. Salicylic acid is most useful when it comes in the form of a toner, exfoliating solution, or serum, and should always be followed up with occlusive moisture to help create a nice and thick barrier to help the skin retain moisture. Rub for at least 10-20 seconds, so the acid has time to penetrate your skin. The mature cells that sit tightly packed on the surface of your skin are a part of what’s called NMFs or natural moisturizing factors, therefore, they play an important role in helping your skin retain moisture. Do not apply to areas of irritated skin, inflamed skin, or to open wounds. You can learn more about me here and you can also follow me on Twitter. The 1% BHA lotion by Paula’s Choice is the perfect product for you if you are a beginner in chemical exfoliants, but also if your skin is dehydrated, sensitive, and irritated. Salicylic acid can be a very temperamental ingredient on its own and you should not use it with active ingredients such as retinols or other alpha-hydroxy acids. When the debris is broken apart, it’s much easier to remove and manage, and can proactively curb acne formation. This can be very drying on the skin and may potentially lead to irritations and sensitivity. This article was co-authored by Joanna Kula. References. Ways to Use Salicylic Acid Since salicylic acid is present in so many products, no singular way exists for using this ingredient. How to apply salicylic acid Salicylic acid is best incorporated into a cleanser for gentle exfoliation, or a treatment serum designed to keep blemish-prone skin balanced and under control… It is synthesized from willow bark trees which is the same place aspirin comes from. This article was co-authored by Joanna Kula. Which salicylic acid product is your favorite? With over 8 years of experience in skin care, she specializes in transformative facial treatments. Pinterest Shop Neutrogena Oil-Free … Pat your skin when you dry it, rather than rubbing it, so you don't stress it before application. the 4 things everyone needs in their skincare routine, Regular Strength 2% Salicylic Acid Exfoliator, COSRX BHA and the Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant, The Complete Guide To Using Glycolic Acid, 10 Things That Completely Changed My Skin. Murad Time Release Acne Cleanser.Not only does this cleanser have a 0.5 percent concentration of salicylic acid, it … Pat your skin when you dry it, rather than rubbing it, so you don't stress it before application. Don't worry if you see a thin film on top of your skin. Don’t panic when this happens as this is almost always the case with an active ingredient. Several studies have shown that neutralized forms of salicylic acid are just as effective, meaning salicylic acid with a higher pH level can give you the same results without irritating the skin. Also, one very important thing to pay attention to is that you can have an allergic reaction to salicylic acid, therefore, if you happen to be allergic to aspirin, salicylic acid is definitely not for you. So, today, I will be giving you the complete guide to using salicylic acid and how to make the most out of this godsent ingredient. It is excellent for oily and acne-prone skins that are super sensitive. 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