Everything About Salicylic Acid For Skin: Benefits , Uses, And Side-Effects

We all are putting some sort of acid on our face while using skincare products whether intentionally or unknowingly. One of the widely used is salicylic acid despite the fact that it causes skin irritation. But the amazing benefits of salicylic acid for the skin overpower its side effects.

Learn more about this beta hydroxyl acid below and know why it’s called a magical ingredient for oily skin.

What Is A Salicylic Acid And Its Benefits?

Before we dive deeper into salicylic acid benefits, you must understand what it is and how does it work.

Salicylic acid is a colorless solid derived from a plant hormone. Chemically, it is a drug classified as salicylates and used for medicinal purposes to treat acne, dandruff, and other skin issues.

How Does It work?

Dead skin cells, dirt, and grime blocks the tiny pores on your skin that give birth to acne. Salicylic goes deeper into the skin and removes all the debris resulting in clear skin.

Also Read: Powerful Ingredients That You Need In Your Skincare

Benefits Of Salicylic Acid For Skin

This acid poses multiple benefits such as:

1. Deep cleans the skin and removes excess sebum
2. Clean pores and prevent whiteheads, blackheads, and acne
3. Helps your skin breathe and get more oxygen. More fresh air, less acne bacteria!
4. Peel off the dead skin cells
5. Soothes inflamed skin
6. Reduce redness, puffiness, and soreness
7. Treat psoriasis

Also Read: 5 Effective Monsoon Skincare Tips For Less Greasy Skin

How To Use Salicylic Acid For Skin?

Using it is very simple but one must know their skin type and dosage of salicylic acid. Experts recommend using a pea size for not more than 3 days to test its effectiveness. This also helps you identify any of its side effects such as:

• Itching
• Stinging sensation
• Dryness

These go off within few days because your skin is new to it but if the side effects continue for long, consult a dermatologist or switch to another product. But if everything is okay, use it as guided below:

1. As an exfoliant– Apply exfoliant consisting of salicylic acid twice a week only in the evening
2. Toner- You can also use it as a toner to clean your face. Limit the usage two times a day.
3. Treatment- Skincare products like face wash, moisturizer, and even sunscreen with salicylic acid works well for oily skin. However, get products free from chemicals like sulfate, phthalate, and paraben.

Apply all over the face except eyes, mouth, and lips. Avoid scrubbing too much and let the skin absorbs it.

Who Can Use?

People with acne-prone skin and oily skin can reap all the benefits of salicylic acid for the skin. However, it is not highly recommend for those with sensitive or dry skin.

[ Bonus Tip– Works best when mixed with benzoyl peroxide. ]

Warning!

Never directly apply any skincare acid on the face, use only products containing salicylic as one of the ingredients.

Doesn’t protect you from the sun so, do not expose your skin to the UV rays more often. Also, use a moisturizer right after the treatment. Make sure the moisturizer is oil-free.