Facial salicylic acid: the ally to effectively fight acne and pimples

Salicylic acid for the face is one of the most effective ingredients to fight acneic, oily or impure skin. We know how much pimples and blackheads disfigure the appearance of our skin in an unpleasant way, causing pain and being absolutely annoying. In some cases , can come to seriously affect the quality of life of those who suffer from it.Before proceeding with the reading of the article, there is a video to learn how to remove blackheads.

What is salicylic acid and what is it used for?

Salicylic acid (salicylic acid) it is an element that is obtained from the bark of the white willow, a tree whose scientific name is Salix Alba. Salicylic acid is used to develop various dermatological treatments capable of reaching the last layer of the epidermis, thus going very deep. This is why one of the most famous treatments that are done with this product is what it takes to fight the skin. acne.
It can be used to treat milder forms in which comedones predominate without the presence of cysts and nodules.
Among the main properties of salicylic acid we cannot fail to mention the antiseptic and antimicrobial action, as well as the exfoliating and cleansing action, which make the treatment appropriate to treat various pathologies and skin problems that cause thickening of the skin.
Salicylic acid is also used to treat psoriasis, especially that of the scalp:
using it in the form of a shampoo or lotion will act to restore the skin's normal barrier.

See also

10 perfect foods for acne and pimples!

Pimples on the chin: why they appear and how to treat them

Maskne: what it is and how to fight mask acne

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How does salicylic acid work on the face?

When the hair follicles become clogged due to dirt and excess sebum, the exit of the hair is blocked and a black dot can form, also called comedone. To this already compromised picture, strong bacterial growth can also be added, and it is precisely at this moment that salicylic acid comes in. How does it work?

  • Eliminates excess sebum by freeing the pores and eliminating blackheads; in this way the skin is softened.
  • Thanks to the antiseptic properties, bacterial growth decreases.

Subjects suffering from mild acne who started using salicylic acid, reported a noticeable improvement in the skin, which appears soft and purified, as dead cells are eliminated and all impurities are reduced: blackheads, pimples and stains and their re-appearance is prevented. In more severe acne cases, salicylic acid treatment may not be effective enough, but it can still help maximize the specific products you will apply.

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Facial salicylic acid: how to apply it?

Currently there are many products based on salicylic acid on the market in different formats: cleansing wipes, creams, lotions, gels, ointments, shampoos. The potency of the active ingredient varies from one product to another, so before choosing the product that best suits your needs, you must understand the seriousness of the situation. To treat acne, the most used formats are lotions, gels and creams. These are light, non-greasy and water-based cosmetics, perfect for oily, combination and impure skin.
Before applying a salicylic acid-based product to the face, it is important to follow the instructions on the package, without changing the recommended doses. In general, salicylic acid is applied directly to the skin, but should only be used on specific areas, avoiding applications on very large areas. Always avoid areas that are inflamed, infected or injured. It is always good to start with a single salicylic acid product, instead of combining several, and to prevent allergic reactions it is best to apply a small amount of the product to a small area of ​​the skin for about 3 days: if any unwanted effects occur , discontinue use of the product or consult a specialist.

The best products with salicylic acid: buying guide

NIP + FAB Salicylic Fix Concentrate Extreme 2% on Amazon for € 26.84
NIP + FAB Super Strength serum with salicylic acid is super effective to say goodbye to imperfections and reveal clean, fresh, purified skin. Contains:

  • Salicylic acid - visibly reduces the appearance of enlarged pores and oily skin
  • Niacinamide - Helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone
  • Lotus flower extract - supports the control of oil production

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Exfoliating scrub soap with salicylic acid on Amazon for € 5.99
This salicylic acid based soap softens the skin and removes warts.
It is specially formulated to prevent acne blemishes by eliminating unsightly pimples.
Contains apricot kernels that work with soap to thoroughly eliminate the oils and toxins that lead to acne. Leaves the skin completely clean and refreshed, without a trace of oiliness.

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Paula "s Choice liquid exfoliant with salicylic acid on Amazon for 14 €
REDUCES ACNE AND PITCHES: A fast absorbing liquid that removes excess dead skin cells and fights blackheads. Exfoliates dead skin cells both on the surface and deep in the pores for clearer, brighter-looking skin.
WITH SALICYLIC ACID / BHA: Exfoliant that helps remove dead skin from the surface and inside the pores, it is very effective in reducing pimples and blackheads. It also has emollient properties.

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Paraben-free salicylic acid cream on Amazon for € 17.99
Salicylic acid fights and prevents clogged pores as well as eliminating bacteria. It helps remove dirt, oil, impurities and excess sebum from the skin. This can cause a drying effect which further helps eliminate pimples
Salicylic acid has been used for centuries in skin care as an anti-inflammatory adjuvant. It helps the cells of the epidermis (outermost layer of the skin) to exfoliate faster
This cream helps to have a clear and healthy skin, in addition, it eliminates blackheads and spots.

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How long does the salicylic acid treatment last on the face?

To understand how long it takes for salicylic acid treatment, you must first consider how serious the problem is. In fact, everything depends on the product in question and on the pathology to be treated. In general, a product containing salicylic acid can be used several times a day up to several times during the week. As for the treatment of acne, you will have to rely on the advice of your doctor to really get the desired results. Furthermore, for an ingredient like salicylic acid to be effective, one must be constant and not expect miracles after the first application.

Contraindications related to the use of salicylic acid

There are contraindications related to the use of products containing salicylic acid, but in most cases they are mild and reversible. Usually these are local reactions, limited to the area where the treatment was applied. Among these, many people experience a some dryness and irritation of the skin, especially at the beginning and which will gradually disappear. If you notice an excessive dryness of the skin, you can try to reduce the frequency of applications, but always ask your doctor first. There are also more serious side effects related to the absorption of the product at an excessive concentration, and the most frequent consequences are headache, nausea and vomiting.

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Facial salicylic acid: advantages and disadvantages

Let's make a small recap to better understand the advantages and disadvantages of using salicylic acid.
PRO

  • It exists in different formats for different needs
  • Makes the skin soft
  • It has an exfoliating action
  • Treats mild acne
  • Maximize the action of other treatments
  • Prevents the appearance of blackheads, pimples and spots
  • It is a remedy available to anyone

AGAINST

  • It may not be effective enough for severe acne
  • The results will only be visible after several weeks
  • It can cause skin irritation
  • There can be serious side effects when used in a high concentration

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