Salicylic acid: presentation and uses for the skin

Dr Marc-André Doré

Monday, May 29, 2023

Salicylic acid is a common skin care ingredient used to treat acne and oily skin problems. It is also found in some products designed to treat other skin conditions such as warts and psoriasis. In this article, we'll explore the properties of salicylic acid, its uses for the skin, and its possible side effects.

What is salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark. It is fat-soluble, which means it can penetrate pores clogged with sebum and impurities. This fat-soluble property distinguishes it from other exfoliants such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are water-soluble and act primarily on the skin's surface.

Uses of salicylic acid for the skin

Treatment of acne

Salicylic acid is best known for its action against acne. It works in several ways to help reduce and prevent pimples:

Chemical exfoliation: salicylic acid promotes cell turnover by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This helps prevent the buildup of dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause pimples.
Pore cleansing: Due to its lipid solubility, salicylic acid penetrates pores to dissolve impurities and oil that can contribute to acne.
Anti-inflammatory effect: Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne.

Treatment of blackheads and whiteheads

Blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones) are non-inflammatory forms of acne caused by the buildup of oil and dead skin cells in the pores. Salicylic acid can help dislodge these blockages and prevent their recurrence by exfoliating the skin and dissolving impurities.

Treatment of warts

Salicylic acid is also used to treat warts, which are benign growths caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). It works by softening and exfoliating the skin, which allows the wart to be gradually removed. Treatment may take several weeks to several months, depending on the size and location of the wart.

Treatment of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. Salicylic acid can help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis by exfoliating and removing the flakes that form on the surface of the skin. It can also help reduce the inflammation and redness associated with this condition.

Treatment of Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition that causes small, rough bumps to appear on the skin, usually on the arms and thighs. While there is no definitive treatment for keratosis pilaris, salicylic acid can help alleviate the symptoms by exfoliating the skin and clearing clogged pores.

Potential side effects of salicylic acid

While salicylic acid is generally well tolerated, some people may experience side effects, including:

Skin irritation: using salicylic acid may cause redness, stinging or burning in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. It is important to start using products with a low concentration of salicylic acid and to carefully monitor your skin's reaction.
Dryness: Salicylic acid can also cause some dryness in the skin, especially when used in combination with other acne treatments. To minimize dryness, use a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type after applying products containing salicylic acid.
Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may be allergic to salicylic acid. If you experience any signs of allergy, such as rash, itching or swelling, stop using the product and consult a doctor.

Tips for using salicylic acid

Start slowly: If you've never used products containing salicylic acid before, it's best to start with a lower concentration and see how your skin reacts. You can gradually increase the concentration or frequency of use if your skin tolerates the product well.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions: Follow the instructions for use on the product label as they are designed to minimize side effects and maximize the effectiveness of the product.

Use sunscreen: Salicylic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Therefore, it is important to use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 when using products containing this ingredient.

Conclusion

Salicylic acid is a versatile and effective ingredient in the treatment of a variety of skin conditions, including acne, blackheads, whiteheads, warts and psoriasis. It works by exfoliating the skin, cleaning the pores and reducing inflammation. However, it is important to use salicylic acid with care and follow the manufacturer's instructions to minimize potential side effects, such as irritation, dryness and allergic reactions. Start slowly and adjust your use based on your skin's reaction. Remember to use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If you have any concerns or questions about using salicylic acid for your skin type, it is always best to consult a dermatologist.

When to get help?

If you suffer from acne or another skin problem, start by consulting a dermatologist who will guide you to the right products to use.

Consult Dermago

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