Which Skincare ingredient is best for acne?
Salicylic acid is the most widely used solution to visibly reduce the signs of acne. Therefore, try to use products that contain this substance.
However, there are several alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide, that can also be effective.
Which is better salicylic acid or glycolic acid?
Salicylic acid and Glycolic acid can be complementary and their use is sometimes confused. Therefore, we see it convenient to explain which is better in each case.
Glycolic acid is more effective when you have dry, dull skin, signs of acne or age spots, due to its ability to exfoliate the epidermis.
However, salicylic acid is best if you have oily or combination skin that is prone to blackheads, pimples, or pimples, as it works by penetrating deep into the pores.
In any case, it is not indicated to use glycolic acid daily and leave it overnight, as it makes the skin more prone to hyperpigmentation.
What are the properties and benefits of salicylic acid?
- Renews and softens the skin: thanks to its exfoliating action that regulates sebum and helps to obtain a softer touch of the epidermis and to improve imperfections such as pimples, warts or scars.
- Deeply cleanses the skin: Unlike alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), salicylic acid penetrates to remove the dirt accumulated below the surface of the skin thanks to its antibacterial properties.
- Eliminates blackheads and pimples: due to its comedolytic properties.
- Prevents the clogging of pores: by removing dead cells from the face due to its keratolytic effect.
- Helps to deflate pimples so that they heal sooner since it has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fights stains unify the tone, provide luminosity and whiten the skin thanks to its depigmenting action.
- Visibly reducing wrinkles stimulates the production of collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, helping to fill in wrinkles.
Limit the use of salicylic acid
As it is an acid, it is important to exercise extreme caution and avoid it, except by medical approval, in children, pregnant women or lactating women.
On the other hand, moderate, gradual use is recommended and, preferably, supervised by a dermatologist to avoid possible side effects.
Keep in mind that it can cause irritation, dehydration, and even skin peeling. It is essential to apply sun protection after use if your skin will be exposed to the sun’s rays.
Is salicylic acid used day or night?
A favourable aspect is that salicylic acid can be used both day and night, as it is less irritating than other acids.
However, if you want to combine it with other more powerful substances, such as retinol, in this case, we recommend using salicylic acid in the morning and retinol at night.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how this substance can help you get rid of all those blemishes that keep you up at night once and for all, you should know how to exfoliate your skin and the importance of cleansing your face to prevent pores from becoming clogged.