One type of beta hydroxy acid is salicylic acid. It is well known for keeping pores clear and exfoliating the skin to reduce acne.
Salicylic acid is present in a number of over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Additionally, prescription-strength formulations are available.
Blackheads and whiteheads from moderate acne respond well to salicylic acid. Additionally, it may help stop outbreaks in the future.
Learn how salicylic acid helps to clean up acne, how much to take, and any possible side effects by reading on.
How does acne respond to salicylic acid?
Blackheads (open plugged pores), whiteheads (closed plugged pores), or pimples (pustules) frequently occur when your hair follicles (pores) become clogged with dead skin cells and oil.
Salicylic acid acts to remove the dead skin cells that are obstructing your pores by penetrating your skin. You may need to use it for a few weeks before you notice the full impact. If, after six weeks, you are still not experiencing results, consult your dermatologist Trusted Source.
What form and dosage of salicylic acid is recommended for acne?
A form and dosage tailored to your skin type and current condition will be suggested by your physician or dermatologist. To assess your reaction, they may also advise applying a little amount to a small area of the affected skin for two or three days before administering the whole dose to the entire area.
The National Library of Medicine states that adults with acne should apply a topical medication, like:
| Percent of salicylic acid | How often to use | Form |
| 2–7% | once per day | gel |
| 0.5–2% | 1–3 times per day | solution |
| 0.5–3% | as needed | soap |
| 3% | as needed | ointment |
| 0.5–2% | 1–3 times per day | pads |
| 2% | 1–3 times per day | lotion |
Higher quantities of salicylic acid are also applied as a peeling agent to treat:
acne, age spots, acne scars, and melasma
Does salicylic acid have any side effects?
Salicylic acid is generally thought to be safe, but when it first starts, it may irritate the skin and remove too much oil, which could cause dryness and irritation. Other possible side effects include skin tingling or stinging, itching, peeling, and hives.
Things to consider before taking salicylic acid
You should consult your doctor before using salicylic acid, even though it is present in over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that you can buy at your neighborhood grocery store. Some things to think about are:
Allergies: Inform your physician of any prior adverse reactions you may have had to salicylic acid or other topical drugs.
Use in children: Skin irritation may be more common in youngsters. Consult a physician prior to your child beginning to use items containing salicylic acid.
Drug interactions: Salicylic acid and some drugs don’t get along well. Inform your doctor about the medications you are taking at the moment.
A doctor may decide not to prescribe salicylic acid if you have any of the following medical conditions, so you should let them know:
- liver illness
- renal illness
- illness of the blood vessels
- diabetes
- Varicella, or chickenpox
- influenza
Salicylic acid toxicity
Although it is uncommon, topical salicylic acid treatment might result in salicylic acid poisoning. Use these suggestions to lower your risk:
Avoid applying salicylic acid treatments to large regions of your body for extended periods of time, and avoid using them beneath plastic wrap or other airtight dressings.
If you encounter any of the following symptoms or indicators, stop taking salicylic acid right away and consult your physician:
- Sluggishness
- headache
- misunderstanding
- Tinnitus, or ringing or buzzing in the ears
- loss of hearing
- nausea
- throwing up
- diarrhea and deepening of breathing (hyperpnea)
Using salicylic acid while pregnant or nursing
Using topical salicylic acid during pregnancy is generally safe, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
To get advice tailored to your circumstances, particularly with regard to other medications you are taking or any medical concerns you may have, you should speak with your doctor if you are thinking about using salicylic acid while pregnant or nursing.
A report from 2018 Salicylic acid is unlikely to be absorbed into breast milk, but it should not be applied to any parts of the body that could come into touch with an infant’s skin or mouth, according to a reliable source on the topic.
How to pick the best one for you
The item you select will be determined by:
What kind of acne do you have? Salicylic acid works better for whiteheads and blackheads. Mild pustules respond favorably to benzoyl peroxide.
how bad your breakouts are. It may take a few weeks for both substances to fully take effect, and they are meant for minor outbreaks. However, benzoyl peroxide may be useful as a spot therapy in an emergency.
Your degree of activity. Sweat can carry benzoyl peroxide to your clothes and leave stains if you’re active during the day. You can think about taking salicylic acid or similar treatments solely at night.
general wellness of your skin. Compared to benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid is gentler and might not irritate delicate skin as much.Any underlying health issues. Even while both ingredients are sold over-the-counter, not everyone can safely use them. If you have an underlying skin condition, make sure to consult with your doctor again. Additionally, if you have diabetes, liver illness, or kidney disease, you should consult your physician.
1. Is it OK to use salicylic acid on the face every day?
Yes, however your skin type will determine this. Using a modest salicylic acid product on a daily basis will help prevent breakouts if you have oily or acne-prone skin. It’s advisable to start using it every other day and observe how your skin responds, as everyday use may irritate dry or sensitive skin.
2. Can dark spots be removed with salicylic acid?
Over time, salicylic acid can help lighten dark spots by encouraging cell turnover and mildly exfoliating the skin. Although it may take a few weeks to see obvious changes, it is most effective for superficial pigmentation and post-acne blemishes.
3. What effects does salicylic acid have on the face?
Salicylic acid makes your skin smoother and clearer by reducing acne, unclogging pores, and exfoliating dead skin cells. Additionally, it regulates excess oil production, which may stop breakouts in the future.
4. Are there any adverse effects of salicylic acid?
Indeed, if used excessively or in high doses, it may result with dryness, redness, peeling, or irritation. Start with a lower-strength product if you have sensitive skin, and always use a good moisturizer afterward.