Acne and Salicylic Acid
Posted on 04. Jan, 2009 by admin in Acne Treatments
Acne and Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a mild treatment and is a keratolytic agent. It helps the process of dead skin cells to be sloughed away. It is an effective and safe treatment of mild cases of acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, oily skin and textural changes in individuals of most all skin types.
How It Works
Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are mild solutions that can effectively treat acne. They help to encourage the top layer of the skin to peel, along with the opening of clogged follicles. This process will help the replacement of normal skin cells to reestablish. In milder cases of acne, it helps to unplug the pores, which helps to prevent and resolve lesions. Just like with a variety of topical treatments, it must continuously be used, even when lesions of acne have already healed. Once its use has been discontinued, problems with clogged pores, uneven shedding and acne will return.
Where To Find It
Many products can be found without a prescription contain salicylic acid, and this would include creams, medicated pads, lotions and solutions that are alcohol based.
Side Effects That Are Most Common
Dryness is the side effect that is the most common in occurring. Try applying a moisturizer that is oil-free and light when the skin appears to be scaly.
Irritation - Salicylic acid causes most irritation problems in children. When irritation that is mild is experienced, you should try to decrease the frequency that you are using the product. Discontinue use entirely if the irritation persists or is severe even with applications that are infrequent.
Precautions - Salicylic acid can cause the skin to become excessively dry, even when you use concentrations that are low. When this problem arises, consider any other skin products you may be using. There are products that will enhance salicylic acid and its keratolytic properties, which can cause the skin to become dry. There are some things that you will want to avoid when using products that contain salicylic acid, such as:
* Cleansers and soaps that are abrasive
* Cosmetics that are medicated
* Preparations that contain alcohol
* Topical acne treatments that contain agents that enhance peeling
* Soaps or cosmetics that cause the skin to become dry
* Other types of skin medications that are topical
NOTE: This product can be absorbed in the skin. If you plan to use salicylic acid over large areas and you plan on becoming pregnant, you should contact your physician.
