Salicylic Acid, SOS care for skin spots
To reduce, or even eradicate acne in teens and adults, formulations and creams are often as complex as mysterious. However, sometimes a single active ingredient in the right dosage can make a real difference! Salicylic acid is a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid), mostly used now for its exfoliating and oil-loving properties. It eliminates the cells of the skin’s outer layer to stimulate cell renewal while also cleaning deep into the pores leaving them tightened and an impeccable skin texture.
Acid citric origin
Salicylic acid is an organic component from the BHA family, the beta-hydroxy acids. Predominantly present in the bark of willow trees, it is also found in many other plants, such as fruits and meadowsweet. However, it was from willow trees that it was first extracted in 1853 by C.F. Gerhard, chemist, and later in 1897, by Felix Hoffmann, it in its pure extract form.
Its medicinal properties have been known for a long time, particularly for treating fever and pain. Now superseded by aspirin (derived from salicylic acid) or paracetamol, it remains an effective ingredient in cosmetic formulations.
Nowadays, its antiseptic and exfoliating properties are really what the skin specialists are interested in. In short, it offers an excellent natural exfoliation, particularly for oily and mixed complexions, which explains why it is present in numerous anti-acne and anti-blackhead creams and formulas.
How does salicylic acid help to restore a clean complexion?
Salicylic acid a common treatment for acne or hyperhidrosis, a condition that generates excessive sweating. In addition, this active ingredient is just as efficient on blackheads and skin spots caused by inflammation.
How does it work?
- It eliminates dead skin cells that build up at the surface of the skin and stimulates cell renewal
- Its exfoliating action reduces spots and refines skin texture
- It unclogs dirt and oil from the pores, which prevents the formation of new blackheads and blemishes
Salicylic acid is recommended for anyone experiencing acne, starting from teenagers right up to adults.
How to use salicylic acid as an SOS treatment?
When formulated at its optimal active concentration (2%, which represents the maximum authorised dose in cosmetics), salicylic acid is an excellent SOS treatment for pimples and blackheads.
Carefully avoiding the eye contour, skin care containing salicylic acid can be applied directly on the affected areas. Wait until fully absorbed by the skin for effective results and avoid combining with other acids such as citric and glycolic.
Treatment duration varies; a salicylic acid treatment should be used until skin has visibly improved and at the first signs of blackheads or pimples.