Salicylic acid is a key ingredient in various cosmetics and medicines that fight skin conditions. It has a positive effect on the appearance of the skin of people with acne. Eliminates inflammation, reduces the number of acne or subcutaneous papules, so it is included in most acne remedies. It also helps treat other skin conditions such as psoriasis and dandruff.
properties of salicylic acid
Salicylic acid has been known in medicine for many years. Currently, it is gaining more and more popularity in cosmetology and as an additive to cosmetics. It is used in the production of cosmetics for the face, body and hair.
Substances found naturally in plants have been valued in the cosmetics industry for centuries, but in recent times they have received particularly positive feedback from natural care enthusiasts. One such ingredient is salicylic acid. It is naturally found in plants. Thanks to this compound, they stay healthy and are protected from pathogens and pests.
In nature, it is found in herbs, are part of the willow bark and chamomile flowers. It is derived from willow bark and belongs to a class of ingredients called salicylates. Aspirin – salicylic acid, one of the cheapest pharmaceutical drugs for colds.
Salicylic acid is widely used in cosmetology, especially for acne-prone skin. It has an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect, clears blackheads, reduces seborrhea. A higher concentration is used in professional peels that exfoliate the epidermis.
There are two categories of acids found in skin care products: beta-hydroxy acids (BHA) and α-hydroxy acids (AHA). Salicylic acid belongs to the group of beta-hydroxy acids with antibacterial, disinfectant, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It penetrates into the stratum corneum, causing its exfoliation. Its structure is fat soluble, which makes it such a powerful acne treatment, especially for blackheads and whiteheads.
Note! When it comes to cystic acne, which is usually caused by genetic and hormonal factors, salicylic acid may not be enough to treat the condition.
Penetrating into the hair follicles, next to which the sebaceous glands are located, reduces the production of sebum in case of oily and combination skin. Helps cleanse skin pores. In addition, it supports the penetration of other active ingredients. Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping inflamed pimples to disappear faster.
Additional Information! Unlike other acids used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, salicylic acid is fat-soluble and insoluble in water. It reduces oiliness and excessive sebum production, which leads to acne. Ideal for oily and acne prone skin, it neutralizes pimples caused by clogged pores.
Salicylic acid in skin care
It has the ability to reduce redness and remove dead cells and bacteria that clog skin pores. It works very well on irritated skin, as it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It also helps smooth out stretch marks, scars, and aging skin.
How does salicylic acid work on the skin? Application of salicylic acid:
- supports the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases;
- exfoliates;
- enhances the effect of cosmetic preparations and absorbs their active ingredients;
- keratolytic effect;
- reduces dandruff;
- deeply cleanses pores, reduces black spots;
- brightens sun and post-inflammatory discolorations;
- evens out skin tone;
- stimulates skin renewal;
- reduces fine wrinkles;
- reduces small acne scars.
Salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin cells, effectively reduces keratinization, improves the process of their removal and cleanses pores. Regular use reduces excess sebum secretion,
You can also use salicylic acid to lighten stains. The solution, applied in the right amount, evens out skin tone and gradually removes age spots. In addition, salicylic acid acts on the skin of the feet, helping to remove annoying calluses.
Salicylic acid in cosmetics
This ingredient is mostly associated with acne and problematic skin care, but in fact it has a versatile effect, so it can be used for both oily and dry skin, with virtually no age restrictions.
Importantly, salicylic acid is gentle on the skin, does not irritate it, does not dry, does not cause burning – provided that it was used in the correct concentration and formula. An allergic reaction can occur, as with any other component of cosmetics – this applies to people who are allergic to salicylates (and therefore to aspirin). Products with its addition are also not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.
Salicylic acid is used, in particular, in cosmetics intended for acne prone skin. It is used in preparations designed to combat dandruff, seborrhea, hair loss, psoriasis, and discoloration. It is also found in foot care products. Included in creams, gels, tonics, scrubs and masks.
Indications for the use of salicylic acid
The healing properties of salicylic acid, in addition to acne, are also used in the treatment of dandruff, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis on the face and scalp, promotes exfoliation and dissolution of excessively keratinized epidermis.
Also used in the treatment of rosacea, discoloration and pigmentation changes, Salicylic Acid regulates skin cell turnover, which improves skin color and texture. At the same time, it facilitates the penetration of other active substances into the skin, so it can be used as a preparatory step in complex skin care – not only for oily or combination skin, but also for thin and dry skin (in the right concentration).
Worth remembering! The best results can be obtained in the case of regular use of cosmetic products with salicylic acid.
Products with salicylic acid
In pharmacies, there are many drugs that fight problems of the face and scalp, such as: psoriasis, dandruff, seborrheic inflammation.
Salicylic acid is present in many cosmetic products. pharmacy products for use on the skin, such as creams, facial cleansers, lotions, shower gels, shampoos, and topical liquid solutions.
It is perfectly soluble in fats and alcohol, effective against bacteria and fungi. acts as a preservative in skin care products.
In addition, antifungal or callus creams with salicylic acid are also available. Recommended products include zinc paste with salicylic acid and scalp liquid. Both drugs are intended for application to local skin lesions. You can buy them at any pharmacy. Creams and serums for daily care are also available in pharmacies.
Salicylic acid, found in skin care products, works best at a concentration of 1-2%. In cosmetics, it is found in ointments, creams, tonics, lotions. It can be used on the skin of the whole body. What ingredients can not be combined with salicylic acid?
When using salicylic acid on the skin, avoid the simultaneous use of cosmetics containing:
- AHA acids;
- vitamin C;
- retinol;
- niacinamide.
Salicylic acid added to the shampoo prevents oily hair and has anti-dandruff properties. In addition, it exfoliates dead skin cells, improving blood circulation and stimulating hair growth. Shampoo should be applied to the entire length of the hair and scalp, leaving for a few minutes, then rinse.
Tonic containing salicylic acid is used 1-2 times a week. It will help to clear pores, reduce the number of blackheads and blackheads. Excessive use of tonic can lead to dry skin.
Salicylic acid can also be found in preparations for use on the skin of the feet and heels. Due to the exfoliating effect, they help in the fight against skin corns. You can buy them at any pharmacy. Creams and serums for daily care are also available in pharmacies.
What ingredients can be combined with salicylic acid? It can be safely used with ingredients such as:
- ceramides;
- glycerol;
- panthenol;
- hyaluronic acid.
Cosmetics with salicylic acid should be combined with products rich in moisturizers, which will relieve the feeling of dryness and tightness of the skin. If you have very sensitive skin, it is worth, especially at the initial stage of using salicylic acid, to apply the drug after applying a moisturizer.
What else should be kept in mind when using cosmetics with salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid, like most acids, increases skin sensitivity to UV rays, which can lead to burns and skin discoloration. Therefore, at this time, you should apply an additional layer of protective cream with a filter with a high SPF every day. Creams with salicylic acid are best used at night – they are usually designed for such care.
Facial toner with salicylic acid not only restores the correct pH of the skin, but also tightens enlarged pores, gently mattifies and prepares the skin to absorb the active ingredients contained in the cream or serum.
Salicylic acid products are safe for daily use if used as directed and tolerated by the skin. As with any active ingredient, it is important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions – tailoring the product and frequency of use to individual skin needs. Thanks to this, avoid skin irritation and side effects.