For those who suffer with acne, the struggle to find the right skin care product can be an ongoing process. Every day, more product makers claim they have the best new thing to finally, help you get rid of your acne problems. Of course, the truth is that some products work for some people while others may not. There is a certain level of trial and error involved when trying to find what works best for you.
Not to mention, your skin can also build up immunity to products, over time. So that wonder pill or peel that once worked miracles may begin to lose its effectiveness. Instead of being frustrated or losing hope, it just means that it may be time to move on to try another product. Knowing what options are available to you is one good approach to take to find an acne combatant that works for you.
How It Works
While other products work to minimize the oil gland production or kill bacteria in the follicles, salicyclic acid promotes the natural removal of dead skin cells. By increasing the rate, or simply ensuring this happens as it naturally should, the skin pores remain clear from blockages that can lead to acne.
The basic idea is that this works to penetrate deep into the follicle and remove anything obstructing the lining or the pore itself. With this product, though, you will need to continue to use it even after your skin has begun to clear up. This is required because it means you need to continue to prevent your follicles from becoming blocked. Patients who discontinued use following clear-ups were often disappointed to find the problem returned. Maintaining usage can help prevent this from happening.
Can Anyone Use Salicyclic Acid?
Salicyclic acid is best suited for those who have non-inflammatory blemishes. Those who have even lesions though, may consider using this product. Keep in mind your own sensitivity to topical products as this often comes in a peel form, which can be intense for many who have very sensitive skin. You can also try other OTC (over the counter) products containing salicyclic acid if your skin is too sensitive for peels.
There are lotions, creams, alcohol-based solutions and medicated pads that contain salicyclic acid as an ingredient. The important thing is to monitor your skin to ensure you are not suffering reactions or side effects from the use of this type of product. As with any product, if you are pregnant, become pregnant or are nursing, you should consult with your doctor before using salicyclic acid.
Are There Side Effects?
As with any product, there is the potential for side effects. The good news, though, is that many of these reported a milder form of the effects as opposed to some other topical acne fighting methods. Skin irritation or dryness may occur in some patients who use salicyclic acid products. You can try reducing the amount or frequency in which you use a product with this ingredient, but if the problems continue or are severe, you should discontinue use.
There are some steps you can take to avoid the likelihood of side effects:
- Avoid using soaps that may be abrasive or other topical acne treatments that contain a peeling agent.
- If you use cosmetics or soaps that have a tendency to dry the skin, you should opt for something else while using salicyclic acid products.
- Another consideration is to avoid using any other topical skin medicine or product at all during this time.
Of course, you will want to get an idea of some of the well-received salicyclic acid products on the market, now, to decide what may work for you.
Salicyclic Acid Peels
Keep in mind, you can obtain products that contain salicyclic acid without using a peel. The ones for those who have skin that isn’t overly sensitive to peels are often considered more effective.
- The first one is the Skin Beauty Solutions Salicyclic Acid 30% Skin Peel. This loosens and pulls away oil and debris from the surface of the skin and dislodges blockages.
- Skin Laboratory’s Salicyclic Acid 20% Gel Peel is also a popular choice. Use weekly and notice your pores becoming unclogged. This can also reduce the appearance of pores.
Remember, start gradually and back off if you have a reaction, but you may find salicyclic acid products are just the thing for you.