If your complexion ranges from slightly oily to very oily with occasional or frequent blemishes, you’ve probably heard of one of our favorite ingredients- Salicylic Acid. Known for its ability to cut through oil and clear pores of any unwanted, acne-causing gunk, this stand out Beta-Hydroxy Acid is a must for anyone tackling blemishes. At its core, Salicylic Acid helps clear pores and promote new cell growth. By doing so, you're able to treat current blemishes and prevent new ones.
If your skin is oily, congested or acneic, absolutely. Salicylic Acid is incredibly helpful at clearing up your complexion and making way for healthy, smooth skin. If your skin type is dry or you’re focused on tackling other skin concerns like aging or hyperpigmentation, try Glycolic Acid as a replacement.
How you use any active ingredient largely depends on your skin’s needs. If you’re extra sensitive, you’ll want to limit your usage to wash off products (like cleansers) or spot treatments to reduce excess dryness and irritation. If you’ve built up more of a tolerance, try incorporating a targeted serum or leave on toner to allow the ingredient to really work its magic.
We love serums for the powerful punch that they add to skincare routines. These little guys will be your best course of action if you’re wanting to see transformative results.
The easiest and quickest way to get rid of acne-causing bacteria is with a toner. These products are perfect to toss in your bag when you need a fast way to get rid of dirt, oil and debris.
Yup, but nothing out of the ordinary. The main side effects are dryness and sun sensitivity. When starting a Salicylic Acid product, proceed slowly and gradually work your way up to full time usage. If you’re still experiencing dryness, use a moisturizer (wait 20 minutes after applying the acid to ensure it penetrates the skin). And as always, use an SPF daily. But, to be extra safe, save Salicylic Acid products for nighttime use only.
Want to learn more about other acne-fighting ingredients? Click here for our complete overview of acne.