Salicylic Acid For Acne: How To Use And Side Effects

You have probably come across salicylic acid products when browsing the skin care department in the drugstore. Salicylic acid is frequently referred to as a “go-to” remedy for acne. However, getting it to work for your skin might be difficult. That’s why, before you apply it to your breakouts, you should check to see if it is suitable for your skin. Learn all about salicylic acid and how it can help treat acne by reading this article.

In This Article

What Is Salicylic Acid?

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Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is often used for topical application. There are two types of hydroxy acids alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). AHAs have exfoliating properties that keep your skin smooth and even out your skin tone. BHAs work in similar ways as AHAs, but they also function as antibacterial agents by penetrating deep into your skin and unclogging the pores. And that is why salicylic acid can easily calm down irritated and stressed skin.

It is often misunderstood as a keratolytic agent or a peeling agent. However, salicylic acid is a desmolytic agent, i.e., it disrupts the cellular junction, breaking the cohesion of skin cells, helping the skin exfoliate itself (1). In the next section, we have explained the process in detail.

How Does Salicylic Acid Work For Acne?

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Salicylic acid penetrates your skin and breaks down the lipids and fats that make the dead skin cells stick together. If these bonds are not broken down, the dead skin cells can block the skin pores and cause acne and pimples. As the acid breaks up the cells, it provides deep cleaning, promotes cell regeneration, and rejuvenates your skin.

Salicylic acid is also beneficial for:

• Reducing hyperpigmentation (1)
• Minimizing fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles (2)

StyleCraze SaysAdditionally, you can combine salicylic acid with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide if you want to unclog your pores and prevent dryness.

But using just any product with a salicylic acid formula will not work. For effective results, it is necessary to use the acid in a certain way.

Related: 6 Home Remedies To Remove Dark Spots On Face | Causes & Types

How To Use Salicylic Acid Properly

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Salicylic acid is available in cleansers, serums, gels, lotions, and moisturizers. Usually, 2% solution is used in OTC products. Follow the tips to use salicylic acid the right way:

• Limit its application to the affected areas. Avoid applying salicylic acid near the eyes and make sure it doesn’t get into your nose and mouth. If it does, rinse with water immediately.
• If you are using an over-the-counter product containing salicylic acid, start with a small amount on a small part of the affected area for three days. If it doesn’t feel uncomfortable, use it as per the instructions provided on the package.
• When using a product with salicylic acid, always apply it generously to the affected area and gently massage.
• For salicylic acid in gel form, apply wet packs on the affected area for 5 minutes a post which you can apply the product.
• If you are using salicylic acid skin pads, simply wipe them over the skin without rinsing the acid off.
• If you are using a skin cleanser containing salicylic acid, wet your skin and gently massage the product for a few seconds. Avoid scrubbing. Wash thoroughly and pat dry.
• The dosage or frequency of application depends on your skin condition. Never use it in quantities more than suggested and avoid using it too often. Use it as per the directions of the doctor.

StyleCraze SaysSalicylic acid is also found in spot treatments and chemical peels for acne.

Doctors often recommend salicylic acid for corns, calluses, and warts. Hence, the frequency of application may differ. Always consult a doctor before using salicylic acid. You may follow the below tips.

Related: 12 Effective Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Warts

The Frequency Of Using Salicylic Acid

The frequency may also differ as per the formulation. You may use an OTC product as directed by the manufacturer or a doctor. Here’s what you can do:

• SA creams for corns and calluses: Use once every 3-5 days.
• SA gels for acne: Use once a day.
• SA gel for warts: Apply once a day.
• SA lotions for acne: Use 1-2 times a day.
• SA soaps for acne: Use as needed.

Salicylic acid is extremely potent and if used excessively, it may cause side effects. Let’s take a look.

Related: 19 Best Home Remedies For Corns And Calluses, FAQs, & Caution

Does Salicylic Acid Have Any Side Effects?

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Salicylic acid does not cause side effects when used properly and in the recommended dosage. However, you may experience:

• Dryness
• Irritation
• Redness
• Burning and tingling sensations

While there are many benefits of salicylic acid for the skin, a lack of caution may cause adverse effects. Here are the precautions to take when using salicylic acid.

Precautions To Take Before Using Salicylic Acid

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Avoid using salicylic acid in the following cases:

• Allergic Reactions: Always inform your doctor if you have any allergies. Inform them if you are allergic to specific drugs, including ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, or any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Skin And Health Issues: Avoid using salicylic acid (or consult the doctor) if you have atopic dermatitis, skin infections, uremia, wounds, or any other health issue (like diabetes or blood circulation issues).
• Pregnancy: Using salicylic acid is not recommended if you are pregnant (or are planning to get pregnant). If you are using salicylic acid or undergoing such treatment, plan your pregnancy after the treatment is over. Also, avoid salicylic acid if you are lactating.
• Drug Interactions: Salicylic acid can interfere with certain medications (for instance, blood thinners). So, if you are under medication, talk to your doctor before using it.

Salicylic acid should be used only as directed by the dermatologist or as per the instructions printed on the package (if it is a cream or gel). As salicylic acid gets easily absorbed by the skin, abusing it may cause poisoning. Here are a few things to keep in mind while using it:

• Avoid excessive use of salicylic acid. Otherwise, it may cause over-exfoliation and irritate the skin.
• Start slow to observe how your skin responds. Let it get accustomed to the routine. Start with a lower concentration (0.5%) and increase the dosage gradually once your skin gets used to it.
• Follow up with hydrating moisturizers to minimize dryness.
• Avoid combining salicylic acid with retinol, vitamin C, and other AHAs like glycolic, lactic, malic, and mandelic acids to prevent skin irritation.
• Do not forget to apply sunscreen when stepping outside.

In case of redness and severe irritation, stop using the acid and consult a doctor.

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Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid often used in exfoliating dead skin and improving your skin texture. When it comes to acne, salicylic acid breaks down the fat layers in your skin and deeply cleanses your pores. Further, it reduces hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and wrinkles. To make sure you use salicylic acid safely, apply it on the affected areas and avoid using it too much to avoid dry skin, redness, and irritation. Follow the instructions given on the package or consult your doctor for the appropriate dosage.