Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Benefits of Salicylic Acid for Acne?

Felicia Dye
Felicia Dye

Using salicylic acid for acne treatment is believed to be effective for several reasons. To begin with, this topical agent is believed to act as a chemical exfoliator. It is also believed to have the ability to help eliminate blackheads and whiteheads. This chemical skincare ingredient is commonly suggested as a better option for sensitive skin infected by acne than other treatments, such as hydroxy acid, which often cause other problems.

The hairs that cover the human body are held in small tunnel-like structures in the skin known as follicles. Where these follicles reach the surface, holes are created known as pores. If oil builds up, infection sets in, or dead skin blocks the follicles and pores, a person can begin to experience breakouts. Salicylic acid for acne treatment has been found to prevent these scenarios from arising and to correct them once they have.

Salicylic acid promotes quicker and more effective shedding of the epidermis.
Salicylic acid promotes quicker and more effective shedding of the epidermis.

Salicylic acid for acne is derived from a natural source, willow bark. It is then included in a variety of skincare products, such as facial washes and toners. This is done because it is believed to have the ability to help control oil buildup and infection, which are primary causes of acne.

The first way that salicylic acid works is by acting as a chemical exfoliator. The skin is a naturally shedding organ. After cells die, they detach and are eliminated from the body, allowing new layers of cells to come to the surface. The outer layer of cells is referred to as the epidermis. Salicylic acid tends to promote quicker and more effective shedding of the epidermis than would occur if the chemical were not applied.

Salicylic acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads.
Salicylic acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads.

Exposing fresh layers of skin helps to prevent clogging, which allows a person to experience other benefits of salicylic acid for acne. Salicylic acid tends to continue playing a prominent role in treating acne once it has penetrated the skin. The skin has a tendency to produce oil. This ingredient is believed to have the ability to dissolve some of the skin's natural oils. Salicylic acid for acne treatment is also promoted because after it penetrates the skin, it has been found to help break down blackheads and whiteheads and promote the skin in expelling waste matter that was previously held inside the follicles.

Discussion Comments

ysmina

I think that salicylic acid is the best acne treatment ever. My pimples are gone, my skin looks supple and my pores are smaller since I started using salicylic acid. Those with acne prone skin need to have this in their cabinet.

SteamLouis

@SarahGen-- Salicylic acne products will not dry out your skin unless they contain other ingredients that are drying like alcohol. It's a good idea to thoroughly read the ingredients list of a product before buying it. I've been using a salicylic acid toner for several years now and have not had any problems like dryness.

I should warn you however that if you use multiple salicyclic acid products at the same time, you might experience some dryness and irritation. You need to see how your skin is reacting and use these products accordingly.

For example, for a while, I was using both a salicylic acid toner and a salicylic acid cream. Although salicylic acid is generally mild, it is an exfoliator as the article said. The more salicylic acid products you use, the more dead skin you will shed. This might be good for some people with severe acne. Different people have different types of skin. Some people have thicker skin and need more exfoliation. Other skin types are thinner and requires less exfoliation. So watch how your skin reacts and then determine how frequently you ought to use salicylic acid products.

I just use a salicylic acid toner as I said. My face wash and face moisturizer do not have this ingredient. Overall, salicylic acid is an acne treatment that works very well.

SarahGen

Will products with salicylic acid dry out my skin while fighting acne? Most acne skin treatments seem to be very drying.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Salicylic acid promotes quicker and more effective shedding of the epidermis.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      Salicylic acid promotes quicker and more effective shedding of the epidermis.
    • Salicylic acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Salicylic acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads.
    • Salicylic acid is derived from willow bark.
      By: marilyn barbone
      Salicylic acid is derived from willow bark.
    • Specially formulated facial wash containing salicylic acid is used to reduce acne breakouts.
      By: ipag
      Specially formulated facial wash containing salicylic acid is used to reduce acne breakouts.
    • Salicylic acid is often recommended for skin that's infected by acne.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      Salicylic acid is often recommended for skin that's infected by acne.
    • Drinking plenty of water can help keep the skin hydrated and reduce the occurrence of acne.
      By: vgstudio
      Drinking plenty of water can help keep the skin hydrated and reduce the occurrence of acne.