From user testimonials to expert advice, salicylic acid has proved to be a fool-proof remedy for acne-prone skin. This ingredient has been found on numerous skincare shelves in the form of serums, cleansers, moisturisers, and more. Salicylic acid has become a popular ingredient in skincare, but do we know how it works for acne-prone skin? Which stages of acne can benefit from it the most? We had these questions too. So we reached out to dermatologist, Dr Apratim Goel to have our questions answered. Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of salicylic acid for acne-prone skin.
Q1. Why is salicylic acid considered a good ingredient for acne-prone skin?
Dr Apratim: Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent, meaning that it breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells so that blocked pores can be unclogged. It also decreases the skin's sebum production leading to fewer acne breakouts.
Q2. What are the different stages of acne and how does salicylic acid benefit in each?
Dr Apratim: There are 4 stages of acne namely -
- Comedonal
- Papular
- Pustular
- Cystic
In the first stage, there are multiple blackheads and whiteheads, they are called comedones. Salicylic acid works as an exfoliant to clear your skin off these comedones.
In the second and third stages, namely the papular and pustular phases, salicylic acid works as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce redness and irritation in these inflamed, tender pimples.
In the last stage, that is the cystic stage, salicylic acid can be used as a part of a combination regime along with oral medicines.
Q3. Which ingredients can be used in combination with salicylic acid to treat acne?
Dr Apratim: Salicylic acid can be used with niacinamide for dual action of exfoliation and anti-inflammation. This combination works well on minimising the appearance of pores, and helps eliminate blackheads and whiteheads.
In a skincare routine containing other active ingredients like retinoids or azelaic acid, salicylic acid can be used as a cleanser.
Q4. What are the drawbacks of using salicylic acid?
Dr Apratim: If used too often or in a higher concentration on sensitive skin types, it can cause dryness, flaking, itching and a stinging sensation.
Q5. What other skin types and concerns can benefit from using salicylic acid?
Dr Apratim: Oily skin benefits the most from using salicylic acid. This ingredient aids in decreasing sebum production, in turn reducing oiliness.
Normal skin types may use it twice or thrice weekly as an exfoliating agent to achieve clear skin with unclogged pores.
Nykaa recommends these salicylic acid products to include in your regime
Best of Luxe: The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Bid goodbye to uneven skin and clogged pores an extraordinary formula from The Ordinary — this water-based serum targets textural irregularities and aids in removing dead skin cells. Ideal for blemish-prone, combination, and oily skin, this serum helps to clear up congested skin revealing a clearer complexion. The thin consistency feels light on the skin making it perfect to use in your everyday routine.
If the term ‘nip it in the bud’ was a product, it would be this! Infused with the dual healing benefits of tea tree and salicylic acid, these pimple patches are a quick and effective way to get rid of pesky pimples in a jiffy. Just stick it on the pimple and watch it work its magic, minus all the mess. Got a pimple while you’re travelling? Fret not. These spot patches are travel-friendly and water resistant too!
Not your regular exfoliator — this powder exfoliator enriched with salicylic acid and rice bran extracts that combat acne and brighten skin in one step. Whether you have oily or sensitive skin, either way this exfoliant will work wonders on your skin. Create a creamy paste with this powder exfoliant, massage it on your skin in a circular motion to get the job done! It is gentle enough for daily use, so add it to your everyday regime without a second thought.
Best Acne-Healing Duo: Acne Squad 2% Salicylic Acid Serum & Peeling Tonic Solution
This action-packed duo will prevent future breakouts with this breakout blocking serum and peeling solution. Ideal to combat stage 2 acne, unclog your pores off the blackheads and whiteheads and get clearer skin in a few weeks only! Start off with a thin layer of the peeling solution and follow it up with a few drops of the serum and gently pat it into your skin. Don’t forget to moisturise and protect after for the best results.
Editor’s Pick: Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid + LHA Face Cleanser
90% of users agreed their skin felt smoother and brighter, and saw significant reduction in skin oiliness in just 6 washes - this cleanser is already a winner in our books! Apart from helping your skin get rid of dirt, grime, and excess sebum, the multi-level cleansing allows the formula to penetrate deeper into the skin reducing acne occurrences in 6 weeks. Also, this formulation is free of all nasties and consists of all the good stuff that makes way for clearer looking skin.
If you have oily, acne-prone skin, or grapple with open pores, then this face wash is a great pick to add to your skincare routine. Created with a blend of salicylic acid, witch hazel, and willow bark, all of which penetrate into the skin to eliminate acne causing bacteria and impurities. What’s more? This is a gel face wash that feels lightweight and absorbs well into the skin to give you the desired results.
