What is salicylic acid and what impact does it have on improving acne and skin health?

Various compounds and substances have been recommended by dermatologists for facial pimples and acne. Some of these substances must be prescribed by a doctor, while others can be obtained without a prescription. Salicylic acid is one of the substances that products containing a specific dosage of it can be obtained without a prescription. This substance is present in many products that prevent and treat acne and facial pimples, from facial wash gels to various toners and serums.

In this article, we first introduce salicylic acid, and then provide you with information on its side effects, allowable dosages, and products containing this substance. Stay with us.

What is salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid that reduces acne by exfoliating the skin and cleansing open pores. This substance is present in many over-the-counter products that are marketed to fight acne, and is also formulated in many prescription medications that are prescribed by doctors to prevent and treat acne.

This substance has an effective performance in treating blackheads and whiteheads, and can also be effective in preventing their occurrence.

What is salicylic acid and what does it do for acne?

When pores on the skin become blocked with dead skin cells, oil, or leftover makeup, whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples can appear on the skin. Salicylic acid penetrates the skin and dissolves the dead skin cells that cause pimples and acne. By clearing the pores of pimples, they heal faster and prevent new pimples from forming.

To see the effects of using this substance on your skin, you should give it about 6 weeks. If you do not see any changes in your skin after six weeks, see a dermatologist.

What is the recommended type and dosage of salicylic acid for treating acne?

Depending on the skin type and current condition, dermatologists recommend different doses and forms of salicylic acid. They also recommend applying a small amount of the product to a small area of ​​your skin for two to three days before starting to use products containing this ingredient to make sure you are not sensitive to the product.

According to the National Library of Medicine's recommendation, the use of different forms and doses of salicylic acid is as follows:

• Gels containing 2 to 7% should be used once a day.
• Lotions containing 2% can be used one to three times a day.
• Ointments containing 3% can be used as needed.
• Pads containing 0.5 to 2% can be used one to three times a day.
• Soaps containing 0.5 to 3% can be used as needed.
• Solution containing 0.5 to 2% can be used one to three times a day.

Higher doses of this ingredient are prescribed for the treatment of acne, acne scars, age spots, and melasma as peeling and exfoliating products.

Side Effects

While this type of substance is generally considered harmless, it may cause skin irritation in the early stages of use. It may also excessively remove skin oil, resulting in dryness and potential skin irritation.

Other side effects of using this substance are listed below:

Needle-like pricking or burning sensation on the skin Itching Peeling skin Red and inflamed spots.

Things to Consider Before Starting Salicylic Acid Use

Although salicylic acid is an over-the-counter drug that can be purchased from pharmacies and cosmetic stores without a doctor's prescription, in some cases, it is recommended to consult with a dermatologist before starting to use this substance. In the following cases, it is advised to consult with your doctor before starting to use this substance:

Allergies: If you have previously experienced allergic reactions to salicylic acid or other topical medications, inform your doctor. Use in children: Children may be more susceptible to skin irritation. Before using products containing this substance, talk to a doctor. Drug interactions: Interactions between certain medications and salicylic acid may be harmful. If you are taking any specific medications, consult with your doctor before starting to use products containing this substance.

If you have the following conditions, consult with your doctor before starting to use this medication:

• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Blood vessel disease
• Diabetes
• Chickenpox
• Influenza

According to research, using this medication does not pose a risk for breastfeeding or pregnant women. However, you should still talk to your doctor in these conditions to receive consultation regarding your situation, especially regarding other medications you are taking or medical conditions you may have.

And finally, if you suffer from facial acne or pimples, products containing salicylic acid can be useful for you. You can incorporate this substance into your skincare routine in the form of cleansing gel, serum, toner, cream, etc. If you have severe acne, you can visit a doctor to prescribe higher doses of this substance. If you want to use this substance without a doctor's prescription, consider the precautions for use mentioned in the article.