AN-Acide salicylique
Salicylic acid
| Type of ingrédient | Exfoliant |
| Available forms | Exfoliating products, toning lotion, serums … |
| Origin | Salicylic acid, an ingredient extracted from willow bark, is a type of chemical exfoliant called beta hydroxy acid (aka BHA). When bacteria, debris, oil and dead skin cells mix, a clog forms inside your pores. Unlike chemical exfoliants called alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are water soluble and ideal for surface exfoliation, salicylic is oil soluble, making it able to cut through the oil and exfoliate deep into your pores to remove blockages. |
| Main benefits | removes dead skin, eliminates excess sebum and reduces white and blackheads. |
| Characteristics | Salicylic acid is used to treat a range of skin conditions besides acne, from warts to dandruff. As an astringent, salicylic acid can tighten the skin, reducing the appearance of pores. Because of salicylic acid’s anti-inflammatory properties, it helps treat the irritation and redness associated with skin rashes |
| Target group | In general, those with oily skin are looking to treat superficial acne, such as whiteheads, blackheads and small red spots. |
| Frequency | Salicylic acid should be used sparingly until you know your skin can tolerate it without irritation. If your skin can tolerate it, you can increase the frequency to twice a day, unless you know that you will be directly exposed to the sun, then it should only be applied at night. |
| Association | It is recommended that the acne ingredient be used with ingredients that soothe the skin and calm any irritation that salicylic acid could potentially cause. |
| Dissociation/ Contraindication | Although salicylic acid can be combined with other exfoliating ingredients, to avoid irritation it is best to stick to one exfoliant at a time. |
| Side effects | Salicylic acid is best suited for people with oily skin and superficial acne. For dry, eczema-prone or sensitive skin, the drying ingredient may be too harsh and cause irritation. |
| Use | It is advisable to use salicylic acid sparingly until you know your skin can tolerate it. Start applying it every other day and note how your skin reacts after each application. If it becomes irritated, you will need to space out the applications and moisturise more. Apply just enough salicylic acid to cover the affected area and gently pat the skin. The use of salicylic acid depends on the skin type, the underlying indication and the severity of the acne. While salicylic acid is a reliable option for treating superficial acne, prescription medications, such as oral treatments, may be needed to target cystic acne, so it is best to have your skin assessed by a dermatologist to decide which treatment would be most effective. |