If you’ve been following the latest skincare trends, you’ll no doubt have heard all about salicylic acid, but what is this new raved-about ingredient and what are the benefits of salicylic acid?
If you have an oily, blemish or acne-prone complexion, then you’ll want to know about salicylic acid. A gentle yet effective acid, it unclogs your pores and banishes excess oil and sebum. Here’s how…
What Is Salicylic Acid?
Okay, bear with me here because things are about to get a little technical. Salicylic acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (or BHA for short) which means that the hydroxy part of the molecule is separated from the acid part by two carbon atoms.
Now I know what you’re thinking: why should I care about its structure? Well, it is this very structure that gives it its unique properties. You see, salicylic acid is oil-soluble (unlike AHAs which only have one carbon atom and are water-soluble) which means that it is able to treat oily and blemished skin by removing excess oil and dirt from deep within your pores.
What Are The Benefits Of Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic acid has so many benefits because it works on many different layers of your skin.
- It helps to clear up acne by penetrating into the deeper layers of your skin. This allows it to effectively remove the dirt and oil that are clogging up your pores and causing breakouts.
- It works as an exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and bacteria from the surface of your skin. This then helps your skin to renew itself faster, leaving you with a firmer and more toned complexion.
- It is highly anti-inflammatory and helps to soothe red and inflamed skin.
Essentially, if you have blemish-prone skin (including blackheads, whiteheads and pimples), then you need to incorporate salicylic acid into your skincare routine. It will prevent breakouts and give you a more even-looking skin tone.
What Salicylic Acid Products Should I Use?
Now that you know all of the benefits of salicylic acid, you’re no doubt on the hunt for the best products that are infused with this ingredient. I’ve got you covered there too. Here are some of the top choices available from lookfantastic.
Insider Tip: When using acid-based beauty products, make sure that you use an SPF or an SPF moisturiser to protect your skin. You should also only use one salicylic acid-based product as part of your daily routine at one time.
