- What is Acne? There are many factors contributing to the appearance of acne. For instance, it may be due to unhealthy diet, poor hygiene or (in most cases) heredity. This means that if you have a family history of having acne, most probably you will develop acne too. Acne is an inflammation of the skin caused by dirt and oil trapped inside your pores. It is also due to an active oil gland that produces sebum excessively. Higher incidence of pimples can occur if you have pores that are closer together. Due to this, pimples usually appear on the jaw line, nose, forehead and chin; it is, however less common on the cheeks. The most persistent acne is cystic acne. This type of acne can result in deep and severe scarring and remains under the skin for days or even weeks. Cystic acne cannot be treated with salicylic acid or benzyl peroxide. If you have this type of acne, you should consult a dermatologist because he is more likely to solve this type. Mild acne can, however, be cured with salicylic and benzyl peroxide.
- What is Salicylic Acid? There are many over-the-counter acne treatment products that contain salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is a weaker version of beta-hydroxyl acid. This acid has many cosmetic and medicinal benefits. Salicylic acid can treat dandruff, warts and acne. This acid has various strengths and can be used for different types of ailments. For pimple problems, your salicylic concentration should not increase by more than 2%. This concentration can be purchased without prescription. Higher concentrations are used to treat severe cases of acne. Salicylic acid can also be effectively used for whiteheads and blackheads. It is a known treatment that can bring positive results to your skin.
- Acne and Salicylic Acid. Mild and moderate acne can be treated with salicylic acid. In higher concentrations it can be very damaging to your skin, but concentrations of 2% and below are helpful in the treatment and prevention of acne. Salicylic acid helps unclog your pores. Since we know that pimples are due to clogged and infected or inflamed pores, this product cleanses your pores. Salicylic acid enters your pores and effectively gets rid of clogging residues that cause acne. Benzyl peroxide, however, acts as an agent that kills bacteria that causes acne. Both can be used in your regimen for a more extensive acne treatment system. It is advisable to use at least a 2% concentration of salicylic acid for mild to moderate cases and to continuously keep your face free from pimples, acne, whiteheads or blackheads. For best results, use the lowest concentration on a regular basis. Low concentrations should also be used if you have sensitive skin so as not to irritate your skin further.
Tips and warnings
- If you use this type of product, make sure you stay away from the sun or use a non-comedogenic sunscreen. Your skin can become too sensitive from the chemicals that you apply and then become irritated and red.
