4 benefits of salicylic acid

Acids have been a popular ingredient in skincare products for the last few years. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid, derived from willow bark, as well as fruits and vegetables, which helps to exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear.1 A beta-hydroxy acid is one where the hydroxy part of the molecule is separated from the acid part by two carbon atoms. This structure makes it more oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the pores of the skin.²

Salicylic acid is available in a range of skincare products, so it is easy to incorporate one or more of these into your usual cleansing routine, which you should follow both morning and evening. For a basic skincare routine, you cannot beat a cleanse, tone and moisturise:

Hailed as a hero ingredient by beauty editors and skincare specialists across the world, salicylic acid has lots of benefits for your skin.

Blackheads, whiteheads and pimples occur when your pores become full of dead skin cells and oil. Salicylic acid penetrates the skin and helps to unclog your pores. It can take a few weeks to see the full effects of this.⁵

We all know how important it is to exfoliate two or three times each week and salicylic acid has exfoliating properties. It helps to purify and exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells that build up on the surface.⁶ This exfoliating action helps your skin to look and feel really clean.

Suffering from an oily T-zone or just oily skin in general? Salicylic acid could be your skincare saviour. It helps to reduce the amount of oil that is produced by your oil glands. As well as making your skin appear less oily, it will also mean that it is less likely that new spot-causing blockages will form or grow, meaning that you will be less likely to suffer from breakouts.⁷

Salicylic acid has some properties that help to reduce the redness that is associated with some spots.⁸ This can help to reduce some of the pulsing or throbbing sensations that can often come with large spots.

As well as for use on the face, you can also get salicylic body wash. On the body, it works in just the same way as the face. Salicylic acid helps to clear away dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of the skin, as well as alleviate spot-prone skin and improving skin texture.⁹

Salicylic acid is considered safe to use on the skin. However, as with all skincare products, it is important to be aware of any adverse effects that it may have. Always carry out a patch test before using a new skin product for the first time. Potential side effects include skin irritation, removing too much oil resulting in dryness, a tingling or stinging sensation in the skin, itching, peeling and hives. If any of these occur, you should discontinue use.