The Benefits Of Salicylic Acid For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin

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.

1. 

   Cleanser: Vichy Normaderm Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel

   Enriched with (you guessed it) salicylic acid, this cleanser provides a deep and purifying cleanse that unclogs your pores and washes away excess oil. The greatest thing about it, though, is that it is gentle enough to use every day (it won’t dry out your skin!), so it helps to prevent future breakouts by constantly ridding your pores of excess sebum.

   Simply dampen your face, massage the gel into your palms until it starts to lather, then massage it onto your face, before rinsing it off with water.

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2. 

   Exfoliator: The INKEY List Beta Hydroxy Acid Exfoliant

   This exfoliator is specifically designed for oily and combination skin. The salicylic acid in its formula works to exfoliate the surface of your skin and decongest deep pores, while hyaluronic acid provides long-lasting hydration. Your skin will look clearer and feel renewed.

   Simply apply 1 to 2 drops onto your cleansed skin, then follow up with your regular moisturiser.

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3. 

   Toner: Caudalie Vinopure Clear Skin Purifying Toner

   If you’re after a quick and refreshing effect, then opt for a salicylic acid-infused toner. It melts into your skin to draw out impurities, while also soothing and hydrating your skin. Apply it onto a cotton pad and sweep it over your face. You’ll be left with a clear and glowing complexion.

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4. 

   Serum: Omorovicza Acid Fix

   This multi-purpose serum boasts a trio of acids (glycolic, salicylic and lactic). It works to remove dead skin cells, create a more even skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Apply a thin layer onto cleansed and toned skin in the evening, then cleanse again in the morning. The result? A brighter, healthier and younger-looking complexion.

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5. 

   Moisturiser: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Lotion Exfoliant

   This silky soft lotion is a two-in-one moisturiser and exfoliator that hydrated your complexion and evens out your skin tone. It encourages skin cell renewal, while also moisturising and minimising your pores. Apply it every morning after cleansing and toning for smoother and brighter skin!

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6. 

   Mask: The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

   On days when your skin is particularly oily or you’ve got uncontrollable flare-ups, a salicylic acid mask is the way to go.

   The salicylic acid draws out the excess sebum and oil from your pores, while a blend of charcoal and clay absorbs them, reducing the appearance of blackheads, blemishes and clogged pores. This mask also removes the dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, leaving you with a smoother and clearer complexion.

   Use it once a week on clean, dry skin. Apply an even layer onto your face using clean fingers, leave it to work its magic for a maximum of 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

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7. 

   Targeted Treatment: Origins Super Spot Remover Blemish Treatment Gel

   If you just want to treat one area of your face which is particularly oily or has just broken out, then I’d suggest using a targeted treatment. This works great for combination skin too.

   Simply apply it onto cleansed skin on any area that has flared-up and it will sweep away the toxins, impurities and excess oils to fight off blemish.

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8. 

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