Acne, imperfections, blemishes are problems that are not limited to teens. More and more it becomes an issue for mature skin as well. Is the answer to all those changes is salicylic acid? Is it really the best choice for unwanted blemishes? Read on and learn all about why salicylic acid is still so highly valued in cosmetology!
Salicylic acid in the cosmetology
Even though nowadays salicylic acid is synthetic, its natural source is… tree! White willow to be precise. When extracted it looks like white crystals. Did you know that salicylic acid and the healing properties of white willow were described by the very father of medicine –Â Hippocrates? In the 1820s the production of discharge from white willow bark began and it was named salicylate. Quite fast it was changed into purified crystals form. That is how the salicylic acid we know today was created. Not until the 80s synthetic salicylic acid was developed and this form is now commonly used in cosmetology.
The properties of salicylic acid for the skin
Salicylic acid is widely used in anti-acne cosmetics for young skin. It perfectly cleanses skin and unclogs pores. It narrows pores and at the same regulates sebum production providing relief and satin-like mattifying effect to oily skin. It works also for more than just as an acne cure but also for the shiny skin that suffers from excess sebum production. Salicylic acid can be found in creams but also in toners, serums, face masks, and shampoos for oily hair. If you have a problem with feet hyperhidrosis – salicylic acid will come to your rescue! Its antibacterial and antiseptic properties will allow you to preserve skin clean.
How does salicylic acid work?
- It is a perfect remedy for bacteria and fungus.
- It is dissolvable in fats, including human sebum so it is able to reach deep skin layers, hair follicles, and clogged glands.
- It cleanses skin pores and sebaceous glands, narrows pores, and makes skin smooth.
- It regulates sebum secretion.
- It speeds up and improves the skin’s healing processes.
- It calms inflammations and prevents new ones from appearing.
- It regulates cellular renewal.
- It boosts the action of other cosmetics by improving the skin’s absorptiveness ability.
Is salicylic acid the best remedy for acne?
All cosmetologists agree – it definitely is! There is no better support for the skin suffering from acne than salicylic acid. It is well tolerated by the skin of all ages so you should consider complementing your skincare with cream containing salicylic acid to restore skin with balance and get rid of unwanted blemishes. Just keep in mind, that for the salicylic acid to provide the best results, you need to use its correct concentration. In cosmetics for acne skin salicylic acid is used in 1-2% concentrations. A concentration of 10-20% is used in chemical peels.