What is salicylic acid?
Discovered in 1829 by the pharmacist Pierre Joseph Leroux, salicylic acid is a powerful active ingredient being part of the family of beta-hydroxy acids (Bha). There is a second family of acids, called alpha-hydroxy acids (Aha). The initials Bha and Aha should not be unknown to you if you follow the latest Skincare trends! Indeed, it is increasingly common to integrate cosmetic care containing these acids into its routine because they allow perfect exfoliation of the skin.
So where does it come from? Salicylic acid is an active that can be in synthetic form or natural, according to the cosmetics in which it is present. In its raw form, it is extracted from the willow of willow and is called Salicine. We also find this ingredient in medication or household product compositions, in a different form than that of cosmetics.
What are the benefits of salicylic acid?
3 main beneficial actions are given to salicylic acid, and you can guarantee that for once these are the skins tend acneic who will be able to enjoy it!
- Complete exfoliation
The BHA is essentially known for its benefits of exfoliation since it will allow to clean in depth Your skin. Dead skins will disappear more easily, this is called the flavoring, thus allowing cell renewal at the level of the face and therefore a color more brilliant. An action Sebo-Regulator Complete the exfoliation brought by salicylic acid, which will remove the comedies and blackheads that block your pores, while limiting their appearance.
- Anti-bacterial
One of the major benefits of this asset is its antibacterial action, it notably has properties regenerating And antiseptics. The BHA will help you stop the development of fungi, viruses or bacteria that cause acne. Indeed, it is the bacteria stuck in the pores that go; Either create blackheads when they are in contact with air (pores dilated), or white dots when they are closed by the skin (obstructed pores).
- Soothing
Salicylic acid is perfect for countering all visible imperfections of the skin, such as roughness, pores, buttons acne and others. After use, it will guarantee you skin healthy And purified which will counter the inflammatory effects that pimples can cause. This asset will also fight against rashes caused by stress, hormones or imbalance food, in addition to those caused by acne, the goal being to bring you a unified complexion. Very fragile skins with psoriasis or rosacea can benefit from the benefits of BHA: softening cells in order to avoid drying of the skin, irritation and itching.
How to use salicylic acid?
According to European cosmetics regulations, the salicylic acid content for a facial treatment should not exceed the 2% concentration. So start by choosing a care that is low as a percentage of assets or reduce the number of use per week so as not to attack the gaming skin; Start applying the product on dry skin 1 day by 3, then 1 day in 2, and if your skin tolerates the asset well you can use it every day.
It is recommended to use a cosmetics containing salicylic acid in the evening because the exfoliating effect will have more results if your skin is freshly clean and cleaned, as well as the regenerating effect which operates better thanks to cell renewal during the night .
To integrate salicylic acid easily into your natural cosmetic routine, you are advised to use a cleaner, liquid exfoliant, lotion, mask or local treatment for buttons for example. The most important for using any type of care containing this asset is avoid THE outline of the eyes Because the skin at this place being extremely fine, the BHA would be unsuitable.
The great precaution to take concerning the use of BHA or AHA, is the protection skin post use. Indeed, after a strong exfoliation your epidermis will be much more fragile and sensitive, it is therefore necessary to protect shelves UV sun. We recall (for the umpteenth time!) That the sunscreen, or a cream with a SPF index, is not supposed to be an option but OBLIGATORY in your routine.
3 treatments with salicylic acid:
2% Salicylic acid serum typologyLocal imperfections serum - 2% salicylic acid + zinc 1%
Paula’s Choice exfoliating lotion
Skin Perfecting Bha Liquid Exfoliant Full size
Mask 2% Salicylic acid The Ordinary (at Sephora)
The Ordinary | Salicylic acid 2% mask
So who is anxious to test and find smooth and clear skin?