Highly reputed, salicylic acid is known to be the magic ingredient for problem skin. Acne, brown spots, blackheads, it improves the appearance of the skin. How to use this asset with many advantages? Decryption.

What is salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid is extracted from willow bark. It can be of natural or synthetic origin:' Salicylic acid is an organic acid, more specifically a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), meaning it contains a hydroxyl group attached to the beta position of the acid. BHAs occur naturally in nature (eg, in fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, etc.), but the salicylic acid used in the cosmetics industry is most often of synthetic origin.' explains Prudvi Mohan Kaka, Scientific Director of DECIEM.

What are the benefits of salicylic acid for the face?

If it appeals so much to cosmetic laboratories, it is because salicylic acid has an exfoliating, antiseptic and keratolytic action. He acts like a gentle peeling and rids the skin of dead cells that dull the complexion, clog pores and promote the appearance of blackheads. It is also an asset of choice for regulate excess sebum and improve skin texture . Fresher, brighter, the epidermis regains radiance: ' Salicylic acid is comedolytic and keratolytic in nature, which means that it promotes the exfoliation of the epidermis by eliminating dead cells on the surface of the skin to help reveal a brighter complexion and a smoother skin texture. Additionally, the lipophilic (fat soluble) nature of salicylic acid allows it to be miscible with the skin's own lipids and thus provides additional benefits that help eliminate signs of congestion. .'

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How to use salicylic acid for acne?

Salicylic acid is recommended for acne-prone oily skin . Thanks to its desquamating action, the component stimulates cell renewal, corrects comedones, blackheads, tightens skin texture and smoothes skin irregularities.

How to use salicylic acid to fight dark spots?

The also blurs the Brown stains by eliminating the clusters of melanin accumulated in the stratum corneum. It is found in the composition of many products (lotions, creams, serums, masks, peels, etc.). Generally well tolerated by all skin types, salicylic acid is a very active ingredient whose concentration is regulated by the European Commission. When used in serums and creams, salicylic acid is formulated at a maximum of 2%.

According to the scientific director of DECIEM, salicylic acid requires certain precautions for use:

• Test your skin's tolerance

'When introducing exfoliating acids into your daily skincare routine, consider your skin's tolerance, priority skin concerns, and type of formula used. It is very important to allow her skin to gradually build tolerance by starting with low concentration formulas and gradually increasing the percentage to reduce the risk of developing skin sensitivity.'

• Follow the instructions for use given

'It is important to note that by leaving an exfoliating formula on the skin beyond the recommended exposure time, by applying a product to skin that shows lesions or by combining several exfoliating products in a single care routine, you run a greater risk of over-exfoliating your skin and leaving it more vulnerable to inflammation and sensitivity.For this reason, it is essential to follow the instructions for use, warnings and contraindications of the products For example, our 2% Salicylic Acid Mask is a wash-off treatment that can be used up to twice a week and shouldn't be left on for more than 10 minutes.'

• Use sunscreen

'In addition, direct acids can increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun, and more particularly the risk of sunburn. For this reason, we advise you to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit your sun exposure for the duration of use of the product and one week after.

What are the dangers ?

' Salicylic acid should not be applied to dry, damaged or damaged skin. It should also not be used as part of a peptide skincare routine, as the acidic nature of salicylic acid could cause peptide hydrolysis. It should also not be used in combination with EUK 134 0.1% from The Ordinary, as this may compromise the integrity of this antioxidant. Finally, it should also not be used in combination with other keratolytic ingredients, such as retinoids or other direct acids, as this may lead to excessive exfoliation of the skin. .'

Thanks to Prudvi Mohan Kaka, Scientific Director of DECIEM.

Source journaldesfemmes.fr