Salicylic Acid
INCI Name: Salicylic Acid
Purposes: Keratolytic , Masking , Skin-Conditioning Agent , Preservative
Salicylic acid is one of the most well-known ingredients used in skin care products. It is a white crystalline powder most commonly used in anti-acne formulations. It also has been used as an anti-dandruff agent, denaturant, exfoliant, hair-conditioning agent, preservative, and more. It has keratolytic properties - it softens, separates, and desquamifies the cornified epithelium. Some additional uses are for the removal of corns, calluses, and warts.
As an organic acid, it is used as a preservative against yeast and mold. In addition to benzoyl peroxide, it is a workhorse ingredient for problematic skin.
Salicylic acid can exfoliate the skin, both on the surface and within pores. This is a differentiating factor from AHAs because they are water-soluble and cannot enter the pores. Salicylic acid is fat-soluble, so it can work within the pores. It is also an anti-inflammatory - its molecular structure is similar to aspirin.
There are a variety of usage levels that can be found in products. It can be included from 0.1-2% in over-the-counter or supermarket products. There are some professional treatments that use up to 30% in peels. Another interesting fact about salicylic acid is it doesn't make your skin photosensitive.
SKIN CARE WITH Salicylic Acid
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