Spots can affect all skin types. They are caused by the presence of bacteria in the sebaceous glands. Salicylic acid is a powerful antibacterial agent that helps combat these blemishes.
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Salicylic acid, the ingredient for combating acne.
Summary
Published October 20, 2021,
updated on July 26, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
Acne: Definition and Causes.
According to the S.F.D. (French Society of Dermatology), 15 million people in France are affected by acne problems, of which 3.3 million are over the age of 15. This skin disorder affects approximately 80% of teenagers (of which 15% present severe acne) and nearly 25% of adults, particularly women. It can appear both on the face and certain parts of the body (chest, back, buttocks...). The primary reason for consultation with a dermatologist, this skin condition can lead to a lack of self-confidence and significant psychological distress.
This chronic inflammatory disease develops at the level of the pilosebaceous follicles-sebaceous glands: the sebaceous glands secrete sebum that is too thick or in too large a quantity, which blocks the orifices and causes spots and/or blackheads. This is then referred to as dysseborrhea.
This condition is often triggered by stress, pollution, and hormones. An unhealthy lifestyle (lack of sleep, smoking, unbalanced diet, poor hygiene...) can also initiate or exacerbate this sebum alteration, leading to the emergence of blackheads or blemishes. Moreover, in this fat-rich environment, a bacterium usually present in small quantities on the skin, Propionibacterium acnes, proliferates, which triggers an inflammatory response in the skin.
The benefits of salicylic acid on acne-prone skin.
Salicylic acid treatments are particularly recommended for taking care of oily skin and skin prone to acne. This active ingredient works on several levels:
Skin cell renewal :
Salicylic acid stimulates skin regeneration. Thanks to its keratolytic properties, it removes dead cells from the skin's surface and inhibits pore blockage that leads to acne. Thus, it effectively combats the appearance of blackheads and tightens pores for a brightened and unified complexion.
Prevention of bacterial development :
The surface of the epidermis can be colonised by harmful microorganisms that disrupt the microbiota and cause redness, irritation or sometimes painful spots. Thanks to its properties as anantiseptic, salicylic acid prevents the proliferation of harmful bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes, a microorganism responsible for the inflammatory reactions of acne.
Pain Relief :
An acne-prone skin is often a source ofdiscomfort. Spots can cause tingling, itching, and burning sensations. The soothing virtues of salicylic acid alleviate the symptoms related to inflammation. Indeed, salicylic acid plays a role in the arachidonic acid cascade and inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins E2, molecules responsible for inflammatory and painful effects. In the treatment of acne, it thus soothes painful spots and visibly reduces redness.
Sources
IL-HWAN KIM. Salicylic acid peels for the treatment of acne vulgaris in Asian patients. Dermatologic Surgery (2003).
SEBASTIN F. Acne Medications. Pharmaceutical News (2014).
FRANK P. Topical application of azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc, and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne treatment. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2020).
REGULATION (EC) No 1223/2009 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 30 November 2009 concerning cosmetic products.
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