For skin prone to blemishes and impurities, the use of salicylic acid treatments is recommended. This organic compound is found in willow bark, from which it derives its name, but also in many fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, melons, raspberries, grapes, apricots, cucumbers, spinach... When should this active ingredient be used and how often?
When and how often should salicylic acid be used?
Summary
Published on October 20, 2021, updated on July 26, 2024, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 5 min of reading
Themes:
The benefits of salicylic acid.
Salicylic acid has numerous virtues for skin care. Due to its properties sebum-regulating and antiseptic, it is particularly recommended for treating blemishes and eliminating impurities. It inhibits the proliferation of harmful microorganisms on the skin surface, such as Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for the inflammatory reactions of acne. Its keratolytic action regenerates the skin, removes scales and stimulates cell renewal. The pores are tightened and the complexion is brightened. Finally, its soothing virtues alleviate the pain sometimes associated with acne outbreaks and reduce unsightly redness.
In hair care, salicylic acid sanitises the scalp and aids in the removal of any present flakes and dandruff. It is also used to restore shine and lustre to dull and damaged hair.
4 minutes to understand your skin. Our dermatological diagnostic guides you toward the ideal skincare for your specific needs. Simple, quick, personalized.
When should one apply a product containing salicylic acid?
Under the influence of UV rays, skincare products formulated with salicylic acid can cause skin reactions and irritations. Therefore, it is recommended to apply a salicylic acid product during your evening routine, before bedtime, to avoid any exposure. In the morning, opt for a product with sun protection to shield your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. In all cases, to maintain healthy skin, it is advised to avoid excessive sun exposure.
Salicylic Acid, for treatment or regular beauty routine?
Depending on its concentration in the product, this active ingredient is used either as a treatment over a limited period of time or as a daily care during one's evening beauty routine. The European regulation limits the content of salicylic acid to 2% in facial care products.
At a concentration of 1% or less, a salicylic acid product can be applied every evening to a clean, dry face, before bedtime. It will stimulate cellular renewal, eliminate dead cells, and restore the complexion's radiance and luminosity.
Beyond 1%, it is advisable to use this active ingredient in a treatment course, over a limited period of time. It is applied locally, on blemishes, in the evening before bedtime. The first results can be observed after three days.
Our salicylic acid skincare treatments.
Typology offers two treatments rich in salicylic acid to effectively combat blemishes and restore the skin's radiance and brightness.
This serum, to be used as a treatment over a limited period of time, is enriched with salicylic acid (2%) and zinc (1%) and is applied directly to a targeted blemish. Generally, a single drop of serum is sufficient to treat an isolated spot. Typically, the first results are visible after three days of use.
Enriched with anti-bacterial and purifying agents to rejuvenate the complexion, this toner seamlessly integrates into your evening beauty routine. Using a cotton pad, apply it to your entireface, previously cleansed, avoiding the eye contour, preferably in the evening, before your usual night cream. It helps to limit the growth of bacteria and refines the skin texture.
Sources
REGULATION (EC) No 1223/2009 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products.
IL-HWAN KIM & co. Salicylic acid peels for the treatment of acne vulgaris in Asian patients. Dermatologic Surgery (2009).
SEBASTIN F. Acne Medications. Pharmaceutical News (2014).
ARIF T. Salicylic Acid as a Peeling Agent: A Comprehensive Review.Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2015).
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