Are you struggling with blackheads and whiteheads? Get rid of that stubborn dirt and prevent your pores from clogging with this magical ingredient- Salicylic acid. But the question is how to use salicylic acid on the face. Whether you use this as a serum or cleanser, this skincare player will benefit you. This acid is known for its bacteria-fighting ability & cleansing pores. You have to include this ingredient in your skincare routine.

Although it is one of the best skincare ingredients out there, there is often lots of confusion among people regarding its usage. People keep on asking whether salicylic acid is safe to use or not. And what is the best way to apply this acid to the face? So we have come up with this article to resolve all those queries and give you a clear idea of how salicylic acid works and how you can use this to get rid of stubborn acne or gunked pores.

Table of Contents

What Is Salicylic Acid? How Does Salicylic Acid Work?

Salicylic acid is a member of the beta-hydroxy group. We commonly recognize it as BHAs. They are organic carbon-based compounds found naturally in fruits and vegetables.

They are fat-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the skin cells to clean out the pores. This acid is widely known to break protein bonds of dead skin cells, making them easier to be removed. They are a natural exfoliator and give your clean and clear skin.

Key Benefits Of Salicylic Acid

Let’s discuss some key benefits of salicylic acid for your face.

Salicylic Acid As Exfoliator

Salicylic acid works as a peeling agent. It exfoliates dead skin and improves cell renewal rate. It makes your skin appear young and beautiful.

Apply this acid as a toner to bring back that glow that has disappeared under dead skin cells.

Salicylic Acid For Blackheads And Whiteheads

Salicylic acids are great ingredients to get rid of stubborn blackheads and whiteheads. While peeling agents remove them temporarily, this acid removes them from skin cells. It also prevents it from coming back in the future.

It seeps deep into the pores and dissolves all the dirt clogging your pores.

Salicylic Acid for Acne

Acne is caused by clogged pores. Salicylic acid has exfoliating properties that penetrate deeper into your skin to dissolve dead skin cells and prevent clogging of the pores. It also kills acne-causing bacteria providing you with the flawless skin, you have always dreamt of.

Salicylic Acid For Oily Skin

If you struggle with oily skin, you certainly must take salicylic acid. Why? Because it cleans up excess oil and prevents them from coming back. It also cleanses your skin from deep within and cleans all the leftover gunk and dead skin.

How To Use Salicylic Acid On Face?

Salicylic acids are great ingredients for oily and acne-prone skin. They can help you to prevent comedonal acne. They work best on blackheads & whiteheads. But what about dry and combination skin people? Well, now let us talk about that.

So, before you start using salicylic acid, understand your skin type.

You can categorize your skin into three types:- Dry, oily, and combination. Some people can even have sensitive skin.

Oily Skin

We have already discussed how salicylic acid is a must for people with oily skin. If you have acne-prone and oily skin, you have to use the ingredient for its anti-inflammatory properties to soothe irritation and get rid of acne.

Note:

You should try using spot treatment serums if targeting acne or stubborn blackheads/whiteheads.

Dry And Sensitive Skin

If you have dry or sensitive skin then you should reduce the frequency of usage of salicylic acid. Known for its exfoliating properties, it can irritate dry or sensitive skin. It can also remove essential facial oil, causing the skin to dry. But that doesn’t mean you should refrain from using this magical ingredient. You should use it once in a while and cleanser form.

Salicylic Acid Products- Can You Use It Daily?

Salicylic acid is safe to use every day. But if you are just starting it then don’t rush. Take things slowly. Start using it once or twice a week and then increase it with time. Also, you should consider your skin type and concerns before using it daily.

How Often To Use Salicylic Acid?

Precautions

Salicylic acids are great skincare ingredients. But still, there are a few precautions you must take before you use salicylic acid. Let’s discuss them one by one.

Child

A child’s skin is much more sensitive than adults. You should not use this acid on their face as it can irritate them. You should consult with the dermatologist to get a diluted solution of salicylic acid for your child.

Allergies

Before applying salicylic acid to your face, do a patch test. If the surface area appears fine and you don’t feel anything strange, you can start using it.

Pregnant Or Nursing Women

Are you wondering whether a pregnant woman can use salicylic acid or not? Then, of course. Whether you are pregnant or nursing, you can use salicylic acid.

Layering With Other Skincare Ingredients

Layering salicylic acid is easy. You just need to remember these facts, and you are good to go.

Salicylic Acid And Niacinamide	You should use them together for the best results.
Salicylic Acid And Hyaluronic Acid	Best to layer hyaluronic acid after salicylic acid to return moisture to your skin.
Salicylic Acid and Alpha Arbutin	You should use them on alternate days.
Salicylic Acid and Vitamin C	They should not be used together as it can cause skin drying.
Salicylic Acid and Retinols	You shouldn’t use them together as they can be harsh on the skin.
Salicylic Acid and Azelaic Acid	Use them in different routines.

Key Takeaway

Now that we have reached the end of the blog, we hope that you have now enough information to start using salicylic acid in your skincare routine. If you have any questions, let us know in the comment section below.