Salicylic Acid

Salicylic Acid

It's Facial Friday! Today we're talking about salicylic acid!

If you've read the active ingredients in your favorite face wash you've probably read the words "salicylic acid." You might think, "Acid?! What am I putting on my face?!" However this is a very important ingredient in keeping your face clear!

Salicylic acid is what is called a "beta hydroxy acid." That basically means that it's going to dry out what it touches. Now, you may be asking yourself why you would want to put something on your face that will purposely dry it out. Well, if you have those stubborn pimples the best thing for them is to take away any moisture that they may hold. No moisture means no embarrassing pimple popping- unless you're Dr. Pimple Popper, then you can make a fortune!

People and Dr.'s alike use salicylic acid for a wide variety of different things from breakouts, to warts, to even dandruff. However it is very important to know how to care for your skin while using this. After all, it is still an acid! 

Hydration is key! You'll want to use your favorite salicylic acid containing face wash, tone, then hydrate your skin as best you can. Thick, heavy moisturizers are best to use after for a few reasons. You're more likely to use a heavy moisturizer at night when you won't be going out all greasy and night time is the prime time for healing and restoration of the body! Using salicylic acid at night is probably the most important part as your skin will be even more susceptible to sun damage, and believe us- it's much easier to avoid sun damage than to repair it!

There are a few groups of people that should not use products containing salicylic acid though. These people are those with overly dry skin, those who are pregnant, or those taking certain medications. You'll have to ask your doctor if any of your medications will interact with your face wash. For those that are maybe on the edge of thinking "Do I have overly dry skin?" you'll have to remember that it is 100% possible to overuse this product causing your skin to dry out even more. If you're questioning it, you probably shouldn't use it! 

For many people this acid can be a life-changer! Between curing breakouts, to getting rid of dandruff, to removing warts there are so many good uses of salicylic acid- you just have to know how to care for your skin while using it! If you have any questions regarding different face washes, acne problems, or different reactions it's best to talk to your dermatologist. For those every day kinds of questions or to just have your skin pampered our estheticians are always here for you!

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