What Does Salicylic Acid Do for Acne?

Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in over-the-counter acne medications. It works by promoting the shedding of dead skin cells that would otherwise block pores and cause pimples. It's extremely effective, but may have unintended side effects for people with sensitive skin. It can over-dry the skin and cause mild redness and irritation.

How it Works

Salicylic acid is a mild acid that works by encouraging the sloughing of dead skin cells. The skin is constantly renewing itself by producing new skin cells and shedding the old, dead ones. Acne is caused by overactive sebaceous glands producing excess sebum. Sebum and dead skin cells clog the pores and create blackheads. Salicylic acid helps keep the pores clear. It also reduces swelling and inflammation of the skin, thereby improving its appearance.

Products

Salicylic acid is found in many over-the-counter acne treatments, from face washes to lotions, creams and medicated pads. You can even buy makeup that contains salicylic acid. The concentration varies from 0.5 percent to 2 percent. Any more than that, and the skin would dry out too much. People with sensitive skin should stick to products with lower concentrations of salicylic acid.

Effectiveness

Salicylic acid is extremely effective at treating and preventing acne. It must be used continuously, even after the skin has cleared. As soon as you stop using it, the symptoms will most likely come back. It is a treatment, not a cure for acne.

Side Effects

The side effects of salicylic acid are usually mild. They include dryness, redness and irritation. You can prevent them by switching to a product with a lower concentration of salicylic acid or by using a moisturizing lotion. You can buy moisturizers that already contain salicylic acid, especially designed not to over-dry the skin.

Precautions

Like all mediation, salicylic acid may interact negatively with other products. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. Don't use several different acne medications at once without first consulting with a doctor. Salicylic acid may make your skin extra sensitive to the sun and to makeup and facial treatments. If you experience severe side effects, discontinue the use of the salicylic acid product and see a doctor.