Salicylic Acid Vs. Benzoyl Peroxide for Cystic Acne

Cystic acne occurs when acne lesions combine under the skin to form large bumps. Two of the most common medications used to treat this condition are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Both are effective, but in different ways.

New Skin Production

Salicylic acid is better than benzyl peroxide at speeding up new skin production. It dissolves the cement that holds dead skin cells together so they can be sloughed off more easily.

Killing Bacteria

Both salicylic acid and benzyl peroxide are antibacterial in nature. However, benzoyl peroxide oxygenates the skin, proving more effective at killing bacteria.

Delivery Method

Benzoyl peroxide is available in cream and gel form. Salicylic acid is more commonly used as a liquid.

Effectiveness

Each of these medications can be effective in treating cystic acne. They can even be used together, one in the morning and one at night, to work at the problem from two different angles.

Considerations

Both of these medications are very drying and can cause excessive peeling in certain individuals. An oil free moisturizer can minimize the effects.

References

• National Institutes of Health Medline Plus: Acne
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Benzoyl Peroxide
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Salicylic Acid