How to Use Aspirin to Make Salicylic Acid for the Face

Use crushed aspirin and water to make an exfoliating face mask.

Salicylic acid, also known as Beta Hydroxy Acid, is a derivative of aspirin that is often found in face care products. It's a gentler acid than Alpha Hydroxy Acid that can help clear pores and increase the rate of cell regeneration. Even if you have oily skin, you can use salicylic acid, but because it is an exfoliate, you do need to use sun protection if you will be outdoors for an extended period of time. To make salicylic acid for your face, you'll only need a couple of aspirin pills and some water.

Things You'll Need

• 2 uncoated aspirin pills
• Water
• Moisturizer

Instructions

1. Place two uncoated aspirin pills in the palm of your hand.

2. Crush the aspirin pills with your other palm. Try to crush the pills into as fine a powder as you can.

3. Drip some water into your hand with the crushed aspirin pills. Use the fingers of your opposite hand to mix the solution until it becomes a paste.

4. Apply the paste to your face and leave it on until dries completely. It should take 3 to 5 minutes to dry.

5. Remove the salicylic acid mixture from your face with water, after it has dried. Gently splash the ace with water until the salicylic acid has been completely removed from your skin.

6. Moisturize your face. The salicylic acid can dry your skin, so a moisturizer will diminish this drying.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't leave the salyclic acid mask on your face longer than it takes to dry.

• Don't use the salyclic acid mask more than once a month. It can dry your skin out.

References

• International Rosacea Foundation: Chemical Peels and Retinoids
• My Women Stuff: Tip: Home Remedy Mask