Customer question:
What is salicylic acid used for? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Salicylic acid is used in various medical and cosmetic products for its anti-inflammatory, keratolytic, and antibacterial properties. It is often used in skin care products such as acne treatment gels, creams, and toners. It removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and reduces inflammation, which can help reduce acne and prevent it from recurring.
Since salicylic acid has a keratolytic effect, it is often used to treat warts on the skin. It can be applied directly to the warts in the form of a cream, solution, or patch, which helps to remove dead skin cells, thereby reducing the size of the warts. Salicylic acid can also help reduce the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis by exfoliating dead skin cells and reducing inflammation and itching.
How does a salicylic acid skin peel work?
Salicylic acid skin peels work in several ways to help improve skin texture, reduce blemishes, and unclog pores. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that acts as a keratolytic, meaning it can penetrate the upper layers of the skin and break down dead skin cells. This helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause blemishes like acne and blackheads.
Salicylic acid is a lipophilic compound that can dissolve in fat. This allows it to penetrate pores and remove accumulated oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. This helps clean the pores, reduce the formation of blackheads, and prevent the formation of acne. Salicylic acid thus regulates the production of sebum (the skin's natural oil), which can help reduce skin oiliness and prevent pore clogging.
When using salicylic acid skin peels, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's directions and avoid overuse, especially if you have sensitive skin. Salicylic acid can cause skin irritation or dryness, so moisturizers and sun protection products should also be used afterward.
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