24^th Aug 2022

How to use Salicylic acid effectively

Are you tired of black heads, whilte heads, milia, breaking out or having congested skin? Read below to discover the big secret on how to use Salicylic acid effectively!

What does salicylic acid do to your skin?

Exfoliation is essential for healthy skin as it helps with

1) Product penetration

2) Reduces future breakouts

3) Removes dead skin & oil

4) Reduces bacteria formation

5) Increased collagen production

6) Helps make-up sit nicely on the skin

7) Makes our skin look smooth & glow

We do not recommend mechanical exfoliation using devices or beads etc as they can cause damage to to the skin membrane when used too aggressively. There are two types of acid; AHA’s and BHA. They both have significant benefits, it just depends on what you are trying to achieve and the type of skin. We would always recommend an initial skin consultation to ensure you are using the correct acid in the right way for maximum results. We also offer an Obagi medical Salicylic Peel at 20% which creates glowing skin and refines pore size.

What can salicylic acid be used for?

Salicylic acid works deeper than AHA’s (such as glycolic and lactic acid) as it is fat soluble. This means that it physically dissolves and breaks down the old sebum and dead skin cells that are trapped deep within the pore. AHA’s are all water soluble which are not able to cut through oil and dead skin. Salicylic Acid is amazing for acne, breakouts and congested skin which in turn reduces acne scarring.

The big secret is to leave salicylic acid on the skin for at least 5 to 10 minutes at night, this acts similar to a home peel.

Do not wash salicylic acid off immediately as it will not have enough time to dissolve the dead skin cells and oil.

Can salicylic acid be harmful?

Do not use  if you are allergic to aspirin, pregnant or have sensitive skin.

Is it OK to use it every day?

It really depends on the strength and the amount of congestion caused by excess oil and dead skin cells. This is why we always recommend a remote skin consultation to advise you specifically.

1) Always pre-cleanse your face first to remove make up.

2) Massage in and leave the wash on for at least 5 to 10 minutes before thoroughly washing off in the shower once a day 3-7 days a week depending on skin type.

We look at unclogging pores similar to unclogging a blocked drain, it just takes a few minutes to work its magic. We even offer prescription strength Salicylic Acid! It can be used on the body to smooth skin, reduce dryness, blackheads, spots and fake tan.

Please do use with caution and don’t forget to wash the salicylic acid off. Leaving the wash on for up to 10 minutes is like a home peel and a perfect solution whilst our clinic is closed due to lockdown.

Should you moisturise after salicylic acid?

Yes, always apply a moisturiser that is suitable for your skin type. We do not recommend mechanical exfoliation using devices or beads etc. as this can damage the skin membrane when used too aggressively.