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In the battle against acne, there are a few ingredients you should know about. Salicylic acid is the one ingredient that should be in your skin routine if you struggle with breakouts.
Here is everything you need to know about it, including the best Korean salicylic acid skincare products we curated for you.
What is salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is derived from willow bark, and it belongs to a class of ingredients called salicylates. It is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHAs) and like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) it is an acid with exfoliating properties.
Furthermore, alpha and beta hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin, but AHAs are water-soluble, while BHAs are oil soluble. So let’s talk about those a little bit more.
What are the differences between an AHA and a BHA?
AHAs and BHA are acids impact skin condition in a different way. AHAs are water-soluble acids and they work on the surface of the skin. They remove dead skin cells revealing more radiant skin. BHA is oil-soluble has the ability to remove dead skin cells but also go deeper and dissolves impurities and excess sebum that leads to breakouts.
What does salicylic acid do for the skin?
Salicylic acid for blackheads or whiteheads works wonders. It dissolves skin debris that clogs pores and causes acne. It has the ability to regulate skin cells. If your skin is already tackling imperfections, salicylic acid will help reduce inflamed skin.
What skin types should use salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid will be perfect for blemish-prone and uneven skin types. It will help to prevent pore clogging and at the same time provide anti-inflammatory properties.
The star ingredient for many teenagers is very effective against cystic acne due to its antibacterial properties. Also, it can also help to treat adult acne and hormonal acne.
How to use salicylic acid?
Originally, salicylic acid has been used as a spot treatment. However, now it is used to prevent skin issues. That is why it is used now in cleansers, toners, exfoliators up to skin cream.
While using salicylic acid, we always suggest using extra care and apply sunscreen.
Salicylic acid has the ability to irritate and dry skin creating sensitivity. That is why it is always great to put extra measures for sensitive skin and use it as a topical treatment if your skin is extra sensitive.
How often should I use salicylic acid?
While salicylic acid can be used daily, we always recommend introducing it into your routine slowly. Start with every two or three days to ensure you do not irritate the skin and over dry it. Moderate approach is always the best as salicylic acid deeply penetrates congested skin.
Can You use salicylic acid with niacinamide?
Yes, you can with extra safety steps. Niacinamide is relatively non-irritating when paired with actives. However, when we apply ingredients like AHA or BHAs, we need to give the skin the opportunity to allow them do their job. For example if you use salicylic acid cleanser or BHA exfoliator it will clear pores allowing then niacinamide to quickly improve uneven tone, minimize pores and visibly reduce wrinkles and discolorations.
What are the best salicylic acid products?
The top brands which offer over-the-counter acne solution use salicylic acid at levels between 0.5 percent and 2 percent. In our offer, we have some amazing Korean salicylic acid skincare products. Here is a little bit more.
What are the best salicylic acid cleansers?
A salicylic acid cleanser is perfect for acne-prone skin types. It will help keep pores clear, preventing breakouts before they occur. Some of the best cleansers are:
- Some By Mi AHA.BHA.PHA 30 Days Miracle Foam 100ml It not only refines skin texture but also controls excessive oil.
- COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser with a 0.5% salicylic acid
- By Wishtrend Acid-Duo 2% Mild Gel Cleanser
- COSRX AC Collection Calming Foam Cleanser (150ml)- which will be great for adult acne and hormonal acne.
Salicylic acid is an exfoliator
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid 100ml is a blackhead treatment that combines salicylic acid alongside humectants and soothing willow bark water. If you are looking for a strong and effective exfoliating toner, this is a product for you.
Salicylic acid toner
Easily overloaded skin will enjoy salicylic acid toner or treatment mist. We have for you Klavuu Green Pearlsation Teatree Care Body Spray that will be perfect for you if you struggle with body acne.
In our offer you will also find top Korean salicylic acid toners:
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