Exfoliation refers is the removal of old dead skin. It can be done physically, with a scrub or stone, or with chemicals like salicylic acid.

Salicylic acid is derived from plants and is one of the most commonly used forms of exfoliating acids. When you’re walking through a drugstore skincare aisle, it’s likely that the majority of cleansers and wipes you see have salicylic acid as one of the active ingredients. Beneficial in treating uneven skin, improving tone and texture, decreasing appearance of fine wrinkles, salicylic acid is a diverse skincare tool that can also help with dilated pores and acne.

Your skin is constantly renewing itself through a 30 day skin cell growth cycle. Even though old, dead skin is supposed to be shed during this cycle, sometimes we tend to hold onto that dead layer. This is what causes your bare face to have a full appearance or a “caked” look to your makeup, even if you aren’t applying a lot. In fact, exfoliating with salicylic acid has also been known to help decrease fine wrinkles in your skin as well, which makes gives makeup a much smoother finish.

Salicylic acid is used for its excellent ability to penetrate the outer layer of skin, which removes the dead skin cells and exposes the fresh, smooth layer underneath. Because of its unique properties, salicylic acid has been researched, used, and perfected over many years to give dermatologists the best tools to aid patients in their skincare journey.

Salicylic acid can be applied in different concentrations. For example, salicylic acid skin care products that you can buy at the drugstore are not as strong as what can be applied in a doctor’s office. Though your dermatologist can help you decide what strength is best for skin, if you have sensitive skin, using a mild form of salicylic acid can help avoid the possibility of irritation.

The large variety of strengths allows salicylic acid to treat a variety of skin types and blemishes. And, with the compounding effects of salicylic acid, the more you use it. the healthier your skin will be, giving you:

• Even exfoliation
• Effective acne treatment
• Reduced appearance of scars
• Smaller pore sizes
• Unclogs pores and remove blackheads
• Helps prevent future breakouts
• Remove age spots

If you want to learn more about the benefits you could experience from using salicylic acid, don’t hesitate to reach out to us or schedule your own concierge dermatology appointment.