Amazing Benefits of Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid. We achieve products created with this common ingredient for acne when we see the first signs of a pimple, but what is it really and how does it work? To learn more about this beta hydroxy acid, we reached out to Skincare.com Consultant, Board Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Dhawal Bhanusali.

What is salicylic acid?

Bhanusali tells us that there are two types acids in skin care, alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic acids, and beta hydroxy acids. These acids are used for different purposes, but what they have in common is that they are excellent exfoliators. “Salicylic acid is the main beta-hydroxy acid,” he says. "It's a great keratolytic, which means it helps remove excess dead skin cells from the surface of the skin and gently exfoliates clogged pores." That's why salicylic acid is great for reducing breakouts and blemishes...but that's not all this BHA can do.

Benefits of Salicylic Acid

“Salicylic acid is great for blackheads,” explains Bhanusali. "It pushes out all the debris that clogs the pores." The next time you're dealing with blackheads, instead of trying to pop them out - and possibly end up with a long-lasting scar - consider trying a product containing salicylic acid to try and unload those pores. We love the SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Salicylic Acne Treatment ($90), which is perfect for aging, breakout-prone skin.

Speaking of salicylic acid and skin aging, Dr. Bhanusali tells us that the popular BHA is also great for softening the feel of the skin and leaving you feeling tight and firm after cleansing.

The benefits of BHA don't end there. Our consulting dermatologist says that because it's a great exfoliator, he recommends it to patients who want to soften calluses on their feet, as it can help remove excess dead skin cells on their heels.

Before you overdo it, listen to a few words of caution from the doctor. “[Salicylic acid] can definitely dry out the skin,” he says, so use it as directed and hydrate your skin with moisturizers and serums. Also, don't forget to use a broad spectrum SPF sunscreen every morning, especially when using salicylic acid products!