From Acne to Psoriasis, Salicylic Acid Does it All

According to research, there are many benefits of salicylic acid and skincare.

Derived from the bark of a willow tree, salicylic acid is a naturally occurring beta hydroxyl. With the same medicinal benefits of aspirin, salicylic acid can relieve skin redness and inflammation in unsightly skin conditions.

While the ingredient comes in many doses and forms like gels, wipes, creams and sprays to treat less invasive skin conditions, patients who suffer from oily skin that deeply clogs pores are often given a potent peel with straight salicylic to clean out the skin.

Noted for the same anti-inflammatory ingredients as aspirin, WebMd warns consumers of possible dangers, stating “people who are allergic to salicylates (found in aspirins) should not use products with salicylic acid,” especially when pregnant since it enters the bloodstream. The popular medical website explains that while dermatologists can prescribe salicylic acid, the cure can also be purchased in lesser doses over the counter.

Available in different percentages and most often found in cosmetic astringents and applied topically, salicylic acid also acts as an exfoliator for psoriasis and seborrheic skin conditions. A Livestrong.com report states “salicylic acid is a beta hydroxyl that is effective when used for exfoliation and there are several ways to use salicylic acid.”

After suggesting acne creams that contain salicylic acid, the report cites Revolution Health’s claim that salicylic acid “exfoliates skin and can improve texture and color of the skin. It penetrates oil-laden hair follicle openings and as a result, also helps with acne.”

By cleansing follicles of excess naturally produced oils in the skin, salicylic acid has been found to wipe out whiteheads and break down blackheads. Promoted on television, Proactiv has stood its ground for almost a decade, curing millions of unsightly skin. The popular product promotes lactic acid as well, claiming the decongestant alpha hydroxyl acid helps clear out skin of unwanted oils.

Though it doesn’t burn, National Institutes of Health (NIH) information service MedlinePlus article explains that skin may become dry or irritated at the beginning of acne treatment with salicylic acid and, if so, should be applied less often. That is why it is so important to contact one’s dermatologist or physician before deciding to interject the ingredient into a daily skincare regimen, rather than find out too late that salicylic acid is too hot for you to handle.

- See more at: http://www.healthyskinportal.com/articles/acne-psoriasis-salicyclic/628/#sthash.pG8HbvJt.dpuf