Skin care products - What is the Big Deal with Salicylic Acid?

It seems like there’s a new miracle cure every day in the cosmetic industry. There are always people willing to spend money on anything that promises to make them look younger and feel better about themselves. The current quick fix it salicylic acid. What exactly is it, and what does it do?

Salicylic acid is an organic acid found in tree bark or certain trees. Native American Indians discovered that chewing the tree bark alleviated headaches and other inflammatory pain. Today, that form of salicylic acid is used to make aspirin.

Skincare products commonly use salicylic acid for its variety of benefits. It fights aging by promoting rapid exfoliation of surface skin cells, exposing an under-layer of fresh new ones. The exfoliation process helps to minimize the appearance wrinkles and fades brown age spots. It’s important to use adequate sunscreen, especially after using an exfoliating product. The newly exposed cells are more susceptible to the suns damaging rays.

Because of its natural anti inflammatory properties, salicylic acid is commonly found in products geared toward those with sensitive skin or conditions like Rosacea. Research even suggests that in addition to its cosmetic benefits, the copper found in some salicylic acid may even have cancer fighting properties.

Most over the counter products contain only one or two percent salicylic acid, which is strong enough to be effective, but gentle enough to be used on a daily basis. A doctor might prescribe a product with a stronger dose, usually four to 14 percent, for short term treatment of a specific problem. Higher percentages, about 20 percent, can be used as dermal peels.

Salicylic acid is great for oily and acne prone skin. Oil control and loosening of blemish-causing blackheads are just another bonus of the exfoliation process. After removing all debris, salicylic penetrates the newly opened pore and kills the bacteria inside. Its anti inflammatory properties help reduce redness and swelling, making the blemish less conspicuous while it heals.

Unfortunately, salicylic acid isn’t for everybody. Used in low concentrations, it is fine for people with sensitive skin, but those who are allergic to it should consider a product with glycolic acid or lactic acid as an alternative. It’s worth noting, that people who are allergic to fruit are possibly allergic to salicylic acid as well.

The effects of salicylic acid have not been studied on pregnant women, but studies have shown that it causes birth defects in animals when consumed orally in doses much stronger than the maximum recommended dose for topical use in humans.

Other medical conditions may be exacerbated by the use of salicylic acid, especially blood vessel disease. Diabetics need to be aware that it can cause ulcerations of the skin, particularly on the hands and feet. People who have recently used Accutane for acne treatment could experience a chemical burn-like reaction.

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