Everyone knows that salicylic acid is one of the most potent ingredients in skincare, and some may be surprised to learn that it has different benefits. It can be a little overwhelming, but I assure you it’s easy.
Before we get started, let’s take a quick look at what this clever BHA does for your skin.
What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin care?
Salicylic acid works on the outer surface, breaking down the bonds of dead skin cells that tend to stay on the skin, causing blemishes, spots, blackheads, and other breakouts.
The smaller molecular size of salicylic acid means it can penetrate into the lower layers of the skin and open up the pores. It removes excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, germs, and other pollutants.
Salicylic acid can help regulate sebum production, making it a very effective ingredient for oily skin and those who often break out.
Salicylic acid is most effective for active breakouts like blackheads and whiteheads, and can prevent further blemishes from forming.
If you want to learn more about salicylic acid and its benefits for your skin, read our dedicated blog post on Salicylic Acid on Beauty Insider.
What percentage of salicylic acid is effective?
As I mentioned earlier, different formulas contain different percentages of salicylic acid. Effective daily percentages can be found in over-the-counter products like face washes, toners, and cleansers. Although these are considered the easiest to introduce into your daily routine, experts still recommend starting slowly and using the product only 2 to 3 times per week at first. This will not only help build skin tolerance, but also help you determine if the formula is best for your skin.
Higher, more effective percentages can be found in medical and professional products or treatments. These higher concentrates act more like exfoliants and are preferred by many people for treating specific issues like acne, acne scars, melasma, age spots, and dark spots.
Below is an overview of different formulas that contain salicylic acid, their percentages, and how often to use them.
Gels and Face Washes – 0.5-5%
These can be used once daily as it is a formula that can be rinsed off the skin.
Toners – 0.5-2%
These have similar effects to gels and face washes in that they do not linger on the skin but provide effective exfoliation.
Serum – 3-6%
The combination with other moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid ensures that the skin stays hydrated while avoiding any adverse reactions or irritation.
How often should 10% salicylic acid be used?
Products containing 10% or more salicylic acid exfoliate the skin and should be used as directed to avoid serious side effects. Depending on your skin concerns, using an exfoliating product enriched with 10% salicylic acid every 2-4 weeks can address your concerns, regenerate and rejuvenate your complexion while providing deep cleansing.
As I mentioned earlier, only use this product as directed on the packaging or as recommended by your family doctor. If you notice redness, itching, flaking of the skin, or irritation, you must discontinue the use of the product. Alternatively, you can avoid this altogether by doing a patch test all over your skin 24 hours before use.
Can I use 2% salicylic acid daily?
Yes, you can, but only if your skin has developed a tolerance to the BHA. If you add it to your daily routine, a face wash or cleanser is the best product to get the best results. This is because these formulas rinse off the skin and do not stay on the face long enough to cause irritation or breakouts.
Once your skin has adjusted to the intensity, you can move on to a serum with 2% salicylic acid. I recommend using it as part of your evening routine, as exfoliation can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays. For full protection, always use an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen during your morning routine, even on cloudy and drizzly days, as UVA is always present and can penetrate glass, clouds, and water.
Is 2% salicylic acid enough?
Of course, 2% is the average amount you’ll find in various skincare products in over-the-counter formulas. By having 2% salicylic acid in the product, the product has enough action on the skin to remove dead skin cells, excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria. 2% is also considered the optimal amount for daily use, as it does not cause irritation or unwanted side effects. A word of caution: Avoid using salicylic acid if you have sensitive, dry skin, or are prone to certain skin conditions like eczema. Instead, you can use lactic acid or PHA as they are gentle exfoliants and are better for your skin.
What is the highest level of salicylic acid?
For over-the-counter product formulations, the highest and most effective level of salicylic acid is 2%. If you want a higher percentage, such as 10% or more, you will need to discuss this with a trained professional as this would be required for a peel or facial. It is important not to use products with very high levels of salicylic acid as this can cause severe irritation and side effects to the skin. If you have concerns, consult a doctor or dermatologist to ensure you are using the best product for you and your skin.
