How to Use Salicylic Acid & Benzoyl Peroxide for Face Treatment
Aggravating acne and its subsequent scarring can plague those prone to breakouts throughout adolescence and into adulthood, but using specific facial products can help blemished skin clear over time. When used together, antibacterial benzoyl peroxide and exfoliating salicylic acid minimize fine lines, soothe irritated skin and stop acne at its source 3. Halt breakouts before they mar your beauty routine with a dual over-the-counter regimen designed to speed up cell shedding and clear pores of unwanted oil.
Select a gentle facial moisturizing scrub, cleansing pad or wash that contains salicylic acid. If skin is sensitive, use a product with a 0.5-percent concentration of salicylic acid. Wash your skin twice daily, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft washcloth.
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Dip a cotton ball in a toner that contains salicylic acid. Dab the cotton ball over your oily spots, such as the forehead, nose and chin, after washing. Let the toner soak in and dry.
Apply a pea-size amount of benzoyl-peroxide gel or cream all over your face after toning and let it dry completely. Select a 5-percent formula and use the product only once every other day to test your skin's tolerance for benzoyl peroxide. Increase the formula percentage and frequency as needed.
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Smooth a light oil-free moisturizer over your skin to combat dryness.
Apply a foundation, BB cream or tinted moisturizer that contains benzoyl peroxide with an applicator sponge or brush to combat acne throughout the day.
Spread a clay mask that contains salicylic acid over your face once each week to help exfoliate your skin and reduce oil accumulation. Leave the mask on as directed and rinse thoroughly.
Consult a dermatologist if over-the-counter products do not produce a large enough improvement in skin. You may need prescription products with a higher treatment concentration.
Tips
Apply sunscreen daily to combat sun sensitivity from product usage.
Warnings
Acne may return with cessation of product use.
Salicylic acid can cause irritation if used more than twice daily. Sensitive skin may sting with even mild use.
Benzoyl peroxide can cause drying or peeling and may create bleach spots on clothing.
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References
- Seventeen Magazine: All About Acne
- Teen Vogue: Salicylic Acid vs. Benzoyl Peroxide -- How to Decide Which Acne Fighter Is Right For You
- New Beauty Magazine: Benzoyl Peroxide Versus Salicylic Acid
- Fitness Magazine: Nine Ways to Treat Adult Acne
- Seventeen Magazine: How to Get Perfect Skin
- "Acne Treatment Available without a Prescription." AcneNet. American Academy of Dermatology, 2010. Web. 16 Jul 2010.
- Hegemann I, Toso SM, Kitay K, Webster GF. "Anti-inflammatory actions of benzoyl peroxide: effects on the generation of reactive oxygen species by leucocytes and the activity of protein kinase C and calmodulin." Br J Dermatol 1994; 130:569-75.
- Kligman AM. Acne vulgaris: tricks and treatments. Part II: the benzoyl peroxide saga. Cutis 1995;56: 260-1.
- Russel J. "Topical Therapy for Acne." Am Family Physician 2000;61:357-66.
- Zaenglein AL, Thiboutot DM. "Expert Committee Recommendations for Acne Management." Pediatrics 2006; 118(3):1188-99.
- Goodheart, MD, Herbert. Acne for Dummies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2006. 79-81. Print.
Writer Bio
A writer with a Bachelor of Science in English and secondary education, but also an interest in all things beautiful, Melissa J. Bell has handed out beauty and fashion advice since she could talk -- and for the last six years, write for online publications like Daily Glow and SheBudgets.