The current skincare and grooming space would be unimaginable without one of the buzz-worthy ingredients, salicylic acid. This single chemical component revolutionised the way we target pimples, blackheads and oiliness. From face washes to deodorants, salicylic acid is favoured by so many grooming and beauty experts. The easiest way to incorporate salicylic acid is in the form of a serum. It has a lightweight, watery consistency that can work on all skin types. Before we explore the benefits of using salicylic acid serum, let’s get to know this popular ingredient.
What Is Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic Acid is a chemical exfoliant that is also known as BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) which belongs to a class of acids known as salicylates. It’s commonly derived from willow tree bark and wintergreen leaves. This chemical exfoliant is also known as a lipophilic as it dissolves lipids and oil which is why salicylic acid serum is relatively more popular among those with oily and acne-prone skin. However, when used correctly, it can suit all skin types and tackle multiple skin concerns. Here are some benefits of salicylic acid serum.
Benefits Of Salicylic Acid
1. Clears Out Excess Oil
If you have shiny, greasy skin, it could be a sign of excess sebum production. A few drops of salicylic acid can help dissolve excess oil to give the skin a mattified look. Using a salicylic acid serum and a lightweight moisturiser can add hydration and keep this challenge at bay.
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2. Draws Out Impurities
Heat, humidity, pollution, sweat and natural oils can deposit a lot of impurities into the skin, making it look dull and coarse. A BHA serum penetrates deep into the skin to draw out the impurities for clear, glowing skin. Make sure to use a face wash at least once a day to properly cleanse the skin. This will help the serum absorb deeper into the skin and perform better.
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3. Soothes Inflamed Pimples
Breakouts can happen due to multiple reasons ranging from hormonal imbalances to adverse skin reactions. Sometimes, they may not be as cumbersome. Other times, these could be red, inflamed and painful. In such cases, you can either use a few drops of salicylic acid serum all over the face or accompany it with a spot treatment for a concentrated treatment. This will relieve the swelling while drawing out the sebum build-up and bacteria.
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4. Reduces Whiteheads & Blackheads
Blackheads and whiteheads are another bumpy skin concern that can contribute to rough skin. When excess sebum and grime harden over time, they plug the pores resulting in whiteheads and blackheads. Salicylic acid loosens the sebum and dissolves the trapped grime and bacteria. Along with using salicylic acid once a week, you can even use a charcoal face mask once in a while too to draw out stubborn build-up in the pores. However, it’s recommended to use both products on separate days to avoid irritation.
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5. Provides Deep Exfoliation
When dead skin cells accumulate on the skin, it hinders the production of new skin cells. Cell turnover can help improve the skin’s appearance by reducing dark spots and other signs of hyperpigmentation and premature ageing. Salicylic acid deeply exfoliates the skin to remove dead skin cells and reduce pigmentation and dullness. Incorporating an AHA-BHA peeling solution on separate nights can also accelerate new skin cell turnover.
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6. Tackles Greasy Scalp & Dandruff
Yes, salicylic acid serum benefits also extend to your scalp. After all, your scalp can also get greasy and itchy due to product build-up, sebum and sweat. Also, if you struggle with dandruff, a salicylic acid serum would be perfect as it dissolves the unwanted flakes. A clean, fresh scalp also means nourished hair follicles for better strength and density.
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7. Gets Rid Of Ingrown Hair
Thanks to its exfoliating properties, salicylic acid serum helps prevent ingrown hair by getting rid of clogged sebaceous filaments and dead skin cells. The ideal way to use it would be once to twice a week on your face, neck and beard. However, make sure you shave on separate days to avoid skin inflammation. This tip would also be helpful for arms, legs and chest.
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8. Can Help Control Body Odour
If you struggle with body odour, consider using salicylic acid serum on your underarms. Your underarms can get clogged with sweat and sebum, making it the perfect breeding ground for sweat-feeding bacteria. Salicylic acid dissolves excess sweat, sebum and bacteria thereby reducing body odour. Follow this tip once or twice a week and finish it off with a deodorant.
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