Salicylic Acid Peel
Salicylic Acid Peel – The Facial Peel for Acne
Salicylic as a beta hydroxy acid
With regard to acne, the best chemical peel to address this is a salicylic acid peel. The salicylic acid (a type of Beta Hydroxy Acid) content of this kind of peel works similar to that of the glycolic acid (subtype of Alpha Hydroxy Acid). But unlike the popular glycolic acid, which is solely water soluble, salicylic acid, is lipid soluble as well. Needless to say, a salicylic acid peel is more effective when it comes to individuals with oily skin.
Another advantage of a salicylic acid peel over a glycolic acid peel is that salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties. So, not only is a salicylic acid peel ideal for oily complexions, it is also better for a person with sensitive skin. However, like all other kinds of chemical peels, a salicylic acid peel would still result to itching, redness and stinging sensations.
Salicylic acid peel uses
As already mentioned, the most important use of a salicylic acid peel is to treat acne. Nevertheless, it can be a treatment for fine lines, blotchy pigmentations, large pores and sun-damaged skin too.
Where could people have salicylic acid peel done?
Like most types of facial treatments, a salicylic acid peel can be performed by a skin expert or at the comfort of people’s homes.
How to do a salicylic acid peel at home
An individual should first determine how much peeling he wants to do. Salicylic acid products can contain as much as 30% concentration of the chemical. People need to keep in mind that they are not advised to exfoliate a few prior to performing a salicylic acid peel. When a person does the peel itself, it will already have an exfoliating effect. Folks do not want to overdo this kind of peel as it could be absorbed deeper into the skin and cause adverse effects.
Before applying the solution, he should wash his face thoroughly. This is to allow the chemical to penetrate the skin properly and to prevent excess oil and dirt to infiltrate the peeled surface of the skin. The salicylic acid is then applied and left for 10-20 minutes. People would feel sensations of burning and stinging. After the recommended time, it is completely rinsed with water. If the burning/stinging continues, cold compress can be utilized.
It is important to put on sun block of SPF 35 or more as the skin is especially sensitive post salicylic acid peel. If an individual does not apply adequate sunscreen, it will result to the peeled area being sunburned.
A salicylic acid peel should be done every week or bi-weekly. After 2 months of application, permit a 1-month “break” for the skin and then start again. Simply repeat the cycle to obtain the best outcome.
Notes about salicylic acid peel
It usually needs an average of 6 to 10 sessions to achieve the desired results. Dark-skinned individuals are informed that frequent treatment of salicylic acid peel might produce permanent hypo-pigmentation.
Bottled salicylic acid peel products could be purchased online and cost around $30 to $50. A dermatologist fee for such a professional treatment would range from $70 to $120 per session.
It is still best to seek medical consult for the appropriate concentration of the product to be used. It is also advisable to ask a professional first since BHA’s can be toxic when accidentally ingested or inhaled.