Key Considerations and Tips : Can You Use Salicylic Acid Every Day?

Can You Use Salicylic Acid Every Day?

Salicylic acid is the popular Beta hydroxy acid (BHA) often found blended into blemish-fighting skincare products. Compared to Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) salicylic is oil-soluble meaning it can penetrate further down into the lower layers of the skin and help to unclog pores of any bacteria, debris or excess sebum that can develop into a spots, blackheads and other forms of blemishes. It is also a powerful chemical exfoliant, meaning it is able to slough through away any build-up of dead skin cells that often lead in the complexion looking dull, dry, lacklustre and often experiencing flaky, dry patches on the skin.

Salicylic acid can be blended into various formulations of skincare products, with serums generally containing the highest amount of potency. This makes the ingredient highly is effective at keeping the skin clear and healthy, but has gained a reputation for becoming very drying to the skin if misused or overused throughout your daily skincare routine. If you are wanting to know more about this clever BHA, you can check out our guide on the skincare benefits of salicylic acid.

Is it ok to use salicylic acid every day?

Yes it is considered ok to use salicylic acid every day, however, due to it sometimes resulting in the skin becoming irritated many skin experts and dermatologists suggest using the acid in moderation, starting by applying it 3 times a week and if there are no signs of any reactions, you can build up the usage by one or two more days. When using an over the counter product you can expect to find the percentage of the salicylic acid to be between 0.5% to 2% in strength, anything higher is found in prescription products and used in treatments performed by a trained beauty professional. Allowing enough time for the skin to adjust to powerhouse acid is the best way of avoiding any skin irritation or flare-ups.

To help you get a better understanding of how salicylic acid works on the skin and how often you should use it;

Start by using a product containing salicylic acid 3 times a week

If there are no signs of irritation you can increase the frequency you use the product

Allow your skin to adjust fully to using salicylic acid to avoid any skin reaction, such as stripping it of vital oils

If you have a dry or sensitive skin type you should avoid using salicylic acid as it is too potent for the skin

If you are still concerned with how the acid will affect your skin consult your GP or dermatologist

If you have an oily or blemish-prone skin try applying a serum containing salicylic acid during your evening routine as this allow more time for the ingredient to combat any skin concerns while you sleep

Always perform a patch test for 24 hours before applying any product to your skin

Ensure you always apply a daily SPF of 30 and above to protect the skin from harmful UV ray damage

There you have some helpful tips about how to use salicylic acid and the precautions you have to make when introducing it into your skincare routine. If it is breakouts and spots in particular you are wanting to target you can find out more in our blog post about how to treat breakouts with salicylic acid.

How often should you use salicylic acid?

You are able to use salicylic acid twice daily, but only after your skin has built its tolerance. Oily and acne prone skin will benefit from frequent application, however precautionary actions should always be followed when using this potent ingredient. When considering how often you should use salicylic acid can begin with the type of skincare product you decide to use, face wash for example, generally contains a lower percentage of the exfoliant and including the fact you have to rinse it off you are able to use it every day. Remembering of course to keep an eye on how your skin is feeling and looking to avoid irritation.

As for acid toners they generally remain on the skin for longer amount of time and contain a higher level of acid in their formulations, they can however be used daily if your skin is happy for you to do so. Toners enriched with chemical exfoliants, such as BHA, are hugely beneficial for the skin and can slough away the barrier of dead skin from the face resulting in optimal product skin penetration. Over the counter serums contain the highest percentage and should only be used 3-4 times a week allowing the skin to reap the rewards without it becoming too harsh.

Face Cleanser & Gel containing 0.5-5% use once per day

Lotions containing 1-2% use 1 to 2 times a day

Blemish Ointments containing 3-6% use as needed topically on blemishes

Exfoliating Pads containing 0.5-5% use 1-2 times a day

All Over Solutions containing 0.5-2% use 1-2 times a day

What are the side effects of salicylic acid?

The most common side effects you can experience when using salicylic acid are;

Stinging or burning sensation when you first apply the product the skin that can last for over 5 seconds

Tightness and dryness to the skin from using a product that is too potent for your skin type

Flaky, red patches of skin

Breakouts of acne and spots due to the skin becoming stripped of essential sebum

If you experience any swelling, blistering or rashes on the skin you should stop using the product immediately and seek the help from a doctor

If you find yourself overusing any of these products mentioned you may find your skin becomes tight and uncomfortable, this is due to the skin’s natural protective barrier becoming damaged with the vital oils and water being stripped from the skin by the exfoliating acid.

When should I stop using salicylic acid?

You should stop using salicylic acid if you find your skin to be prone to frequent breakouts then using salicylic acid should become a regular step in your skincare routine. By teaming the chemical exfoliant with a number of other skincare ingredients you will create a cocktail of products which will give you the most healthy and happy skin.

Here are some examples of skin ingredients that will compliment and help the skin look its best;

Hyaluronic acid

Niacinamide

Vitamin C

Glycolic acid

Lactic acid

Retinol

All of the ingredients are very potent and some, such as retinol and glycolic acid must be introduced into your routine slowly and only once you have been given the go ahead from a dermatologist or skincare professional. Finding the right routine for you is not an easy task and it may take you a couple of goes at finding the best formulas and products for you, once you do, you will have the most luminous, clear and youthful skin.

Is it normal to breakout after using salicylic acid?

Yes, potent ingredients such as salicylic acid can often result in a flare-up of irritation and negative skin reactions. This is normally due to the increase of the exfoliation of dead skin cells which can often cause dryness and discomfort.

You may also find that you suffer from frequent breakouts and blemishes as salicylic acid works deeply in the pores. It will then push all the unwanted “gunk” to the surface of the skin resulting in various spots and breakouts, such as blackheads and whiteheads. These blemishes will appear after the first couple applications and will begin to subside after 4 weeks. If however, you find there’s no improvement, stop using your salicylic acid product and seek the advice of your doctor or dermatologist.

There you have a little more details about using salicylic acid and how to use it every day, don’t forget to come and give our Instagram a follow to find out more.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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