Just dab some on with a cotton swab and let the mixture of salicylic acid and sulfur do their thing. Salicylic acid unclogs while sulfur purifies. Together, the duo zaps zits while you sleep. It smells a little funky at first thanks to the sulfur, but the scent fades and it’s a small price to pay for clear skin. Dr. Chang strongly advocates for sun protection after using any exfoliant, not just salicylic acid. "While salicylic acid may not directly increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, it's always important to protect your freshly exfoliated skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation," she tells us. Apply plaster at bedtime, leave in place for at least 8 hours, remove plaster in the morning, and repeat every 24 hours as needed. Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of salicylic acid topical in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related blood vessel disease, which may require caution in patients receiving salicylic acid topical. Breastfeeding

Struggling with dark spots that just won’t go away? These pads contain lactic acid, retinol, and arbutin (a gentle skin brightener), which are great for clearing up dark marks and hyperpigmentation to reveal a smoother, even texture and complexion.Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Of course, salicylic acid is famed for its spot-fighting powers, but a good product will actually do much more than shrink down an angry pimple, as Dr. Gross explains. “A keratolytic agent, salicylic acid reduces the pH of skin and increases hydration as well as encouraging the process of desquamation (the shedding of dead skin cells). It can also directly dissolve keratin plugs (known as keratosis pilaris) and regulate skin cells to fight acne and blemishes." What are the differences between AHAs and BHA? Traditionally, salicylic acid has been widely used in on-the-spot blemish gels and treatments, but now its powers are being harnessed for prevention as well as cure. A salicylic acid cleanser is a good ally for acne-prone skin types, as it’ll help keep pores consistently clear, preventing breakouts before they occur. A serum is another good option, while easily overloaded skin will love a water-weight salicylic acid toner or treatment mist. There’s just one thing to be mindful of—you can combine AHAs and BHAs like in this product, but the combo can cause irritation in some. Do not use this medicine on irritated skin or on any area that is infected or reddened. Also, do not use this medicine if you are a diabetic or if you have poor blood circulation.Choosing the right type of salicylic acid product is also important. There are plenty to choose from, such as cleansers, serums, creams, scrubs, and more. Dr. Negbenebor says a simple face wash or serum is a good way to incorporate salicylic acid because it leaves room in your skin care routine to moisturize afterwards. Following up with a moisturizer is also a great way to get ahead of dryness or irritation caused by salicylic acid. Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use. Precautions To use any of the above preparations on the same affected area as salicylic acid may cause severe irritation of the skin. Yes, definitely,” says Aguilar. “I strongly encourage my clients with Rosacea and/or keratosis pilaris to exfoliate daily; ensuring that they are not experiencing irritation or over-exfoliation. Gentle exfoliation helps to remove oils that allow bacteria to flourish and the dry, dead superficial layer of skin that often prevents your products from penetrating the skin effectively. I love exfoliating pads with lactic acid or mandelic acid for these skin types.” Skin Type: Acne and breakouts can be caused by a plethora of reasons, irrespective of your skin type. But when looking for a salicylic acid product for your acne-prone skin, it is important to consider your skin type as a wrong formulation choice can worsen your skin condition. For instance, if you have very oily or combination skin, then it is likely that the cause of acne is excess sebum production in your pores. Hence, look for a product with a powerful 2% concentration of salicylic acid that can regulate oil production and treat comedo-induced zits. While this concentration may also work for dry skin, it is better to look at formulations with less than 2% BHAs as that can be effective without being abrasive. Sensitive skin types can get irritated with a powerful concentration of any chemical exfoliant, hence, 0.5% to 1% is a safer choice.