What is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid, also known as 2-hydroxybenzoic acid (BHA), was originally produced from a substance that comes from the bark of the willow tree. The substance found in willow bark is a hormone called salicin, and is also found in Asprin. 

What is it used for?

This fat soluble acid, when used as a topical agent as is the case when used as a peel or cream, breaks down lipids (oils and fats) in the upper layers of the skin. As Salicylic Acid is soluble in fat, it has a deep cleansing effect on the pores, which makes it a great treatment for blackheads. It has been used to treat  a variety of skin complaints, including: psoriasis, rosacea, keratosis pilaris and calluses. It is mostly used to treat skin that is prone to acne, blocked pores or breakouts as it sloughs away the dead surface skin, preventing the pores from clogging up, which would lead to congested skin. It is also effective at treating seborrheic dermatitis. 

 

 

What Strength?

10% A Light peel that is very effective at cleansing away excess oils and debris from the pores. May be used once weekly if the skin tolerates it well.

20% A medium peel which can be used once the skin is used to 10%. This strength can be used once every 10 days if the skin tolerates it well

30% Is quite strong and is only recommended for use on the body, and by experienced users of salicylic acid peels.

 

 

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