5 products found
Oil Control Pads Acne Treatment
GSR® Oily + Acne-Prone Skin
Complexion Clarifying Serum
All Skin Types Oily + Acne-Prone Skin Redness
Retinol + Acne Complex
Oily + Acne-Prone Skin TSA Approved
Dual Action Scrub
GSR® Oily + Acne-Prone Skin AM or PM
Complexion Renewal Pads
GSR® All Skin Types
Salicylic acid for skin FAQs
Salicylic acid works on two levels. It breaks down the outer layers of the skin, clearing away dead cells on the surface. It also works deeper in pores to clear congestion and minimize breakouts.
Some of the key uses for salicylic acid on the skin include:
• Clearing acne and blackheads: Due to its non-comedogenic properties, salicylic acid can get deep into the pores and break down any oil that's clogging them. This makes it good for tackling acne and blackheads.
• Combating oily skin: Salicylic acid draws out the excess oils that clog pores, gently exfoliating the surface to clear away the dirt that settles on the skin.
• Soothe redness: It can help reduce the redness that's associated with acne by cleaning the skin and removing excess oils.
• Promote a more youthful-appearing complexion: As it's an exfoliator, this acid is particularly good at gently improving cell turnover, leaving the skin looking fresh and re-energized.
When considering how to use salicylic acid on your face, it's important to remember that it's an ingredient rather than a product. This means that where it sits in your skincare routine and how you use it will depend on the product it features
in.
- Cleanse: If this BHA is included in your cleanser, you'll start your routine with it. This first stage will remove oil and impurities.
- Tone: Apply your salicylic acid toner after cleansing. It’s best applied with a cotton pad as part of either your morning or evening routine.
- Apply the salicylic acid serum: Apply 2-3 drops of serum to your face. Allow the serum to fully absorb into your skin before applying other products. Take caution when layering with actives like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinoids.
- Moisturize: Complete your routine with your regular hydrator to lock in the serum.
You might want to just use salicylic acid at one stage of your routine or in several. However, it's not recommended that you use it at every stage.
Unless your skin is very sensitive, you should be able to use a cleanser daily. However, introduce these salicylic acid toners and serums into your routine slowly. You may find your skin can tolerate daily applications or it could become
part of your morning and evening regimen.
You can use salicylic acid with retinol. Those who have a combination of skin concerns such as fine lines and blemishes can benefit from incorporating them into the same routine.
Retinol is a form of vitamin A and is used to combat signs of aging, breakouts, and skin discoloration. For those who want to focus on these concerns along with the clogged pores and breakouts that salicylic acid is used for, it can be a great combination.
To bring these two ingredients together, always begin with salicylic acid. Once you've cleansed your skin, apply the acid as this will clear excess oils and penetrate pores. Leave it to absorb and when you're ready, move on to retinol.
It's worth noting, however, that using the two can potentially irritate the skin. This may damage the skin barrier and mean you have to strip your routine right back while it heals.
To help reduce the chances of your skin barrier becoming compromised, we recommend introducing salicylic acid and retinol gradually into your routine. Even if you've been using salicylic acid for a while, if you're adding retinol, leave time
between using each – ideally 48 hours. When your skin has adjusted, you can build up to incorporating these
ingredients into your regular regimen.
Benzoyl peroxide is often included in acne treatments. Its role is to tackle the acne-causing bacteria known as P. acnes. Unlike salicylic acid, which clears your pores, benzoyl peroxide destroys the bacteria that cause acne. It's available in over-the-counter skincare products with concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10%.
Both this and salicylic acid are useful for managing breakouts. However, they're best used on their own as combining them in your routine can dry out your skin, leading to irritation.
To help you decide which is the best option, consider using salicylic acid to combat whiteheads and blackheads. The acid's oil-soluble properties will help draw out excess oils and dead skin cells.
If you have inflammatory acne with papules and pustules, reach for benzoyl peroxide. This will stop outbreaks at the source. Just be aware of the concentration level to ensure it's not too strong for your skin.
If you're trying to choose between glycolic acid and salicylic acid, it's worth thinking carefully about the skin concerns
you have.
Glycolic acid is an AHA found naturally in sugarcane. Like salicylic acid, it acts as an exfoliator. But unlike salicylic acid, it works mostly on the skin's surface (instead of in pores) and is ideal to address hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone, fine lines, and wrinkles.
So, if you're trying to address clogged pores or oily skin, salicylic acid is better to incorporate into your routine.
Niacinamide complements salicylic acid in a skincare routine. It's a form of vitamin B3 and is known for boosting the skin's hydration, reducing the appearance of pore size, and helping with clearing congestion.
When used in tandem with salicylic acid, it can help to make skin appear brighter and smoother. Niacinamide should follow products containing salicylic acid in your routine.
Topical salicylic acid is generally safe to use in pregnancy, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. This is because the formulations in these skincare products contain low concentrations. If you're unsure, always consult with your medical practitioner.
For over 15 years, we've provided medical-grade skincare. We're a pioneering physician-dispensed skincare brand, offering our customers innovative, high-quality products.
- Backed by science: We use science-based methodology to develop exceptional skincare solutions. Dr. Zein Obagi, our founder and world-renowned dermatologist, has championed advanced formulations for over 35 years.
- Award-winning: Our products have been recognized by beauty editors and industry professionals.
- Skincare for all: ZO® skincare products are made for all types of people, regardless of skin type, condition, age, or ethnicity.
- In-office treatments: We've partnered with experienced physicians to deliver cutting-edge treatments. Use our Physician Finder to see a local ZO® Authorized Physician.
- Skincare subscription service: Get your favorite products delivered to you when you need them. Subscribe today for 5% off and free shipping with every subscription delivery.
Want to learn more about how we can help you enhance your skin? Speak to our expert team of Skincare Specialists. They're on hand to answer your questions and help boost your skin health. Contact us today to get started.
Oops...
Sorry, we did not find any products that match the selected filters.
You can back to previous results to select something different.