A plethora of wrinkle creams on store shelves promise a youthful appearance with repeated application. Some of these creams contain retinols, while others contain alpha hydroxy acids. Salicylid acid is still another form of acid found in wrinkle creams. If you have wrinkles, you may want to try the smoothing power of salicylic acid.
Identification
A beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid comes from willow tree bark. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids that penetrate the skin, salicylic acid has a large chemical structure that keeps the acid on the surface of the skin. Salicylic acid is available in a variety of strengths. The Cosmetics Cop website reports that 1- to 2-percent strengths of salicylic acid work best for wrinkle removal.
Function
Salicylic acid works as an exfoliant that sloughs away dead skin cells from the epidermal layer of the skin, making room for the growth of new skin cells. After exfoliation, fine lines and wrinkles appear smoother, giving the skin a more youthful appearance. Salicylic acid also evens out skin tone and removes roughness.
Consideration
Salicylic acid may not be as successful in removing wrinkles as its cousin alpha hydroxy, according to the Harvard Medical School. Alpha hydroxy, derived from fruit acids, penetrates the layers of skin to remove deeper wrinkles. On the other hand, healthy skin that is not overexposed to sunlight can benefit from light exfoliation with salicylic acid.
Potential
Salicylic acid is also an ingredient in chemical wrinkle peels. Prescription-strength combinations of BHAs and other acids remove acne scars, age spots, pigment irregularities and wrinkles. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that a licensed dermatologist can enhance the effects of salicylic peels using a laser or light treatment.
Warnings
The use of wrinkle creams that contain salicylic acid can cause redness and irritation. The National Library of Medicine also points out that it is important to keep products containing salicylic acid away from the openings of your nose and mouth, as well as away from your eyes. If you accidentally get the cream in your eyes, nose or mouth, flush with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if your skin becomes extremely irritated.
