Acne & Aspirin

According to Dr. Mehmet Oz of television's Dr. Oz Show, aspirin does more than relieve minor aches and pains. When dissolved in lemon juice, aspirin forms a paste that can help treat and prevent acne blemishes. The reason is that aspirin is a source of salicylic acid, explains Oz. A mild chemical exfoliant, salicylic acid is frequently found in both prescription and over-the-counter acne treatments.

Acne Basics

Acne is a common dermatological disorder. In fact, about 80 percent of all young people are affected by acne, according to the book "Acne for Dummies." The condition occurs when dead skin cells and excess sebum clog the hair follicles, forming lesions such as cysts, blackheads, whiteheads and pimples.

Salicylic Acid Basics

Salicylic acid is a naturally derived, non-abrasive exfoliant. Unlike abrasive exfoliants, which use small, rough particles to slough off dead skin, salicylic acid works by loosening the glue-like bonds between the cells. This helps peel away the surface layer of skin without scratching the new, healthy layer beneath. Salicylic acid is also oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate sebum-clogged pores.

Treatment

Aspirin treatments for acne are numerous, ranging from taping a halved pill directly onto the blemish to dissolving the pills in water. A recipe described on the Doctor Oz website involves making a paste with just enough fresh lemon juice to dissolve six uncoated aspirin tablets. The process can take up to ten minutes. Afterward, the paste is applied directly to the blemish and allowed to dry. Oz recommends removing the aspirin treatment with a solution of baking soda and water to neutralize the acid.

Benefits

Lemon juice and aspirin acne treatments benefit the skin in a variety of ways. Salicylic acid exfoliates to unclog pores and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells. It also reduces swelling and redness, according to MedlinePlus, a website run by the National Institutes of Health. Furthermore, the lemon juice contains citric acid---another type of chemical exfoliant---and is a source of vitamin C, which works as an antioxidant to nourish sun-exposed skin, says Oz.

Considerations

Salicylic acid side effects include temporary irritation and stinging. If these effects become uncomfortable, immediately neutralize the aspirin treatment with baking soda water. Salicylic acid may also cause dryness and flaking. Using an SPF 15 moisturizer will combat excessive dryness while protecting treated areas from the sun, states "Acne for Dummies."