Acne vulgaris, otherwise known as pimples or zits, can be painful during the teenage years. When it continues into adulthood, it can be downright traumatic. For some, acne causes scars that forever mark the skin; many people seek relief in the form of chemical treatments like salicylic acid, which effectively fights acne scars. While it has some dangers, salicylic acid is a generally safe treatment that is frequently prescribed by doctors.
Function
Salicylic acid is an organic beta hydroxy acid, extracted from the bark of the willow tree. It provides pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits by penetrating the pores of the skin, softening and removing clogs and restoring skin structure. It also has antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial qualities, reducing infection and swelling of pimples. In higher doses, it causes keratolysis, or skin peeling. Salicylic acid is often prescribed for topical acne treatment and is also used to treat scars from acne.
Types of Treatments
Salicylic acid is available in over-the-counter treatments, usually as a cream to be applied directly to affected areas. As a topical cream, it also helps to prevent the onset of acne-related infections. In shampoos and cleansers, salicylic acid fights ingrown hairs and infected follicles; it is also effective against warts. Prescription-strength salicylic acid is used in medical treatments, particularly to address scarring and improve skin exfoliation. In these "chemical peels," acid is applied to the face, lifting the topmost layer of the skin and removing imperfections.
Chemical Peels
If you have acne scars from past breakouts, you might be considering chemical peels as a remedy. According to the International Rosacea Foundation, doctors usually begin by applying glycolic acid, using salicylic acid only in cases of deep scarring. Salicylic acid penetrates deeper into the skin, improving acne's appearance, but causing damage to your skin. If you have darker skin, salicylic acid peels can cause your skin to lighten and freckle; however, it will improve scarring and is considered safe, as noted in a January 1999 article in the journal "Dermatologic Surgery."
Scar Prevention
Chemical peels are an extreme solution, but salicylic acid can do plenty to prevent scarring in the first place. Many people make their acne worse by picking at it, introducing bacteria that cause infection. Once your skin is infected, it's more likely to produce a scar. Salicylic acid applied to pimples can fight bacteria and other infecting agents, keeping scars from forming in the first place. For most people, preventive use of a treatment like salicylic acid can improve skin in years to come.
Dangers
Salicylic acid is a caustic substance, and can be harmful. If you have sensitive skin, consult a doctor before using a salicylic acid treatment, even one that's sold over-the-counter. It's always a good idea to test the treatment on a small section of your skin before applying it to your face. In addition to lightening the skin, especially when used as a chemical peel, salicylic acid can also cause redness, dryness and photosensitivity.
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