Definition
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic beta hydroxy acid that is commonly used for the treatment of acne. Salicylic acid is derived from the bark of the willow tree, and then combined with other ingredients in lotions, creams and gels. Salicylic acid is used in different percentage strengths in both over-the-counter acne medications and prescription-strength acne treatments.
Comedones
Salicylic acid is primarily used for non-inflammatory acne, more specifically for comedones. Comedones, commonly referred to as blackheads or whiteheads, occur when sebum, a natural oil produced by the skin, combines with dead skin cells to form plugs in the pores. When the plug forms beneath the skin in the pore, it is called a whitehead. When the plug forms near the top of the skin surface in the pore, it is considered a blackhead.
Stratum Corneum
Salicylic acid also helps correct comedonal acne problems by targeting the stratum corneum. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of your skin. When applied to this layer, salicylic acid acts as a peeling agent, breaking down a protein called keratin in your skin, and loosening dead skin cells. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, the removal of this outer layer of skin allows salicylic acid, as well as any other accompanying acne medications (such as antimicrobials or topical antibiotics), to better penetrate the pores to clear up acne.
Pores
Salicylic also helps keep the pores clear of blockages, which helps prevent further outbreaks. According to the Mayo Clinic, salicylic acid has the ability to correct irregular shedding in the pores, resulting in a slower shedding of dead skin cells from the walls of the pores. The fewer loose dead skin cells there are available to mix with sebum and form plugs, the fewer comedones will occur on the skin.
