There are numerous active ingredients found in over-the-counter acne products, but not all of them treat persistent blemishes in the same way. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are two common agents that you may find on your acne-fighting product's label. Understanding how each helps resolve pimples and prevents new lesions from forming helps you choose which drugstore product you take to the checkout counter.
More About Acne
MayoClinic.com explains that the three factors that cause acne are excess oil production, bacteria buildup and the shedding of dead skin cells within the hair follicle. When sebum and skin cells form a clog, this prevents oil from reaching the surface of your skin. Factor in the presence of bacteria that normally resides on the skin's surface, and inflammation and infection can take place in the form of angry red pustules. Active ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide specifically target the causes of acne, reducing acne lesions. MayoClinic.com indicates that over-the-counter cleansers and topical treatments can be beneficial in treating milder cases of acne; the key to success is choosing the right products and using them appropriately.
Salicylic Acid
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration states that salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid that's most commonly used in nonprescription products. Salicylic acid has exfoliating properties, resulting in fewer clogged pores. MayoClinic.com experts note that salicylic acid is also helpful in resolving comedones such as whiteheads and blackheads. The FDA and cosmetics industry have both evaluated the safety of salicylic acid as a cosmetic ingredient; however, when using a product that contains salicylic acid, it's important to use sunscreen, says the FDA, as it results in skin that's more sensitive to the sun. Drugstore acne treatments contain concentrations of salicylic acid between 0.5 and 2 percent.
Benzoyl Peroxide
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) describes benzoyl peroxide as a "mainstay" in acne treatments. Similarly, MayoClinic.com experts state that it's one of the most effective ingredients in nonprescription products. Benzoyl peroxide works differently than salicylic acid, however, acting more as a disinfectant. It reduces the number of P. acnes bacteria on the skin that cause acne, but it also removes excess oil and dead skin cells that cause comedones to form. The AAD notes that benzoyl peroxide was one of the first active ingredients used in over-the-counter acne treatments, having been around for "decades." Acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide are available in 2.5 to 10 percent concentrations and are usually sold in the form of a lotion or gel.
Cautions
As noted earlier, salicylic acid can cause increased sensitivity to the sun, but so can benzoyl peroxide, cautions MayoClinic.com, which lists additional side effects of benzoyl peroxide as extreme dryness and flaking. Both ingredients can cause skin irritation, as well. The AAD cautions that benzoyl peroxide has the tendency to bleach clothing, towels and bedding. When applied to the chest or back, it's best to don an old shirt. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide must be used continuously to keep acne in check; lesions will crop up once treatment is discontinued.
What to Expect
Skincare expert Paula Begoun points out that an optimal skincare routine should include using products that reduce excess sebum, exfoliate the skin to improve pore function and reduce the number of P. acnes bacteria on the skin. After washing with a mild cleanser, Begoun recommends using a toner that contains salicylic acid followed by topical application of a benzoyl peroxide treatment (see Resources). MayoClinic.com experts and the AAD point out that there are other active ingredients used in acne treatments, such as a combination of sulfur and resorcinol, and alcohol and acetone. The AAD recommends that you consult with a dermatologist or your pharmacist before combining various acne treatments.
