This, in turn, keeps them from building up within the pore. This means it can reduce the amount of sebum on the skin and break down the lipids that hold skin cells together, providing exfoliation. An allergist may ask for your detailed Salicylic acid is a popular choice, as it can gently dissolve dead skin cells by breaking apart the bonds that hold them together, promoting cell turnover and smooth, bright skin underneath. This ingredient occurs naturally in some plants. Prescription acne medications often combine benzoyl peroxide with an antibiotic, like Onexton (clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide), or a topical retinoid, like Epiduo (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide). Evidence shows that benzoyl peroxide is effective in improving acne. Some acne medications contain benzoyl peroxide in combination with other ingredients. Benzoyl Peroxide Vs. Salicylic Acid: Which Is Better For Acne? Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. It conforms to the formula which is depicted below (Figure 1).1 As some of the data obtained from ECHA for Benzyl Salicylate (Figure 1), have been read-across from cyclohexyl salicylate,4 the source structure is also included below (Figure 2). People using the salicylic acid product had a more significant reduction in acne compared to those using a placebo. Jamie Schneider is the Beauty & Wellness Editor at mindbodygreen. It is also on theEuropean Commissions list of 26 known allergens. It can cause skin dryness when used in excess, so talk to your dermatologist about the best concentration and frequency to abide by. Lindsey Desoto is a registered dietitian with experience working with clients to improve their diet for health-related reasons. This way you can benefit from both of these ingredients. Though it can add a pleasant fragrance to skincare products and cosmetics, it may not be worth the risk. It is a medium-risk ingredient for cosmetic and skincare use since it is linked to allergies and contact dermatitis. DermNet does not provide an online consultation service.If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice. Food allergic reactions that produce minor symptoms often resolve on their own. We Asked Dermatologists, The Right Way to Use a Lip Scrub, According to a Dermatologist, Heres How to Recycle Your Skincare Empties the Right Way. Salicylic acid is one of the oldest acne-clearing ingredients in the beauty industry. Not only does it help protect the skin from sun damage, but it also helps protect skincare products from breaking down due to exposure to UV light, which is important in products that may be in clear or transparent packaging. Related:Best acne treatmentsThe Truth About 13 Top Acne Treatment. Leave-on salicylic acid exfoliant + benzoyl peroxide spot treatmentAnother way to incorporate benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid together is to use a leave-on exfoliant with salicylic acid after washing your face. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Its an important question to ask, since the answer could help you determine which ingredient (if not both) could be better suited to help. Salicylic acid can be absorbed through the mother's skin. If thats the case for you, we encourage you to take a look at the answers to some. WebAlthough the salicylic acid vs. benzoyl peroxide discussion revolves around what your specific skin care concerns are, as a whole, salicylic acid comes out as the winner. Why? Check with your doctor if you experience: True allergy to topical salicylic acid is rare, however serious reactions including anaphylaxis have been reported. Acne: diagnosis and treatment. When using leave-on topical treatments, allow the product to dry completely before changing your shirt or getting into bed. So while benzoyl peroxide works by targeting the bacteria, this works by eliminating the oil and sebum. If you have a salicylate allergy, it's a good idea to keep antihistamines and an EpiPen on hand. How beneficial is salicylic acid for acne? As noted above, benzyl salicylate may cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Vitamin C vs. Rosehip Oil Which is Better, Retinol vs. Rosehip Oil Which is Better. When a person with an allergy comes in contact with an allergen, their immune system produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) to attack the allergen. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. [This] ultimately reduces the formation of acne. You can find salicylic acid in a wide range of skin care products, including face washes, creams, scrubs, cleansing cloths, and cleansing pads. Symptoms of a salicylate allergy may include: Severe reactions can lead to a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. Read our, Allergic to Marijuana: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment, Sulfite Allergy Overview and What to Avoid, Salicylic Acid vs. Benzoyl Peroxide For Acne, Salicylate intolerance: pathophysiology, clinical spectrum, diagnosis and treatment. When first trying a benzoyl peroxide product, I recommend starting with the lowest percentage and working your way up if needed to minimize dryness and irritation that can often occur, Dr. Schmid says. Read on to learn what salicylic acid is, how it works to treat acne, and whether it is safe and effective. Angela Palmer is a licensed esthetician specializing in acne treatment. A person with a true salicylate allergy may be advised to avoid both food and nonfood items that contain high amounts of salicylates. This article explores the differences between AHA and BHA, the conditions they treat, and how. Editors note: Acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are notoriously drying. When using salicylic acid preparations do not use any of the following preparations on the affected area, unless directed to do so by your doctor: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. This is especially problematic with higher concentrations of benzoyl peroxide.