Salicylic acid – properties and use in cosmetics

beauty.jpgSalicylic acid provides conditioning properties, therefore, it can be widely used in cosmetology. It is a popular component of face cosmetics, including the ones designed for acne skin care. What other properties does salicylic acid have and what is its use in care for?

Salicylic acid – properties and use in skin care

Salicylic acid has antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is used to treat skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, lichen, psoriasis and athlete’s foot.

Salicylic acid removes excess sebum and impurities, which is why it is recommended for people with acne skin. Thanks to regular use it cleanses and narrows pores. It also is effective in the case of folliculitis.

Due to its purifying properties, salicylic acid has been used in the fight against greasy scalp and dandruff. In a higher concentration it has an exfoliating effect, i.e. it improves the appearance and structure of the skin by removing dead skin cells.

Salicylic acid stimulates the active penetration of other substances, for example vitamin A. Due to its regenerative properties, it reduces the visibility of scars. An additional advantage of salicylic acid is the fact that it is delicate, so it causes skin irritation very rarely. This means that even people with dry skin can use it.

Salicylic acid in cosmetics 

Many cosmetics designed for face care, especially for acne skin care contains salicylic acid. It is a popular component of anti-dandruff shampoos as well where it eliminates the problem of scalp and hair oiliness. Moreover, a toner based on salicylic acid that you can prepare yourself is also a very effective cosmetic. Luckily, salicylic acid is inexpensive and available online. To prepare a toner with salicylic acid, combine acid with salicylic alcohol ad acid in the following ratios: 2% salicylic acid, 18% salicylic alcohol, 80% water. After the application of the toner, wait about an hour before you use any serums or creams.