Salicylic Acid Peel

Salicylic acid is a chemical peel that is often used for treating acne and blemishes. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that has been used in various forms for thousands of years as it is derived from plant sources. When used in a chemical peel, it helps clear out pores, reduce inflammation, decrease oil production, and decrease the appearance of mild to moderate hyperpigmentation.

What is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that has both anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Salicylic acid is oil soluble and penetrates deeper into the skin than the alpha hydroxy acids. Oil-soluble skincare ingredients tend to penetrate the lipid layers of the skin more easily. This is why salicylic acid is often used to unclog pores – for example in clearing blackheads. This ingredient is actually naturally found in willow bark and wintergreen leaves.

Uses for SA Peels

These peels can be used to treat:

• Acne
• Melasma
• Freckles
• Sunspots

Side Effects and After Care for Peels

Salicylic acid peels are well tolerated and the side effects are typical for any superficial to medium depth chemical peel. Redness, swelling, peeling, stinging, and burning are to be expected. In most cases, the healing process will be complete within 7-14 days and you will then be able to see the results of the peel. Several peels are required to get the best results and many patients get them on a regular basis with breaks in between to manage their skin conditions.

It is important to avoid UV radiation from the sun both before and after the peel. This is especially important during the healing process. Sun protection includes using a broad spectrum sunscreen as well as protecting the face with a hat.

Articles

Efficacy and Safety of 25% Trichloroacetic Acid Peel Versus 30% Salicylic Acid Peel in Mild-to-Moderate Acne Vulgaris: A Comparative Study – Dermatology Practical & Conceptual

Treatment of Acne Vulgaris With Salicylic Acid Chemical Peel and Pulsed Dye Laser: A Split Face, Rater-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial – Journal of Lasers in Medical Science