Understanding the Role of Salicylic Acid in Acne Control

Skin Cancer and Dermatology Center is led by Dr. Brett Matheson and Dr. Christopher Satori, who fully understand various treatment techniques for many issues. For example, they can treat acne in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Trinidad, CO, using salicylic acid to reduce outbreaks and symptoms.

What Is It?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that can exfoliate the skin, keep the pores clean, and break apart buildups throughout the face. It’s often available in over-the-counter (OTC) products, though we can also provide prescriptions for stronger options. We typically use it for mild pimple problems, such as blackheads, and to keep the skin clear to avoid breakouts in the future.

How Does It Work?

So, what exactly causes pimples and other types of outbreaks? Clogged skin pores. For example, plugged hair follicles can trigger blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. They usually get clogged with dead skin cells, oils, and other debris.

Salicylic acid works by dissolving these blockages and helping to clear your skin. Usually, it takes several weeks for this acid to go into effect, but when it does, your face should be clear and free of frustrating breakouts.

What Techniques Do You Use?

At Skin Cancer and Dermatology Center, Dr. Matheson and Dr. Satori can use salicylic acid in several forms. These vary based on the acne issues they treat in Colorado Springs, Pueblo & Trinidad, CO, and can help restore your skin in many ways. They include:

• Gel: Gels contain 2-7% salicylic acid and must be used once a day to clean the face. 
• Lotions: Typically, lotions have 2% salicylic acid and are used 1-3 times daily. 
• Ointment: You can use ointments as needed with a stronger 3% concentration.
• Pads, Soaps, and Solutions: These usually have 0.5-3% concentrations and are used daily

Are There Side Effects?

Salicylic acid is very safe because it’s not strong enough to cause serious skin damage. That said, initial treatment or overuse might come with some slight irritation to the skin that could take a few days to overcome. Other potential side effects include things like:

• Too much oil production that produces dryness and irritation
• Skin tingling or stinging that makes your face uncomfortable
• Itching at the application site also feels very annoying
• Peeling skin throughout the application site
• Potential hive outbreaks (allergic reaction)

Who Should You Call?

Skin Cancer and Dermatology Center, with Dr. Matheson and Dr. Satori, can use salicylic acid to help manage your acne problems in Colorado Springs, Pueblo & Trinidad, CO. Don’t hesitate to call us at Colorado Springs at (719) 574-0310, Pueblo at (719) 564-5544, or Trinidad at (800) 290-2478.