Salicylic Acid Vs. Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne Prone Skin

Almost every person faces some sort of skin problem in their lifetime, with the most common condition being acne. Acne can, for some people, be incredibly difficult to get rid of despite trying a variety of products, and it can strike at any age.

The main mistake that most acne sufferers make is to choose products that are too harsh for their skin and can actually make their condition worse.

About acne prone skin

Very often, people with acne also have very sensitive skin. Acne can cause open sores and dry, red skin that can be easily irritated by the wrong products. By using products that contain harsh ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, which work by drying out the skin, the only result will be even dryer, more painful skin that can actually result in scarring.

Benzoyl peroxide for acne

Benzoyl peroxide, which many people use on their skin to get rid of pimples, is the worst culprit. This powerful chemical works fantastically if you have oily or normal skin with only a couple of pimples - but as soon as you put it over already damaged skin, the results are rarely positive.

There is a place for benzoyl peroxide in the reduction of pimples, though. Some people can tolerate it very well. If you can tolerate it and it doesn't cause negative side effects, then it is a highy effective product. However, those with severe acne who have had negative outcomes from using benzoyl peroxide should try salicylic acid - a much gentler solution.

Salicylic acid for acne

When looking for the best face wash for acne, you should focus on products that contain around 2% of salicylic acid. This relatively low level of the acne-fighting chemical is the perfect amount to clear pimples without drying out the skin.

Salicylic acid works by exfoliating the skin and minimizing inflammation, which is one of the major side effects of acne. Unlike other ingredients in pimple creams, salicylic acid does not cause the skin to go temporarily red or inflammed. It has a soothing effect on the skin.

In fact, the chemical make-up of salicylic acid is very similar to another highly effective anti-inflammatory -- aspirin.