Salicylic Acid for Acne: 7 Precautions

Salicylic Acid has been used for many years for the treatment of acne and the signs of aging, but did you know that there are 7 precautions to keep in mind when using it?

• One: Avoid the Sun

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid used for the topical treatment of acne.  Use of salicylic acid can increase sensitivity to the sun.  It will make it easier to get a sunburn and may contribute to a rash caused by sensitivity.  This is particularly true when using salicylic acid as a chemical peel since they contain much higher amounts of salicylic acid.  A good sunscreen should be worn at all times and it is best to avoid direct sun exposure.  Tanning beds should also be avoided as they can cause a similar reaction.

• Two: Avoid Exfoliation

If you regularly exfoliate your skin using abrasive creams, lotions or cleansers you should discontinue use of these agents for several days prior to using a salicylic acid peel.  You should also not use any other chemical exfoliating agents or cosmetics designed to reduce the signs of aging as they may contain other types of fruit or plant acids such as alpha or beta hydroxy acids and glycolic acid which have similar activity to salicylic acid.

Using exfoliating treatments of any type may increase the chance of skin damage and excessive drying or peeling from the salicylic acid product.

• Three: Avoid drying agents

Salicylic acid is known to dry the skin, particularly when used in the concentrations required for a chemical peel.  Use of other drying agents such as alcohol should be avoided.  Topical medications such as benzoyl peroxide, Retin A and resorcinol should not be used while you are using salicylic acid for acne treatment unless you have consulted a physician.  Be aware that many cosmetics including makeup, concealers, cleansers and creams formulated for the treatment of acne may also contain salicylic acid.  You should not use these products if using salicylic acid acne peels.

• Four: Avoid the eyes, nose and mouth

Salicylic acid is a concentrated plant acid and is highly irritating to mucous membranes.  The eyes, nose and mouth should be strictly avoided.  If you get salicylic acid in these areas, flush immediately with large amounts of water.  Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after use of salicylic acid to avoid accidentally touching a sensitive skin area.

• Five: Avoid Other Salicylates

Salicylic acid can be derived from the bark of the willow tree. Medications containing forms of salicylates should be avoided when using salicylic acid.  Other salicylate medications include Aspirin, which is also known as acetyl salicylic acid, methyl salicylate used in some topical muscle creams, willowbark herbal supplements or teas, and some medications used for intestinal disorders such as crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome.

If you cannot avoid use of these medications, you should not use a salicylic acid peel unless you have consulted with a physician as there is the possibility of topical salicylic acid to be absorbed into the body.  and large levels of salicylic acid may be harmful.

• Six: Avoid If You Are Sick

Aspirin (acetyl salicylic acid) has been linked to the development of Reye’s syndrome when given to people with the flu, chicken pox or other viruses.  Topical salicylic acid use has not been linked to Reye’s syndrome but it is best to avoid using salicylic acid if you are ill.

• Seven: Avoid If You Are Pregnant

Aspirin has been linked to birth defects when used in late pregnancy.  There is little chance that enough salicylic acid will be absorbed through the skin to cause a problem but you may wish to consult with a physician before using salicylic acid topical treatments while pregnant.

Low concentration forms of salicylic acid are commonly used to treat acne.  A chemical peel using more concentrated forms of salicylic acid can improve the appearance of skin in the treatment of acne but can also reduce signs of aging or sun damage.  It is a very useful tool in the treatment of acne and skin degeneration and by following these basic precautions can lead to a positive outcome.