What is salicylic acid?

It's a favourite with leading facialists,

 but should we be using salicylic -acid products at home?

Derived from the bark of the willow-tree, salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid. "Beta hydroxy acids have a larger molecule than their cousin, alpha hydroxy acids, This allows it to be more effectively penetrate and exfoliate within the pore, making salicylic an ideal exfoliant for use on acne-prone skin. The larger molecule size of salicylic acid also produces less irritation than alpha hydroxy acids, making it a welcome alternative for those with sensitive skin."

Kaya Skin Clinic

What are its benefits above other acids?

"As well as its efficacy at clearing blockages, salicylic has a fantastic anti-inflammatory action in the skin, I see excellent results from using it to treat rosacea, it really calms down redness and flare ups. An additional boon for sensitive skins is that 'salicylic acid is not a photo sensitizer. Some exfoliators can make your skin a bit more sensitive to sunlight, but salicylic acid will not.

How often should you use salicylic products?

Depending on their strength, it can be use daily for the period of 2 weeks, and then stop to avoid over drying out  the skin. 'The unique salicylic-acid delivery system in our Turnaround range combines fast and slow release molecules, to result in softer, smoother, more radiant skin without irritation.

St. Ives Green Tea Scrub