What Does Salicylic Acid Do for The Skin?

Salicylic acid is derived from willow bark, says cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, and it belongs to a class of ingredients called salicylates. It's structure is a little complicated, but understanding it is important to learning why (and how) it works so well.

When it comes to skin-care products, there are two classes of acids you'll see often: beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). "Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid,. This means the hydroxy part of the molecule is separated from the acid part by two carbon atoms, as opposed to an alpha hydroxy acid where they're separated by one carbon atom.This structure is important because it makes salicylic acid more oil-soluble so it can penetrate into the pores of the skin,Both alpha and beta hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin, but AHAs are water-soluble, while BHAs are oil-soluble.

Salicylic acid can get deep into your skin to do its job. This quality is precisely what makes it such a potent ingredient for targeting acne — especially for blackheads and whiteheads.

Once it penetrates the skin, salicylic acid dissolves skin debris that clogs pores, as an anti-inflammatory, and also helps red, inflamed pimples and pustules go away faster.

The ingredient can penetrate so deeply into skin that actually breaks down the connections between skin cells,Once it has penetrated the skin, the acid part of the molecule can dissolve some of the intracellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together.