Salicylic acid chemical peels are well tolerated by most people and excellent for improving skin tone, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles and removing whiteheads and blackheads. Salicylic acid is an effective exfoliating agent and can improve the appearance of skin that is affected by acne.

Salicylic acid is known as a beta hydroxy acid which also includes trethocanic acid, tropic acid and beta hydroxybutanoic acid. These are all synthetically made, unlike alpha hydroxy acids which are extracted from plants and fruits. Salicylic acid itself is synthesized in the lab from the bark off the willow tree and is similar in chemical formula to the well-known aspirin which is acetylsalicylic acid.

Salicylic acid is used in two ways, as an exfoliating or anti-acne cream and as a chemical peel. When it is used for the former purpose, concentrations of lower than 5% are used. For chemical peels concentrations are higher and usually between 20% and 30%.

How Do Salicylic Acid Chemical Peels Work?

Both alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acid peels work by breaking the bonds that hold dead skin cells in place. This allows the cells to be easily removed leaving behind healthier, newer looking skin. One advantage of salicylic acid peels is that the anti-inflammatory properties of salicylic acid helps to prevent problems such as irritation occurring after the treatment. In addition salicylic acid, unlike alpha hydroxy acids are soluble in lipids (fats and oils) so these types of chemical peels are more effective if you have an oily skin. They can penetrate oily skin better to clean the pores more effectively and remove dirt, dust and any accumulated sebum. This makes them especially effective for people who suffer from acne.

Salicylic acid chemical peels are also a better choice for people with sensitive skin than alpha hydroxy peels such as glycolic acid. However their use should be supervised by a trained professional as beta hydroxy acids are poisonous if they are inhaled.

What to Expect During and After a Salicylic Acid Peel

Before the peel solution is applied the skin is prepared by thoroughly cleaning. The acid solution is applied to the skin and left for between 10 and 15 minutes. After it is removed cold compresses or a mild cream or lotion may be applied to help ease any irritation. Your skin may be slightly red and flaky after the procedure. The top layer of the skin will gradually fall off over the next few days allowing new skin to appear. It is important to use sunscreen after a chemical peel as exposure to the sun can cause further irritation and side effects. Smoking is also discouraged for the same reasons. You will be given instructions on how to care for your skin following the chemical peel by your dermatologist or beauty salon.

Cost of Chemical Peels

One treatment of a chemical peel may cost as much as $100 and you will need at least two or three treatments to make a noticeable difference to your skin.

Other Uses Of Salicylic Acid

As well as chemical peels salicylic acid is used for a wide variety of cosmetic including anti-aging creams, moisturizers, exfoliating agents and foundations.