How to Use Salicylic Acid for Acne Treatment

Jude Herrera, International Trainer at Eminence Organic Skin Care, stopped by the Dermstore offices to talk about salicylic acid and how it’s a key ingredient that can be used to target moderate-to-severe acne.

Dermstore: So let's start at the beginning. What is salicylic acid?

Jude Herrera: First of all, what is salicylic acid? It’s a type of beta-hydroxy acid (or BHA) which is one of the most effective ingredients for treating and preventing acne. It tackles breakouts by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, as well as cleaning out blackheads and preventing congestion. Salicylic acid goes straight into the pores and dissolves excess buildup that can lead to breakouts and problem skin.

D: How is the salicylic acid in the Acne Advanced Collection different?

JH: Eminence Organics uses a certain type of salicylic acid in its new Acne Advanced Collection, one that uses a time-release encapsulated delivery system. The encapsulation helps the salicylic acid deposit evenly all over the skin. And the time-release factor allows it to slowly exfoliate the skin over time, making sure that the look of irritation is kept to a minimum.

D: What products are in the Acne Advanced Collection?

JH: You’ll find encapsulated salicylic acid in our Acne Advanced Treatment System—three steps that include the Acne Advanced Cleansing Foam, Clarifying Masque and Clarifying Hydrator. The cleansing foam is a unique liquid-to-foam cleanser that prevents acne breakouts and clears blocked pores. Our Acne Advanced Clarifying Masque is a two-in-one mask and spot treatment that uses salicylic acid and purifying clays to treat active acne, eliminate oil and reduce shine. Finally, our Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator is an ultra-lightweight mattifying lotion that reduces the appearance of oily skin, leaving a soft finish.