The effect of salicylic acid
Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), effectively dissolves oil and dead skin accumulation within pores, making it ideal for oily, congested, and acne-prone skin. Due to its oil solubility, it is more effective at penetrating sebum and unclogging pores than many AHAs.
Why certain people experience a burning sensation
It’s normal to feel a slight tingle during the first few applications, but if you experience stinging or burning sensations, intense redness, or a rash, this indicates irritation. Such reactions may result from overuse, an incorrect concentration of the product, a compromised skin barrier, or chemical burns caused by leaving a high-concentration acid on your skin for too long. Should the reaction be severe (blistering, open sores, intense pain), discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Who should use salicylic acid and how
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Oily, combination, or acne-prone skin: this can be used as an all-over facial serum (just adhere to the start-slow rules below).
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For sensitive or dry skin: apply only to active blemishes or minor congested spots, rather than applying it to your whole face, as this can lead to irritation and dryness. Begin with a lower frequency/strength and combine with moisturizing care.
Recommended concentrations and frequency
Salicylic acid concentration in typical consumer serums is 0.5%–2%. Peels with stronger concentrations should be handled by professionals.
Begin with 1–3 times weekly (starting with 1–2 times/week is the safest option). Should the skin tolerate it, you can increase the frequency step by step. Avoid jumping directly to daily usage.
How to safely introduce it - step-by-step (for all skin types)
1. Initially, conduct a patch test. For 24–48 hours, put a small quantity of the product on the inner forearm or behind the ear. If there is intense redness or a burning sensation, do not use it.
2. Use a gentle cleanser to wash the skin and then dry it by dabbing.
3.Use a quantity comparable to that of a pea or adhere to the directions for use. For oily skin - apply a thin layer on congested areas. For dry skin - apply solely on targeted areas (such as pimples).
4. Allow it to absorb for about one to two minutes, and then apply a hydrating moisturizer (such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides) to safeguard the skin barrier.
5. Apply sunscreen each morning. Exfoliating acids heighten sensitivity to the sun. In the climate of the UAE, sunscreen is compulsory.
Layering and interactions between ingredients - what to avoid
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Avoid using strong acids (AHAs/BHAs) and retinol simultaneously (during the same application), as this heightens irritation. Utilize acids either during the morning/evening split or on alternate evenings.
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Exercise caution when using benzoyl peroxide, as it can cause dryness and irritation in some cases when mixed with other substances. If you utilize both, be sure to space them out (for example, use salicylic acid in the morning and benzoyl peroxide at night, or alternate nights).
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Combine with ingredients that soothe and hydrate (such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides) to alleviate dryness and sensitivity.
UAE-specific remarks (climate and lifestyle)
Due to air conditioning and heating indoors, skin can become dry - this includes oily skin, which may feel tight when its barrier is compromised; increase moisturization when applying salicylic acid.
It is essential to protect yourself from the sun, as the strength of the UAE sun throughout the year is considerable. Acids heighten sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. Daily use of SPF 30+ is recommended. (Preferably SPF 50)
Fast routines for you
For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin (for all-over application)
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Cleanser → Salicylic acid serum (start 2×/week) → Hydrating moisturizer → Sunscreen (day).
If tolerated after 4 to 6 weeks, you can increase usage to every night or every other night, depending on the strength of the product.
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For dry/sensitive skin (apply to specific areas only)
Cleanse → Use salicylic acid exclusively on the pimple (avoid applying it to the entire face) 1–3×/week → Moisturizer on the remaining areas of the face → Sunscreen (during the day).
If irritation appears, discontinue use right away and apply barrier-repair products (such as ceramides or hyaluronic acid) until the skin has settled.
Warning signs - when to consult a doctor
Blisters, open wounds, severe pain, increasing redness, or swelling, could indicate chemical burns or serious allergic reactions. Consult a dermatologist or go to an emergency facility. Aside from rinsing with water, do not try to “neutralize” acids at home.
