Benzoyl Peroxide vs. Salicylic Acid
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are the top two active ingredients
that you will find in any OTC acne medication. In my opinion, they are both
effective in treating acne, but there are certain times in which I prefer to
use one over the other.
SO, WHAT DO THEY ACTUALLY
DO?
Benzoyl Peroxide:
reduces acne causing bacteria, oxidizes pores to
loosen dirt and oil buildup and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Salicylic Acid:
dissolves keratin and the layer of skin that clogs the sebaceous gland.
MY EXPERIENCE AND USE
OF BOTH
I prefer to use benzoyl peroxide (BP) during the warmer
months of the year. It is a bit drying, but I find it is beneficial during the
hot and sweaty spring/summer months. It works more like a mattifier if I apply it
when my face is slightly damp from cleansing or toning. It also pairs well with
my sunscreen. I only use it 1-2 times a day so I don’t
experience any peeling or irritation. I find that BP is most effective in reducing
pimple size at whatever state that it is in. The brand that I use is 
I prefer to use salicylic acid (SA) during the cooler months
when my skin is a bit drier. The kind that I use comes in a gel form and it
dries clear so there is generally no residue left behind. The brand that I use is Clean & Clear Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment, 0.75 oz.
When I do use SA, I
apply it at night because it does not pair well with sunscreen. It tends to
flake up when I combine the two.
When I do use SA, I
apply it at night because it does not pair well with sunscreen. It tends to
flake up when I combine the two.
The only time when I DO NOT use SA is when I have an open pimple.
I have found that it burns the skin around the perimeter of the pimple, which
has already been compromised, and creates an even worse scar. For women of
color (WOC) with hyper-pigmentation this can be a two headed monster.
LONG STORY MADE SHORT
·
BP can be used throughout the entire life cycle
of a pimple (active/healing). SA can be used to prevent pimples, but not when
you have broken skin due to an open, active pimple.
·
BP pairs well with sunscreen, SA does not.
·
BP can be drying, but SA (gel/serum form) is
less drying.
I hope this was helpful! I’ve included some links to the
actual products that I use to make things easy for you guys.
Bye Beauties,
xoxo ChrissyXtina xoxo
For the Lord taketh
pleasure in his people: He will beautify the meek with salvation.
Psalm 149:4
Source: Livestrong
Comments
Post a Comment