What does salicylic acid do for your skin. How does salicylic acid penetrate the skin. Why is salicylic acid effective for acne. What are the differences between salicylic acid and AHAs. How does salicylic acid exfoliate the skin. When should you use salicylic acid for skincare.

The Power of Salicylic Acid: A Deep-Diving Skincare Ingredient

Salicylic acid has earned its place as a staple in many skincare routines, particularly for those battling acne and oily skin. But what makes this beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) so effective? Let’s delve into the science behind this powerhouse ingredient and explore its numerous benefits for the skin.

Oil-Soluble Nature: The Key to Deep Penetration

One of the most significant advantages of salicylic acid lies in its oil-soluble nature. Dr. Shah, a renowned dermatologist, explains, “Generally, oil-soluble ingredients penetrate through the lipid layers between the skin cells more readily.” This unique property allows salicylic acid to reach deeper layers of the skin, where it can effectively target the root causes of various skin concerns.

Salicylic Acid vs. AHAs: Understanding the Difference

While both salicylic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are exfoliants, they work in distinctly different ways. Robinson, a skincare expert, clarifies: “AHAs work well on the skin’s surface to loosen old, dead skin and reveal fresh newer skin. Salicylic acid works deeper [and is] able to penetrate into the pores to unclog them.”

• AHAs: Surface-level exfoliation, ideal for overall skin renewal
• Salicylic Acid: Deep pore penetration, excellent for treating acne and unclogging pores

The Multi-Faceted Benefits of Salicylic Acid for Skin

Salicylic acid’s ability to penetrate deeply into the skin allows it to perform several crucial functions:

1. Dissolves skin debris that clogs pores
2. Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent
3. Helps reduce redness and inflammation of pimples and pustules
4. Promotes faster healing of acne lesions

Dr. Naissan O. Wesley, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, emphasizes these benefits, stating that salicylic acid “dissolves skin debris that clogs pores, [acts] as an anti-inflammatory and also helps red inflamed pimples and pustules go away faster.”

Breaking Down Cellular Connections

Salicylic acid’s effectiveness goes beyond surface-level treatment. Schueller and Dr. Wesley explain that once it penetrates the skin, “the acid part of the molecule can dissolve some of the intracellular ‘glue’ that holds skin cells together.” This process of breaking down cellular connections is crucial for its exfoliating properties and its ability to unclog pores effectively.

Salicylic Acid as a Powerful Exfoliant

The exfoliating properties of salicylic acid are one of its most celebrated benefits. As a keratolytic medication, it excels at promoting skin cell turnover and sloughing off dead skin cells.

What is a Keratolytic Medication?

Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, explains, “Keratolytic medications cause softening and sloughing of the top layer of skin cells.” This property makes salicylic acid particularly effective for treating various skin concerns, including acne, rough texture, and dull complexion.

Desmolytic Action: Enhancing Exfoliation

Dr. Sue Ann Wee, another board-certified dermatologist in New York City, highlights another crucial aspect of salicylic acid’s exfoliating action: “This ‘desmolytic’ action encourages exfoliation of skin and unclogging of pores.” By loosening and breaking apart desmosomes (attachments between cells in the outer layer of skin), salicylic acid facilitates a more thorough and effective exfoliation process.

Salicylic Acid: A Targeted Approach to Acne Treatment

When it comes to acne treatment, salicylic acid shines brightest in addressing blackheads and whiteheads. But why is it so effective for these specific types of acne lesions?

Understanding Acne Formation

Dr. Nazarian provides insight into the etiology of acne: “One thought etiology of acne is that the skin cells do not behave normally, and rather than sloughing off through a healthy skin cell cycle, they stick together and clog the pores, creating cysts and blackheads.” Salicylic acid directly addresses this issue by aiding in removing and loosening these skin cells and helping to dissolve blackheads.

Targeting Multiple Acne Factors

Schueller identifies three main factors contributing to acne:

1. Abnormal sloughing off of skin cells
2. Excessive oiliness
3. Action of P. acnes bacteria

Salicylic acid primarily addresses the first factor by dissolving the type of skin debris that clogs pores and causes acne. This targeted action makes it particularly effective for treating and preventing blackheads and whiteheads.

Incorporating Salicylic Acid into Your Skincare Routine

Given its potent properties, how should one incorporate salicylic acid into their skincare regimen? Here are some guidelines to ensure you’re using this powerful ingredient effectively and safely:

Frequency of Use

For most skin types, using products containing salicylic acid once or twice daily is sufficient. However, those with sensitive skin may want to start with less frequent applications and gradually increase as tolerated.

Concentration Matters

Over-the-counter products typically contain salicylic acid in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2%. For daily use, lower concentrations (0.5% to 1%) are generally suitable for most skin types. Higher concentrations may be more effective for spot treatments but should be used with caution to avoid irritation.

Complementary Ingredients

Salicylic acid can be paired with other skincare ingredients to enhance its effects. For example:

• Niacinamide: Can help reduce potential irritation and support the skin barrier
• Hyaluronic Acid: Provides hydration to counteract any drying effects
• Green Tea Extract: Offers additional anti-inflammatory benefits

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While salicylic acid is generally well-tolerated, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions:

Common Side Effects

• Mild skin irritation
• Dryness or peeling
• Slight redness

These effects are usually temporary and subside as your skin adjusts to the product. If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Precautions

Certain individuals should exercise caution when using salicylic acid:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before use
• Those with aspirin allergies may be sensitive to salicylic acid
• Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin should start with lower concentrations and less frequent applications

Beyond Acne: Other Skin Concerns Addressed by Salicylic Acid

While salicylic acid is primarily known for its acne-fighting properties, its benefits extend to other skin concerns as well:

Hyperpigmentation

The exfoliating properties of salicylic acid can help fade dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by promoting cell turnover and removing pigmented dead skin cells.

Texture Improvement

Regular use of salicylic acid can lead to smoother, more refined skin texture by promoting exfoliation and unclogging pores.

Oil Control

For those with oily skin, salicylic acid can help regulate sebum production, leading to a less shiny complexion and reduced risk of clogged pores.

Psoriasis Management

In higher concentrations and under medical supervision, salicylic acid can be used to manage psoriasis symptoms by helping to remove scales and reduce inflammation.

The Science of Salicylic Acid: A Closer Look at Its Mechanism of Action

To truly appreciate the effectiveness of salicylic acid, it’s worth delving deeper into its molecular structure and how it interacts with the skin:

Chemical Structure

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark. Its chemical structure consists of a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group and a carboxylic acid group. This unique structure is what allows it to be oil-soluble and penetrate deep into the pores.

pH-Dependent Efficacy

The effectiveness of salicylic acid is pH-dependent. It works best at a pH of 3-4, which is why many products containing salicylic acid are formulated within this range. At this pH, the acid is mostly in its free acid form, allowing it to penetrate the skin more effectively.

Lipophilic Nature

The lipophilic (oil-loving) nature of salicylic acid allows it to mix with and dissolve sebum, the oily substance that can clog pores. This property is crucial for its ability to penetrate deep into pores and break down the debris that leads to acne formation.

Salicylic Acid in Professional Treatments

While over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid are widely available, professional treatments can offer more intense and targeted results:

Chemical Peels

Salicylic acid peels, typically ranging from 20% to 30% concentration, can provide more dramatic exfoliation and pore-cleansing effects. These treatments are performed by skincare professionals and can be particularly beneficial for those with stubborn acne or significant texture concerns.

Combination Therapies

In professional settings, salicylic acid is often combined with other active ingredients to enhance its effects. For example:

• Salicylic acid + Glycolic acid: Combines the pore-penetrating abilities of salicylic acid with the surface-exfoliating properties of glycolic acid
• Salicylic acid + Mandelic acid: Offers a gentler approach for sensitive skin types while still providing effective exfoliation and acne-fighting benefits

Salicylic Acid vs. Other Acne-Fighting Ingredients

While salicylic acid is a powerhouse for acne treatment, it’s not the only player in the game. Let’s compare it to other popular acne-fighting ingredients:

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is known for its ability to kill acne-causing bacteria. Unlike salicylic acid, it doesn’t exfoliate the skin but works by introducing oxygen into the pore, creating an environment inhospitable to P. acnes bacteria.

Retinoids

Retinoids, such as tretinoin and adapalene, work by increasing cell turnover and reducing inflammation. They can be more effective for cystic acne and have additional anti-aging benefits but may cause more initial irritation than salicylic acid.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s particularly effective for treating rosacea and can also help with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Unlike salicylic acid, it doesn’t exfoliate the skin as deeply.

Each of these ingredients has its strengths, and in many cases, they can be used in combination with salicylic acid for enhanced results. However, it’s essential to introduce new active ingredients gradually and under the guidance of a skincare professional to avoid over-exfoliation or irritation.

Future Developments in Salicylic Acid Research

As our understanding of skin biology and chemistry evolves, so does the potential for new and improved applications of salicylic acid in skincare:

Delivery Systems

Researchers are exploring novel delivery systems to enhance the penetration and efficacy of salicylic acid while minimizing potential irritation. Microencapsulation and liposomal delivery are among the technologies being investigated.

Synergistic Formulations

The development of new formulations that combine salicylic acid with complementary ingredients is an area of ongoing research. These formulations aim to enhance the overall efficacy of skincare products while addressing multiple skin concerns simultaneously.

Personalized Skincare

As the trend towards personalized skincare grows, we may see more tailored applications of salicylic acid based on individual skin types, concerns, and genetic profiles. This could lead to more effective and targeted treatments for various skin conditions.

The future of salicylic acid in skincare looks promising, with potential for even more refined and effective applications of this versatile ingredient.

Practical Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Salicylic Acid

To get the most out of your salicylic acid products, consider the following tips:

Start Slow

If you’re new to salicylic acid, begin with a lower concentration and less frequent application. This allows your skin to acclimate and reduces the risk of irritation.

Be Patient

Like many skincare ingredients, salicylic acid requires consistent use over time to show significant results. Give it at least 4-6 weeks of regular use before evaluating its effectiveness.

Don’t Overdo It

More is not always better when it comes to exfoliating acids. Overuse can lead to irritation, dryness, and even damage to the skin barrier. Stick to the recommended usage guidelines for your specific product.

Sun Protection is Crucial

Salicylic acid can increase skin sensitivity to UV rays. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when using products containing salicylic acid, especially during daytime hours.

Hydration is Key

To counteract any potential drying effects, ensure you’re using a good moisturizer alongside your salicylic acid products. Look for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores.

By following these guidelines, you can harness the full potential of salicylic acid while minimizing the risk of adverse effects, leading to clearer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin.

What Does Salicylic Acid Do For Your Skin, Exactly? — Expert Advice

“Generally, oil-soluble ingredients penetrate through the lipid layers between the skin cells more readily,” Dr. Shah explains. In other words, oil-soluble ingredients can penetrate the skin at a deeper level than their water-soluble counterparts.

Robinson sums up their differences succinctly. “AHAs work well on the skin’s surface to loosen old, dead skin and reveal fresh newer skin,” he says. “Salicylic acid works deeper [and is] able to penetrate into the pores to unclog them.”

What does salicylic acid do for the skin?

What all of this means is that salicylic acid can get deep into your skin to do its job. This quality is precisely what makes salicylic acid 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, [acts] as an anti-inflammatory and also helps red inflamed pimples and pustules go away faster,” explains Naissan O. Wesley, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.

The ingredient can penetrate so deeply into skin that actually breaks down the connections between skin cells, according to Schueller and Dr. Wesley. “Once it has penetrated the skin, the acid part of the molecule can dissolve some of the intracellular ‘glue’ that holds skin cells together,” says Schueller.

Salicylic acid is also an exfoliant

This breaking down of skin cells also promotes exfoliation. Salicylic acid is considered a keratolytic medication, which means that it’s perfect for supreme exfoliation. “Keratolytic medications cause softening and sloughing of the top layer of skin cells,” says Rachel Nazarian, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

Salicylic acid also loosens and breaks apart desmosomes (attachments between cells in the outer layer of skin). “This ‘desmolytic’ action encourages exfoliation of skin and unclogging of pores,” says Sue Ann Wee, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

“One thought etiology of acne is that the skin cells do not behave normally, and rather than sloughing off through a healthy skin cell cycle, they stick together and clog the pores, creating cysts and blackheads,” says Dr. Nazarian. “Salicylic acid aids in removing and loosening these skin cells and helps to dissolve the blackheads.”

Salicylic acid works best on blackheads and whiteheads

Schueller says there are three factors that contribute to acne: an abnormal sloughing off of skin cells, excessive oiliness, and the action of P. acnes bacteria. “Salicylic acid helps with the first cause by dissolving the type of skin debris that clogs pores and causes acne,” he says.

What to Do and When to See a Doctor

Boils are painful, swollen bumps under the skin that are red in color and may feel warm to the touch. They often look like large pimples, but they’re actually the result of an infected hair follicle. Boils fill with pus and can range from uncomfortable to very painful.

Boils are common skin infections that typically occur in places on the body with hair or where rubbing can occur. Usually, they form in places that can get sweaty, such as the face, neck, armpits, breasts, groin, and buttocks. One single hair follicle can get infected, or a group of them can get infected, which is called a carbuncle.

There are some common symptoms to look out for if you think you have a boil. While boils are large and red, usually a yellow or white tip appears where the pus will eventually drain out. The boil usually grows over time as it fills with pus. You may also experience a fever with a large boil as your body fights off the infection.

Remedies and Treatments for Boils

There are several remedies for boils that can help you treat them at home without medical attention. It’s important that you don’t pick at the boil or try to pop it yourself. The boil may drain on its own, which is important in the healing process. Don’t try to speed things up by doing it yourself.

Since a boil is a skin infection, it’s possible you could pass it on to other people. To avoid this, you shouldn’t go to public swimming pools or gyms until your boil has cleared up.

Apply Warm Compresses

The first thing you should do to help get rid of boils is apply a warm compress. Soak a washcloth in warm water and then press it gently against the boil for about 10 minutes. You can repeat this several times throughout the day.

Use a Heating Pad

Just like with a warm compress, using a heating pad can help the boil start to drain. You can put a heating pad over a damp towel and lay it on the affected area. It may take up to a week for the boil to start opening up and draining the pus. Keep applying heat, either with a heating pad or compress, for up to three days after the boil opens.

Keep It Clean

As with any infection, you want to keep the area clean. Use antibacterial soap and warm water to wash the boil twice daily, and then gently pat the area dry. It’s a good idea to keep the towels and washcloths that come in contact with the boil separate from other towels.

Use a Cover or Bandage

To help the boil heal faster, you should try to keep it covered. After you wash the boil and the area around it, apply a clean dressing to keep it covered and protected. You can use a bandage or gauze.

Practice Good Hygiene

One of the keys to treating a boil is to practice good hygiene. After touching the boil or surrounding area, make sure you thoroughly wash your hands to prevent spreading the infection to other parts of your body — or passing it to another person. Also, you should have a bath or a shower daily to keep your skin clean and prevent the spread of infection.

Wash Your Linens

The key to treating boils at home is cleanliness. To help lower the risk of further infection, wash your bedding, clothing, and towels at least once a week at a high temperature to kill off bacteria. Do not share your towels with anyone else while you have a boil.

Take Pain Reducer

If you’re in a lot of pain because of your boil, you can take ibuprofen or paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen. These can also help lower your fever if your boil is causing one.

When to See a Doctor

While treating a boil at home and being patient is usually enough, there are some situations in which you may want to seek medical attention.

Typically, home remedies for boils help to speed up the healing process or alleviate the discomfort they cause. It’s important to remember that boils need one or two weeks to heal. If your boil still doesn’t go away after this time, you should make an appointment with your doctor.

You should also see your doctor if you’ve tried home remedies to get rid of boils and they reoccur. If more boils appear, the skin around the boil is hot and painful, or if you have a recurring fever, you may need medical assistance.

A doctor can make an incision to carefully drain the boil of the pus inside. If the infection is too deep to drain completely, your doctor may pack it with gauze to soak up the remaining pus. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics if you have recurring boils.

How to Use Salicylic Acid on Acne, Blackheads, and Skin in 2021

Lemme let you in on a little secret: I’ve done a lot of crazy sh*t to my skin in hopes of destroying my acne. Like, even though I’m an ~educated~ beauty editor, I’d be lying if I said I haven’t gone to town on my blackheads and zits before. But as much as I want to ignore common sense and pick my skin to no avail, I’ve learned that the smartest way to treat acne is by (a) being patient and (b) using the right products. My personal fave? Anything with salicylic acid, which, IMHO, has singlehandedly transformed my skin.

Ask any derm and they’ll tell you: Salicylic acid is a tried-and-true ingredient for getting rid of blackheads, whiteheads, and excess oil—and keeping them gone. So if you’re ready to graduate from picking and popping your zits to using an ingredient that actually works, keep reading for everything you should know about using salicylic acid on your skin.

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What does salicylic acid do to your skin?

Imaxtree

Excuse me while I get a little ~scientific~, but before you start slathering salicylic acid all over your acne, you gotta know what it is. First, a refresher: There are two types of chemical exfoliants—alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), both of which gently dissolve the “glue” that binds your dead skin cells, leaving you with softer, brighter, smoother skin.

Salicylic acid (which, fun fact, is derived from willow trees) is the main BHA used in skincare, and thanks to its ability to dissolve in oil, it’s basically the gold standard for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and oily skin. “Because salicylic acid is an anti-inflammatory ingredient, it also decreases the redness and irritation that comes with red, tender pimples,” says Rachel Nazarian, MD, of Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC. “And since it breaks the bonds between the skin cells, it also gently exfoliates your skin to help prevent the formation of acne.”

Is benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid better?

It depends on the pimple you’re dealing with. While salicylic acid does an excellent job of treating whiteheads and blackheads by dissolving dead skin and unclogging pores, benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria that leads to those swollen, red, pus-filled pimples.

Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can be used in tandem, but they can also irritate the hell out of sensitive skin, so try using them on alternate nights or using salicylic acid in the morning and benzoyl peroxide at night. Still, if blackheads and whiteheads are your main concern, you should def consider trying a salicylic acid cleanser, serum, spot treatment, or toner (more isn’t merrier—you’ll irritate your face and cause more breakouts). These are a few of my personal faves to get you started:

best mask

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

best cleanser

Vichy Normaderm Deep Cleansing Gel Face Wash

best exfoliator

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator

best spot treatment

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

Is it okay to use salicylic acid every day?

Imaxtree

Even though it’s tempting to load up on salicylic acid 24/7, Dr. Nazarian doesn’t recommend it. As with any chemical exfoliant, you should plan on easing salicylic acid into your routine (think: once every three days until you know your skin can handle it). “People who have naturally dry skin or sensitive conditions like rosacea and eczema should proceed with caution and under the guidance of their dermatologist,” she adds.

How long does it take for salicylic acid to work?

Here’s the not-so-great thing about salicylic acid: It takes a minute to see it work. “You’ll likely see results in four to six weeks,” says Dr. Nazarian, “after which you should continue to use it for long-term effects.” That means you shouldn’t expect any miracles overnight—good skin requires patience, y’all. If you want to give salicylic acid a fair shot, stick with it for at least a month until you start thinking next steps. And as always, don’t forget to chat with your derm about what’s best for you and your skin (what works for your roommate or, like, Amazon reviewers might not necessarily be the best treatment for you).

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Can salicylic acid remove scars?

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You know those dark spots and acne scars that linger long after your zit has disappeared? Yeah, salicylic acid can help with that. “Salicylic acid has the ability to break up old skin cells and encourage new skin cells to form, which, in turn, helps lighten dark spots and marks left by old pimples,” says Dr. Nazarian. And thanks to the anti-inflammatory abilities of salicylic acid, regular use can also help prevent those dark marks from happening in the first place (which, like, score).

Final thoughts

If you’re looking to clear up blackheads and whiteheads, you should absolutely try working salicylic acid into your skincare routine (my skin is proof). Remember: Start low and slow—i.e., don’t slather it on every day—to avoid any irritation or dryness, consult your dermatologist if you have rosacea or eczema, and expect to see results in a month or so. Sounds like a lot, but trust me: Salicylic acid is an acne game changer that’s worth the effort.

We just launched a newsletter that’s alllll about acne. Each week, we’ll hit up your inbox with everything from the zit products that actually work to the best breakout tips and tricks from derms. Do your skin a favor and sign up, k? SUBSCRIBE!

Ruby Buddemeyer
Ruby was the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covered beauty across print and digital.

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How to Identify and Treat Acne and Sebaceous Cysts

Acne is a condition that affects millions of people around the world, but identifying it can be tricky. In some cases, you may have a sebaceous cyst that you’re mistaking for a pimple. But how do you identify and treat acne and sebaceous cysts? Here are a few important tips.

Identifying Acne

Acne typically occurs when oil and dead skin cells get trapped in pores and hair follicles. There are also certain kinds of bacteria that may contribute to the development of acne. It can appear almost anywhere on the body. Some of the most common areas you’ll find acne include the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders. Fortunately, identifying acne symptoms is relatively simple. The most common effects of this skin disorder typically include whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pimples (pustules), and nodules. Pimples are one of the most easily identifiable symptoms of acne because of their appearance. These pustules appear as small red or white spots on the skin. This is the result of the pus at the tip of the pustule, and they can occur anywhere on the face. Blackheads may occur more often on the nose and forehead. There are varying degrees of this condition– some people may experience small breakouts, while others may suffer from painful nodules under the skin. Most cases of acne are visually diagnosed based on the symptoms listed above.

Identifying Sebaceous Cysts

Unlike the pimples that typically occur with acne, sebaceous cysts are formed when keratin fluid is trapped near a damaged hair follicle or a blocked duct underneath the skin. This means that sebaceous cysts are under the skin, unlike pimples which typically form much closer to the outermost layer of your skin. Unfortunately, this means cysts can’t be “popped” like a regular pimple would be. In this case, picking or scratching at a sebaceous cyst would do much more harm than good. If you’re not sure whether or not you have a cyst, look for a dome-shaped bump that is firm and relatively mobile. You can find sebaceous cysts most commonly on the scalp, face, neck, and back.

Treatment for Acne and Cysts

Acne and cysts can both be treated at home, but it’s typically recommended to go to a dermatologist for more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatment options. If you want to try an at-home treatment for acne, you can find multiple over-the-counter acne treatments with salicylic acid in them. This ingredient is usually effective in aiding the treatment of acne. As far as sebaceous cysts go, it’s possible that they will go away on their own. At-home treatments typically include hot compresses and keeping the affected area as clean as possible. As far as cosmetic dermatology services go, a cyst will typically be surgically removed to ensure it doesn’t occur again.

When Should You See a Doctor?

While it’s always a good idea to see your dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment, there are instances where acne and cysts go away on their own. That being said, it’s important to know when home remedies aren’t going to work. If you’ve tried cyst and acne treatment at home to no avail, it could be time to see a doctor. In addition, if you notice a foul smell, leaking pus, or experience pain at the site of a sebaceous cyst, it’s important to see your dermatologist right away.

At North Pacific Dermatology, we want to help you live your happiest, most confident life. If you have questions about acne, set up a consultation with our team today. Together we can find the right acne treatment for you.

7 best scalp acne shampoos and other treatments for head acne

Acne is not isolated to the face or even the back — pesky breakouts can also pop up on the scalp, resulting in scalp acne. As its name suggests, scalp acne consists of whiteheads and blemishes directly on the scalp, explained board-certified dermatologist Steven Shapiro, MD, founder of Shapiro MD hair care line. Hairstylist Courtney Foster added scalp acne typically occurs along the hairline and can be found throughout the scalp. To help you heal scalp acne, we interviewed medical doctors and hair experts for their go-to product recommendations.

SKIP AHEAD Best scalp acne treatments

Related

Scalp acne: Common causes and how to treat it

There are a few reasons why you might be dealing with scalp acne and the good news is that you’re able to control some of these causes with over-the-counter products and some lifestyle changes. Scalps are “loaded with oil glands” and the buildup of dead skin, oil and hair products can “create a perfect environment for bacterial overgrowth” that leads to pimples, according to board-certified dermatologist Jessie Cheung, MD, who added sweat, friction and humidity can also cause scalp acne.

An easy way to prevent scalp acne is to switch up the products you use or at least modify how you use them. Oil-based hair care products like pomade “block oil from being released from pore or follicular openings,” noted board-certified dermatologist Lindsey Bordone, MD, of Columbia University Medical Center. She advised swapping out these oil-based items for lighter, water-based styling products instead. If you prefer using thicker hair styling products, she advised applying them at least one inch away from your scalp to prevent acne.

The bad news is that if your scalp acne is genetic or hormonal, it’s going to get a bit trickier to remedy. For example, pregnant women can produce progesterone, a hormone that can cause oil glands to secrete more sebum, which builds up on your scalp, congests your pores and leads to scalp acne, Shapiro said. In those instances, your safest and most effective solution is to book an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist who can help you figure out potential treatment options.

Best and worst ingredients for treating scalp acne

Cheung recommended clarifying shampoos to help to remove buildup on your scalp and to look out for ingredients like salicylic acid, which helps break up oil and dead skin cells. She’s also a fan of hair care products that utilize tea tree oil, sulfur and benzoyl peroxide, all of which “will decrease surface bacteria.” She added shampoo made with coal tar “decreases inflammation while exfoliating the scalp” and dandruff shampoos will minimize oil production.

And as for the worst ingredients, Cheung cautioned against the following:

• Sulfates will produce a lather to clean the scalp but “can cause excessive drying which leads to irritation.”
• Dimethicone smoothes dry hair but can cause build up on the scalp.
• Triclosan is a “controversial antimicrobial” because it can act as a hormone disruptor.

Best products to treat scalp acne

The medical doctors and hair experts we consulted recommended nine hair care products made with common pimple-fighting ingredients, including salicylic acid and glycolic acid. In addition to ordering directly through brands, you can find these scalp acne remedies wherever you like to shop for hair care products, including Walmart, Amazon, Target, Ulta and Sephora. Regardless of which product you use, Cheung noted that you may notice a drying effect “immediately,” but scalp acne can take a few days to heal.

Yes, you can use acne spot treatments formulated for your face on your scalp pimples. Cheung noted these treatments might be “messy” because they likely won’t blend into your hair but noted they are still functional against scalp acne when you’re “in a pinch.” Differin utilizes adapalene, a popular skin care ingredient known for treating blackheads, teen acne and adult acne. It was also the No.1 bestselling skin care product we covered in 2020 and a popular skin care product among Shopping readers during Amazon Prime Day. It boasts a 4.5-star average rating from nearly 39,230 reviews on Amazon.

When board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, wants his patients to treat scalp acne, he suggests Dove Dermacare shampoo. It contains zinc pyrithione, which lowers yeast on the scalp, reduces inflammation and decreases the number of scalp bumps, pimples and flakes, according to Zeichner. He advised to let it sit on the scalp for five minutes before rinsing to “allow it enough contact time for it to do its job.” As one of the best shampoos of 2021, this drugstore option previously received a recommendation from board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, who lauded its “mild” formula that “can decrease yeast on the skin without causing irritation.” It earned a 4.5-star average rating from 250 reviews on Amazon.

This shampoo is “great” for treating scalp acne because it is formulated with tea tree oil, which has antibacterial properties, according to board-certified dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD. She also noted it is made with lactic acid, a popular type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), that helps unclog pores. Ovante advises using one to two tablespoons of shampoo on your wet hair and scalp and let it soak for up to five minutes before rinsing.

Briogeo is a Black-owned business that earned the Clean at Sephora seal, plus a recommendation from Foster, who noted it helps remove dead skin cells and product buildup on the scalp. The combination of charcoal and peppermint helps to draw out impurities from the scalp and leaves behind a cooling effect that soothes scalp inflammation, according to Foster. Briogeo’s Scalp Revival earned a 4.4-star average rating from more than 1,710 reviews on Nordstrom.

Cheung recommended CLn’s shampoo because salicylic acid unclogs hair follicles. She also noted this investment-worthy shampoo produces a gentle lather to cleanse your scalp without over-drying. It received a 4.3-star average rating from more than 1,510 reviews on Amazon.

Zeichner recommended using Carter + Jane’s Scalp Fix dry shampoo if you’re unable to shampoo your hair frequently. According to Zeichner, witch hazel and peppermint oil help soothe the scalp and remove excess oil, which can improve both flakes and scalp acne. It’s also formulated with manuka honey and rosemary oil, the latter of which has astringent benefits, he added.

Hill is also a fan of this scalp acne serum because it is made with biotin, a popular hair care ingredient known for preventing breakage. It is also formulated with ginseng root, lilac stem cells and malabar kino bark, which together will prevent bacteria and yeast growth on the scalp, according to the brand.

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6 things I wish I knew about treating the issue

As someone who survived high school and college with barely a zit in sight (no, seriously), you can imagine the shock and dismay I felt about breaking out with cystic acne at age 24.

The day I went to my dermatologist, I convinced myself that the hard, red bumps on one side of my cheek were a weird allergic reaction or even bed bugs (I lived in New York City at the time). But as soon as my doctor put on her plastic gloves and touched my cheek, she said, “Oh honey, you have acne, not bug bites.”

“Acne?! No, I don’t get zits … like ever,” I quickly said back.

“Well it looks like these three pimples on your cheek have been growing under your skin for awhile now and it’s likely cystic acne,” she said.

I wouldn’t wish my acne upon my worst enemy. Luckily, I learned a few tips and tricks along the way.Jamie Stone

Once I was able to absorb the fact that I was having my first bad skin day (or month) ever, my doctor began to explain that a lot of adults deal with acne. Cystic acne is even less fun because they’re the kind of pimples you can’t pop — they just hurt a lot and look like you have little red volcanoes on your face. To make matters worse, they sometimes last for weeks at a time.

RELATED: How texting can keep you acne-free (and 8 other zit-fighting tricks)

It took about two years to get the cysts under control, but it was a constant struggle physically and emotionally. Looking at my makeup-free face in the morning was insanely hard for me and it would often affect my self-esteem. I wouldn’t wish it upon my worst enemy.

I was eventually prescribed an oral antibiotic that cured the issue (topical treatment didn’t work for me) and learned some helpful tips and tricks along the way.

Now, I hope that my hard-earned knowledge will make the process a little less painful for others.

1. Don’t try to pick or pop cystic acne.

This is so important because picking at the zit can scar your skin and, even worse, make the infection spread and last longer.

2. Do take the oral antibiotics, but make sure you also take a probiotic to balance it out.

If I were to do it all over again, I would’ve listened to my dad who warned me about the effects of taking antibiotics every day. I’m not a doctor, but my dermatologist confirmed that the daily use of antibiotics can throw off the balance of “good bacteria” in your stomach. Taking a daily probiotic can help restore that balance.

RELATED: Does dirty skin give you acne?

3. Don’t overdry your skin.

This is the most common acne myth! Breakouts don’t always mean that your skin is oily or greasy. In fact, I’ve always had skin that’s a little on the dry side. When I first started breaking out, I made the huge mistake of using over-the-counter, topical acne treatments on my pimples. Salicylic acid and sulfur can be fabulous for some kinds of acne, but not for cystic acne. Make sure you hydrate your skin with a good moisturizer so that your skin doesn’t feel the need to overproduce its natural oils.

4. Do use makeup to cover up redness, but don’t expect it to cover the bump itself.

The thing that sucks the most about cystic acne is that each zit is usually pretty big and round. Even after makeup, you can definitely still see the texture difference. After some experimentation, here’s how I covered up my mini volcanoes:

1. Apply a primer.
2. Use a full-coverage foundation. This was the hardest part for me because I’ve always preferred a lighter foundation, but I noticed that a thicker foundation would make the bumps appear smaller.
3. Dab concealer on with your clean finger. I tried using sponges and it just never stuck for some reason.
4. Lightly dust your cheeks with a setting powder so that it doesn’t rub off throughout the day.

5. Do spot treat with the

right products.

Like I mentioned earlier, salicylic acid and sulfur won’t help cystic acne. It can make it even worse if it dries out or irritates your skin. But I was pretty loyal to two products that were 100 percent worth it in my books.

1. Renee Rouleau Anti Cyst Treatment: While it didn’t make the bumps disappear all together, this treatment would always make them heal faster and feel less painful.
2. Biologique Recherche Lotion P50: I met a facialist who insisted that this product would change my skin forever. She was right. I used it pretty religiously for the last year of my acne and still turn to it when I get breakouts. The P50 helps speed up the skin’s natural exfoliating process and helps maintain the acidity level.

RELATED: The biggest skincare dilemmas women face in their 20s — and how to fix them

6. Do get a cortisone shot.

When you get a really bad cyst, I would absolutely recommend seeing a dermatologist if possible. The cortisone gets injected into the root of the pimple (i.e. where all the bacteria is sitting) and kills it quickly. Every single time I got one of these shots, the zit was completely gone in about three hours. Not even joking.

Best Cystic Acne Treatment | How To Really Get Rid Of Cystic Acne

Of all the different types of acne, cystic acne is perhaps the most persistent – and definitely the most physically painful. If you’ve experienced these red, angry spots that live teasingly under the surface of the skin, never quite coming to a head, you’ll know exactly what we mean.

But that’s not the only reason why cystic spots win the unpopularity contest – they’re also much more difficult to treat than blackheads, whiteheads or closed comedones.

If you’ve tried every trick in the book, and come up short every time, don’t give up just yet. We’ve spoken to the country’s leading acne experts to discover exactly how to manage these deep-seated breakouts safely and effectively. Stay with us for everything you need to know about treating, covering, and preventing cystic acne, both at home and in the hands of a dermatologist.

What Is Cystic Acne?

‘The term cystic acne is used to describe large, red, painful, deep lumps that look like boils and represent the most severe form of the acne condition,’ explains consultant dermatologist Dr. Justine Kluk. Like other manifestations of acne – think whiteheads and pustules – these persistent blemishes are caused by an abnormal level of sebum mixing with dead skin cells deep inside our pores. ‘This leads to blockages, activation of a bacterium known as cutibacterium acnes and subsequent swelling, pus and inflammation.’

ELLE Edit: Cystic Acne Treatments

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Paula’s Choice
feelunique.com

£29.00

This legendary toner is designed to be swiped over problematic patches after cleansing. Trust us, it works. 

DRx SpotLite Blemish Reducer

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare
cultbeauty.co.uk

£59.00

Studies have found blue light therapy to deliver significant improvements in inflammatory conditions such as acne, and this pocket-sized torch is the easiest way to reap the benefits. Simply hold it over cystic spots for three minutes a time.  

ZITSTICKA KILLA

ZITSTICKA
cultbeauty.co.uk

£27.00

While a regular hydrocolloid spot sticker will do little good on a deep cystic spot, these clever ones feature tiny microdarts that send a combination of niacinamide and salicylic acid straight to the source of the problem. 

C-50 Blemish Night Treatment

This bargain salicylic-acid treatment has garnered endless rave reviews. 

What Causes Cystic Acne?

According to Kluk, hormones are a key player in sparking a bout of acne, which explains why you always seem to spot a cyst looming around the same time as your period. This is because hormonal fluctuations can stimulate oil production and thicken the lining of the pores.

What’s more, genetics, our diet and lifestyle can also play a role.

Best Cystic Acne Treatment – The Professional Options

Sadly, eliminating cystic acne isn’t as easy as slapping on a face mask and crossing your fingers. If your case is acute, it might be worth considering professional treatment.

‘Treatment of cystic acne can be challenging and may require a combination of medicines,’ says Dr. Kluk, who advises seeking a referral to a consultant dermatologist. She stresses the importance of making an appointment sooner, rather than later, as leaving things too long may lead to scarring. ‘An oral retinoid medication called isotretinoin is often required to control cystic acne. Sometimes oral antibiotics and corticosteroids (which may also be injected into the most inflamed cysts) are also prescribed,’ she explains.

Filippo Fortis

Debbie Thomas, skin expert and founder of D.Thomas Clinic, also recommends a course of isotretinoin (aka Roaccutane), for extremely persistent cases of cystic acne. Studies have found it to be incredibly effective, but this powerful treatment shouldn’t be taken lightly. While you can expect to see a reduction in your acne within approximately 4-6 months, there are many less appealing side effects of isotretinoin to consider – and lifestyle changes that must be made – all of which will be explained by your dermatologist.

‘On lower doses and if monitored correctly, there is much less risk of unwanted side effects with Roaccutane,’ says Thomas. ‘Just remember, your skin will become more sensitive while taking it, so be gentle and protect it from the sun every day with an SPF 50.’

Next up, lasers. Thomas highly recommends a course of laser facial treatments, which can be cocktailed with microneedling sessions (do not try this at home), and salon-strength peels.

‘The key is to go to someone who is experienced at managing acne-prone skin. I have to tailor the treatment to each person to get the best results. A point to remember is that acne is closely linked to hormones, so it is triggered internally, and the symptoms show externally. This means that there is no real cure for acne but rather ways to manage the symptoms – so prepare for a long-term plan and not a quick fix.’

Matteo Scarpellini

The Best Cystic Acne Treatment – The At-Home Tool Kit

At-home treatments for cystic acne do exist, though – and they can be pleasingly effective when it comes to mild-to-moderate cases.

Like most experts, Thomas considers topical retinol the most powerful and proven ingredient when it comes to treating acne – but you must use it correctly, and be patient.

‘Retinol can now be bought over the counter at a 0.5% strength, or you can get a prescription from your doctor for 1% or higher. You need to use retinol consistently and regularly for 6-12 weeks to see the results,’ she says. It’s best to introduce your skin to this ingredient slowly: try applying it every third night for the first fortnight, and monitor any redness and irritation you experience. If it feels sore or inflamed, scale things back until your skin acclimatises more.

Another option is salicylic acid. ‘It’s oil-soluble, so it can penetrate much deeper than other acids, and is also slightly antibacterial and anti-inflammatory,’ says Thomas. Again, this pore-clearing beta-hydroxy-acid can be drying, so remember that less is more, and always layer a light hydrator on top.

ELLE Edit: Retinols For Cystic Acne

Skinceuticals Retinol 0.3 Corrective Treatment

Pure and stabilised retinol (rather than a weaker derivative) makes this night cream a powerful option for resurfacing those pesky scars. 

Retinol 1% in Squalane

The Ordinary
boots.com

£5.80

The only reliable retinol to cost less than £6

Retinol 0.3% + Vitamin B3 Serum

La Roche-Posay
feelunique.com

£28.50

La Roche-Posay’s retinols are recommended by so many dermatologists. This serum is a great entry point into the world of ‘active’ skincare. 

Crystal Retinal 1 Serum

Medik8
lookfantastic.com

£39.00

Medik8 specialises in retinol products, and this one is the best starting point. Once you’ve finished the tube, progress onto the stronger Crystal Retinal 3. 

What Not To Do – And What Not To Buy

While topical products may help to keep acne-prone skin healthy, Dr. Kluk is keen to stress that serums and skincare alone won’t bring severe cystic acne under control. However, she does recommend sticking to a few skincare principles while on your path to clearer skin…

• Never try to pick or squeeze cysts. This can lead to infection and increase the risks of scarring. Yes, we know it’s tempting, but you will not win.
• Don’t attempt to scrub or exfoliate the skin. This can increase swelling and redness.
• Use a mild cleanser and moisturiser, and a sunscreen in the morning too. This may be all that is necessary whilst you complete your course of medication.

As Thomas adds, some products may actually contribute to the formation of blockages in the pores, ultimately exasperating your acne. She advises ditching the oils, balms and richer creams, looking instead for products – both skincare and makeup – marked ‘non-comedogenic’, (non pore-blocking). ‘Also avoid overly drying products,’ she says. ‘Drying out the surface will rarely affect a cyst, and really just causes more redness and irritation.’

ELLE Edit: Make-Up For Cystic Acne

Oxygenating Breathable Foundation

This breathable foundation was created for use post-surgery, meaning it’s as kind to the skin as possible. A game-changer for congested complexions. 

Bye Bye Breakout

A high-coverage formula that treats while it conceals. Brilliant. 

Silk Crème Oil-Free Foundation

The OG oil-free foundation, and still the best. 

Original Loose Mineral Foundation SPF15

bareMinerals
feelunique.com

£23.30

This classic mineral foundation is still a godsend for red, angry and sensitive skin. Buff it on, building the layers to cover angry red spots. 

The Best Products For Cystic Acne

Of course, everyone’s skin is unique, and the treatment that worked for your mate may not do a thing for you. However, Thomas’ no-messing routine for cystic acne-prone skin makes a brilliant jumping-off point for anyone attempting a skin transformation – even if it’s a stop-gap while you wait for a dermatologist’s appointment.

AM:

• Wash with a salicylic-acid face wash to keep pores as clean as possible.
• Apply a vitamin C serum. This helps protect the skin and reduces the likelihood of post-inflammatory pigmentation.
• Apply a lightweight lotion.
• Finish with an oil-free SPF.

ELLE Edit: Spf For Cystic Acne

Advanced Day Total Protect

Medik8
Look Fantastic

£41.25

A brilliant everyday sunscreen that won’t break you out. 

Clear Moisturiser SPF30

The extra-light texture of this SPF will appeal to anyone with acne-prone skin. 

Very High Protection Mineral Fluid SPF50+

A beauty-editor favourite,  this sunscreen uses mineral filters that are generally kinder on irritated skin and has a subtle mattifying effect. 

Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defence SPF 30

Fan-favourite Drunk Elephant knows how to craft a stellar SPF. This one is silky, nourishing and reliable.  

PM:

• Wash with your salicylic cleanser again.
• Apply retinol (initially only every third night, before working slowly up).
• Apply a light hydrator – a serum or lotion is great – containing niacinamide to reduce enlarged pores and calm the skin.

ELLE Edit: Face Wash For Cystic Acne

Clear Cleanser

Salicylic acid sits alongside hydrating glycerin in this balancing cleanser. 

Acne Deep Cleanse

Packed with high levels of salicylic acid, this gel cleanser is a real heavy hitter.

Hydrating Cleanser

Working to cleanse without stripping the skin, this affordable staple is the ideal partner to your new retinol.

Medik8 Clarifying Foam

Free from oils and packed with both AHAs and BHAs, this is a stellar cleanser with added exfoliating powers. 

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90,000 Antiseptic at home: a life hack for preparation

For an antiseptic to be effective, that is, to kill viruses and bacteria, you need to know about some rules. The authors of the Even Cheaper program on the MIR TV channel checked whether it is possible to create a high-quality disinfectant at home.

For the preparation of an antiseptic, doctors recommend using ethyl alcohol. But you cannot buy it without a prescription in a pharmacy. However, there are recipes that use others instead of this ingredient.

The first recipe – salicylic acid (it contains 65% ethanol – so much is needed to produce a high-quality antiseptic), cosmetic oil, tea tree essential oil. You need to take three bottles of salicylic acid, add a teaspoon of cosmetic oil (this is necessary so as not to dry out the skin). It can be replaced with ordinary vegetable oil. Pour 2-3 drops of tea tree oil into a container and stir. This solution will contain about 63.5% alcohol – slightly less than needed for complete hand disinfection.

Second recipe. To prepare an antispetik, you will need an alcoholic herbal tincture – calendula or chamomile, vitamin E in capsules. They need to be pierced and the contents are poured into a container for the tincture. Measurements have shown that this antiseptic is optimal in terms of alcohol content – 65%.

The third recipe is isopropyl alcohol (you can order it at any online hardware store), hydrogen peroxide, glycerin, boiled water. These ingredients for the preparation of an antiseptic are recommended by WHO.To obtain a liter of antiseptic, you need to mix 750 ml of isopropyl alcohol, 14.5 ml of glycerin, 42 ml of hydrogen peroxide, 200 ml of boiled water. The percentage of alcohol in such an antiseptic is more than 80.

Such home remedies cannot be stored for more than a week. For them to work effectively, you need to process your hands for at least 30 seconds.

90,000 How to choose acne patches that really work

Photo: Starface

Patches for the area around the eyes have long conquered the world, but what about acne patches? We figured out how they work, which ones should be chosen depending on the condition of the skin and what to look for in the composition.

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The format of patches for inflammations is convenient, first of all, because of its locality. If you need to heal one or two pimples, you do not have to apply a potent compound all over your face. The second significant advantage is that the patch is glued like a plaster and protects inflammation from street dirt, hand touches and decorative cosmetics.

Then why are there so many negative reviews on the Web about such a useful thing?

The fact is that acne patches are different. All medical “plasters” are divided into two groups: for open wounds and for closed inflammation.If you confuse them, then there will be zero sense from the product.

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Patches for closed inflammations

These are the ones that are designed to prevent you from picking out the annoying pimple. Treats inflammation with powerful ingredients. Search for: zinc, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, niacinamide.

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Blemish Dots, Skyn ​​Iceland

Hit patch with a percussive mix of salicylic acid and tea tree oil to reduce the size of inflammation and the area of ​​redness around it in just one night.Due to the gel base, they pleasantly cool the skin. Best for oily and normal skin types.

Blemish Dots, Skyn ​​Iceland, 2200 p.

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Spot Patches, Peace Out

But these patches, on the contrary, are suitable for dry and sensitive skin. In them, salicylic acid is combined with vitamin A and aloe vera extract, due to which it removes the feeling of tightness.

Spot Patches, Peace Out, 2090 p.

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Patches for open inflammations

The case when the hands reached and turned the face into a minefield.In order not to bring the situation to suppuration or infection in the wound, you will need a lot without (yes, yes) potent ingredients. The composition should contain a hydrocolloid – a polymer that is used in medicine in the manufacture of medical dressings, since it has strong absorbent properties. This means it will be able to keep the wound clean by absorbing harmful bacteria and impurities. Sometimes such patches are enriched with antiseptics.

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Clear Fix Master Patch, Cosrx

Contains hydrocolloid, cellulose resin that neutralizes bacteria, and liquid paraffin, which accelerates the healing of injuries and inflammations.Great helper for sos situation.

Clear Fix Master Patch, Cosrx, 390 p.

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Witch Piggy Hell Pore, Elisavecca

Their goal is to soak up everything they can, and the advantage is a large package with stickers of different sizes. The second advantage: they last all night and do not stay on the pillow.

Witch Piggy Hell Pore, Elisavecca, 300 rub.

Professional face serums – proper skin care – Health

Beautiful and healthy skin is the result of proper skin care.To do this, you need to pick up a lot of care products. Among them are professional serums for the face, which are quite popular on the market.

These products are perfect for saturating the skin with useful elements. In addition, professional serums from the site https://aslaboratory.com.ua are capable of performing other useful functions.

What you should know about professional face serums?

This is one of the most important care products.It is used after cleansing and before applying moisturizers. Many people think that a good moisturizing serum can replace a cream. This is not at all the case.

Each tool has its own purpose. If we are talking about a professional serum for the face, then we can think of this:

• Good hydration will not hurt the skin. She will look healthier and more beautiful. After that, you can apply your usual cream.
• If your skin is prone to acne, you should have a professional face serum, which includes vitamin C, salicylic acid.Other components may also be present. It’s all about reducing inflammation, reducing irritation, and unclogging pores.
• Recovery is another important point. The product should relieve inflammation and soothe the skin. And also contribute to its recovery.
• If you have aging skin, you should have a professional face serum with a tightening effect. It is also important to ensure smoothing of wrinkles.

It is clear that these are far from all the problems in which you need to select the appropriate serum.If you think about everything right, you can provide proper skin care.

How to choose the right face cream-active?

The modern assortment allows you to choose different care products. It is important to think about certain subtleties:

• If you have problems with your skin, then a therapeutic serum for the face is selected, which will help to minimize all the problems. There is no problem, you can select basic products that will suit your skin type.
• Inquire about the composition of the funds. There should be only safe and high-quality components. If you are allergic to something, avoid such cosmetics.
• Decide on a brand. Many companies now offer huge lines of regular and healing facial serums. Give preference only to well-known and proven brands that value their reputation. Accordingly, the products will be of high quality. Remember that their price will not be too low, but you pay for the quality.

If you think carefully about every moment, you can give your skin the right care. You will always look beautiful.

Where to buy quality care cosmetics in Ukraine?

There are now many different brands that can be found in stores. This allows you to pick everything up without any problems. With the online store A.S. Laboratory will enjoy your purchase.

You will need a minimum of time to select and place an order.There is a detailed description for each product. If you have any difficulties, professionals will help with the selection of care. You can also sign up for a consultation, where specialists will study the problem and select the necessary funds.

In addition, other favorable conditions for the acquisition are well thought out here:

• Since the orders will be delivered by “New Mail”, you can easily buy a healing serum for the face in Kiev, Lviv and other cities of the country. There is also the possibility of self-pickup from the showroom in Khmelnitsky.
• There are several options to pay for your order.
• There is a loyalty system in place, which is very beneficial.

Take good care of yourself and be the most beautiful.

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) – symptoms, treatment, prevention, causes, first signs

Human sweat has three main functions: it helps to reduce body temperature, get rid of excess water, as well as some metabolic products and toxic substances.Depending on the need, the process of sweating becomes more or less intense. The activity of the sweat glands is regulated by the nervous system and some hormones.

Causes of increased sweating

Related news

Hyperhidrosis can be general (sweating all over the body) or local (most often there is increased sweating of the palms and feet, large folds on the skin). There are many reasons for this pathological condition:

• Diseases of the endocrine glands: diabetes mellitus, decreased blood sugar, acromegaly.
• Infectious diseases: sepsis (“blood poisoning”), malaria, tuberculosis.
• Malignant tumors.
• Neurological diseases: lesions of the nervous system in syphilis, parkinsonism, stroke.
• Certain genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis.
• Common causes of excessive sweating of the palms and feet are features of the nervous system, hyperexcitability, vegetative-vascular dystonia.
• Flat feet and tight, uncomfortable shoes are a common cause of excessive sweating.

Symptoms of hyperhidrosis

General increased sweating is often accompanied by an unpleasant odor. Sweat can leave marks on clothes. This leads to psychological discomfort and complexities in a person suffering from hyperhidrosis. Excessive sweating of the palms and feet, as a rule, occurs in stressful situations, when a person experiences fear and anxiety.

The appearance of sweat leads to increased excitement, which further increases perspiration. People who suffer from excessive sweating of the palms often have many psychological problems. For example, they try not to shake hands when greeting, and because of this, communication with relatives, friends, colleagues suffers.

What can you do?

People with hyperhidrosis need to carefully follow the rules of personal hygiene. Showering daily can help eliminate unpleasant sweat odors.Deodorants and antiperspirants also help prevent excessive sweating and eliminate odor.

During hot weather, preference should be given to light-colored clothing that reflects the sun’s rays. These measures, although they may be effective, are still not able to eliminate the cause of the problem. It is necessary to prescribe treatment, and, moreover, only a specialist doctor can do this correctly. If you sweat, see a dermatologist.

What can a doctor do?

If excessive sweating is a symptom of a medical condition, treatment should be directed to the underlying cause.For example, if the condition of a patient with diabetes mellitus is stabilized and insulin therapy is prescribed correctly, then hyperhidrosis will no longer bother him. If excessive sweating is provoked by excitement in stressful situations, then a psychologist should work with the patient. Individual and group psychotherapy and hypnosis treatment are used.

Of the medications, sedatives, drugs that affect the nervous system, Botox injections are often used (the effect lasts for about 1.5 years).Of the physiotherapeutic procedures, baths with needles and oak bark, a contrast shower, electrosleep, and electrophoresis are highly effective.

Non-surgical methods often give only a temporary effect, in some cases they turn out to be ineffective. Surgical intervention helps to completely eliminate excessive sweating. There are different options for operations:

• Removal of the nerve node, which regulates the functions of the sweat glands. Operation through an incision, endoscopic surgery, destruction of a nerve node by aggressive chemicals through an inserted needle can be performed.
• Armpit liposuction. The doctor removes subcutaneous fat from the armpits, and with it, small nerves that affect the work of the sweat glands and cause excessive sweating.
• Curettage of the armpit – removal of the sweat glands and nerves that regulate their work.
• Treatment of excessive sweating with a laser. Operations are performed using the same devices used to treat cellulite. The laser beam destroys the sweat glands located under the skin.This method is the most modern: it is highly effective, but at the same time has a minimum of contraindications and side effects.

Found an error? Select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Temperature | Elena Kornilova

High temperature for colds and viral infections is malaise, weakness, a broken state. But you should not immediately take antipyretics: relief will be short-term, recovery will be delayed, and in some cases, antipyretics will only harm.

The human body is an incredibly perfect self-regulating structure, very sensitive to any positive and negative influences. Nature has created in our body ideal mechanisms for correcting any disturbances that arise in its work, and temperature is one of them.

Why it is not necessary to knock down the temperature

When we see numbers above 37 degrees on the thermometer, we get upset. In fact, we should be happy: everything is going according to plan.It is thanks to hyperthermia that our body is able to independently fight foreign organisms. An increase in body temperature in response to the introduction of viruses or bacteria is a defense reaction aimed at enhancing the immune response.

At elevated temperatures, immune factors work most actively: cells responsible for antiviral and antibacterial responses begin to perform their functions much faster and more efficiently, and immune responses become stronger.

Antibodies circulating in the blood, bound to foreign antigens, as well as fragments of viruses and bacterial membranes, enter the hypothalamus, where the center of thermoregulation is located, with the blood stream, and cause an increase in temperature.This is a defensive reaction, so do not panic and try to immediately bring down the temperature with the help of antipyretic drugs. By such actions, you only suppress the immune response and prevent the body from fighting infections, because some of them die at a body temperature of about 38 degrees. Not to mention, antipyretic drugs have certain side effects.

In the case of a cold or a viral infection, it is the rise in temperature that is the very healing force that fights the disease and allows you to recover much faster and with fewer complications.This is why it is important not to knock down even the high temperature.

Instead, it is better to pay attention to the diet. Fasting is indicated at high temperatures, especially for children. You cannot force them to eat animal products at the time of illness. Also, you should not take any vitamins and minerals, except for vitamins C, D and zinc with magnesium. The best thing that can be done for an adult or a child with a fever on the background of a cold is to provide plenty of drink (water or citrus juices mixed with water can be safely drunk in large quantities).

Why is paracetamol dangerous?

For many mothers, paracetamol is the first medicine for high fever in a child. And many adults, after having heated up, make a choice in favor of paracetamol. To be honest: every second pediatrician first of all prescribes paracetamol for colds. But this OTC remedy is far from harmless!

Paracetamol is known for its side effects on the stomach: it causes the development of an inflammatory process, even the formation of erosions and bleeding.In addition, paracetamol provokes the development of enteropathy in the intestine. But the most dangerous are its side effects on the liver.

Paracetamol causes destruction of liver cells, contributing to the development of toxic hepatitis, and with its intensive use or high doses can lead to acute liver failure! And this is an emergency situation requiring a liver transplant. The use of paracetamol for the treatment of children around the world is limited. In a number of countries, paracetamol occupies the first line in the list of causes of liver damage, which leads, among other things, to death.

Why does the fatal blow to the liver? It’s simple – about 97% of the drug is metabolized in the liver: 80% enters into conjugation reactions with glucuronic acid and sulfates to form inactive metabolites (glucuronide and paracetamol sulfate), 17% undergoes hydroxylation to form eight active metabolites, which are conjugated with glutathione to form already inactive metabolites.

With a lack of glutathione, these metabolites can block the enzyme systems of hepatocytes and cause their necrosis.It is interesting to find at least one person now whose liver detoxification phases are not overloaded.

Research on the complications of paracetamol has been conducted in the United States for several years. The issue was brought to the attention of the FDA in connection with the increased frequency of overdose, causing liver damage. According to official figures, paracetamol use is the most common cause of liver damage in the United States. Every year 56 thousand people get to doctors with such a diagnosis, on average 458 cases end in death.

The poisoning was not prevented even by the many years of educational campaign carried out by the authorities. Americans drink paracetamol more often than other pain relievers because they believe it is less harmful to the digestive system.

In Russia, cases of paracetamol poisoning have remained relatively rare until recently. But the appearance on the domestic pharmaceutical market of a large number of dosage forms containing paracetamol, including enhanced and prolonged action, as well as high doses of the drug included in one package (up to 100 tablets), has led to an increase in the number of these poisonings.

According to the materials of the Irkutsk Center for Acute Poisoning, over the past three years, the emergence of paracetamol poisoning, including in extremely severe forms, has been noted. The greatest number of these poisonings is recorded during the influenza epidemic.

A little more about the dangers of paracetamol

Paracetamol severely depletes glutathione, the antioxidant defense. Many children already have problems with this! If you are giving your child antipyretics, strictly, very strictly observe the dosage, try to do with the minimum doses! Always keep a NAC in your medicine cabinet – it is an antidote.

The use of paracetamol for children under 4 years of age is extremely undesirable, since up to this age almost all babies suffer from mitochondrial liver cell insufficiency, which is aggravated by taking the drug, which initially manifests itself as an enlarged liver, and then – liver failure.

Paracetamol is strictly prohibited for pregnant women! A European study found that women who took a combination of more than one type of mild analgesic (paracetamol, aspirin, and ibuprofen) during pregnancy, or who drank at least one of these drugs in the second trimester of pregnancy, were more likely to have sons with cryptorchidism (undescended testicles), a condition associated with poor sperm quality and the risk of testicular testicular cancer later in life.

The results were confirmed by another study. A team of scientists found that pain medications taken by a woman during pregnancy disrupt the production of male hormones, lowering testosterone levels during the crucial period when male organs are formed in the fetus. The researchers concluded that the effects of pain relievers were similar to those of well-known endocrine hormone disruptors such as phthalates.

Long-term use of paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen seriously disrupts the intestinal microbiota, negatively affects its wall, leaky gut syndrome, etc.p.

How to avoid paracetamol poisoning

Paracetamol poisoning is a serious clinical toxicology problem. Statistics can be found in the informational and methodological letter for students, clinical residents, interns, practitioners “Paracetamol poisoning: clinic, diagnosis, treatment” (see page 6, chapter “Epidemiology of paracetamol poisoning”, page 8, chapter “Pathogenesis of poisoning” – how the initial stages of poisoning manifest themselves, at what doses are hepatotoxic effects possible, and p.11 chapter “The clinical picture of poisoning”).

It is important to understand that paracetamol is also a component of many cold medicines. The State Register of Medicines contains more than 450 medicines with paracetamol! Therefore, take a closer look at the composition of the drugs offered in the pharmacy for the treatment of flu and rhinitis (many beloved Coldrex and Teraflu contain paracetamol, and in a very large dose).

In case of poisoning with paracetamol with the development of drug hepatitis , the antidote is N-acetylcysteine ​​(ACC) .The first dose of ACC (140 mg / kg orally) is given as early as possible (it can be administered through a gastric or duodenal tube together with activated charcoal), then 70 mg / kg orally every 4 hours, a total of 17 times.

Many will be surprised, what does the ACC have to do with it – it is also used as an expectorant. The answer is in biochemistry. Acetylcysteine ​​activates the synthesis of glutathione, an important factor in chemical detoxification (Anderson M.E., Luo J. L., 1996). Acetylcysteine ​​protects the cells of the body from the influence of free radicals both by direct reaction with them and by supplying cysteine ​​for the synthesis of glutathione.A number of researchers believe that it is the second mechanism of action of the drug that is most important (Shattuck K.E. et al., 1998). The level of glutathione in the cells of the body largely determines the resistance to oxidative stress and tends to decrease with age.

In addition, the drug can be used as an immunomodulator and antimutagenic agent (Ostroumova M.N. et al., 1994), as well as a radioprotector in persons exposed to ionizing radiation.

High temperature in children

High fever in children is always alarming for parents. And a very high temperature against the background of cold limbs and pale skin leads to real panic. It is necessary to understand: such a state in a child is nothing more than a spasm, in which the blood thickens. At the same time, antipyretics can only do harm, since first of all it is necessary to relieve the spasm. For this, rubbing and warming up the limbs is suitable, it is possible with a warming ointment, but no-spa in tablets or injections (adults in a similar situation can take analgin or 30 ml of cognac).

If you did not manage to relieve the spasm, and the child has seizures, remember: the seizures themselves are not life threatening, last several minutes and do not have negative consequences.

During seizures:

• Turn the child to one side so that he does not choke on saliva.
• Make sure that there are no hard and sharp objects nearby, which may injure him during an attack.
• Make sure nothing is blocking his breathing.

Manage your own anxiety about the child’s high temperature. Remember the words of Hippocrates: “Give me the opportunity to cause fever, and I will heal all diseases” and do not unnecessarily interfere with the natural healing process. Don’t knock the temperature down just for the sake of relieving the baby’s condition!

However, if a high temperature in a child or an adult lasts more than three to five days, new symptoms appear, or after a clear improvement suddenly becomes worse, it means that the immune system cannot cope on its own, medical attention is needed.

Caution – mercury thermometer!

Separately, it is worth mentioning the danger of mercury thermometers: such thermometers should be out of the reach of children, since they break much more often and easier than glasses. If balls of mercury are swallowed, the danger will be almost zero, its absorption is less than 0.1%, but mercury vapors are 100% toxic and are absorbed instantly.

If you have broken the thermometer, call the demercurization services, since it is impossible to eliminate the consequences on your own.Find the phone number of this service in your city in advance to have it at hand. If mercury goes into the floor, it will disintegrate for 3-5 months, and the nervous system is very sensitive to it.

Threw away all mercury thermometers after breaking one on the coffee machine and kettle. Both had to be thrown out the same day. There is no difference between mercury and electronic, you just need to hold the second one for 10 minutes, and not until the first squeak.

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Use an electronic thermometer to measure the temperature of children; a bracelet thermometer or infrared thermometer is suitable for babies.

Herbal preparations at a temperature of

Preparations from medicinal herbs act at temperatures softer than pharmaceuticals and at the same time quite effectively. Many plants contain biologically active substances with antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiviral and antibacterial properties.

For example, salicylic acid is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory and antipyretic agent that helps to quickly eliminate fever in colds and viral respiratory diseases.It is thanks to her that raspberry jam is considered an effective folk remedy for colds. However, dried berries and leaves in this aspect significantly benefit not only from jam, but even from fresh raspberries, since they contain up to ten times more salicylic acid.

Another striking example: willow bark, which has been used since ancient times as an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic agent. Modern research has confirmed that its action is similar to that of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), primarily acetylsalicylic acid.

Salicin, which is part of the white willow, in the intestine, under the influence of microflora, cleaves off a glucose molecule and in the liver, as a result of oxidation, turns into salicylic acid. It inhibits the activity of cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), the same enzymes that NSAIDs block to relieve pain and inflammation. By inhibiting cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, salicin reduces the amount of prostaglandins E1 and E2 formed in inflamed tissues. Hence the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effect is manifested.

White willow salicin does not work as fast as aspirin, but it takes longer and also causes fewer unpleasant side reactions. So, “natural aspirin” in comparison with synthetic, poses a lower risk of damage to the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract. Unlike aspirin, salicin also does not affect blood clotting when used in moderate doses.

In pharmacies today there are many ready-made collections for ARVI / ARI, but be careful: many contain sage, which is not recommended at high temperatures (significantly reduces sweating).Also, do not use fees with a lot of mint for children under three years old.

It is better to make your own temperature collection, all herbs for them can also be bought at the pharmacy.

Collection 1

Contains anti-inflammatory components, natural aspirin, acting without side effects, suitable for both viral and bacterial infections: meadowsweet flowers (meadowsweet) – 2 tbsp, raspberry leaf – 1 tbsp. l, linden flowers – 1 tbsp.l., oregano herb – 1 tbsp, willow bark – 1 tbsp. l, thyme herb – 1 tsp, willow-tea leaf – 1 tbsp. Brew herbs with 1 liter of water at a temperature of 90-95 degrees. Both adults and children can drink like tea.

Collection 2

If at high temperature cramps, cold extremities, marbled skin, then such an antipyretic collection with an antispasmodic effect is suitable: peppermint leaf – 1 tsp, raspberry leaf – 1 tbsp. l, fruits of anise or dill – 1 tbsp, oregano herb – 1 tbsp, meadowsweet flowers (meadowsweet) – 1 tbsp.L., currant leaf – 1 tsp, chamomile flowers – 1 tsp. Pour the mixture of herbs with 1 liter of boiling water, leave for half an hour and drink like tea in small portions (the more often, the better).