If your dermatologist is on your speed dial 24/7, you’ve probably heard of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. These two medicated products are designed to treat acne and improve skin’s complexion. Before you pick either of them up, we suggest you read this feature. If you’re confused about which one to spend your moolah on, we’re going to give you a lowdown. It all boils down to which one is better for you. Let’s begin, shall we?
What In The World Is Benzoyl Peroxide?
To put it in simple terms, benzoyl peroxide helps treat mild and extreme acne outbreaks. You can either use it as an independent product or include it with other acne treatments. It works its magic by causing the skin to dry and peel off. Not mention that it also reduces and eliminates acne-causing bacteria.
How To Use It?
Before using the product, you must test it to see whether it agrees with your skin or not. The last thing you want to do is deal with a nasty acne reaction. We suggest that you apply a small amount of product on a zit. Observe your skin for 2-3 days. If you feel a burning sensation or even experience slight skin irritation, wash it off and stop using the product for good.
How Many Can You Apply It?
Benzoyl peroxide can take the form of lotions, oils, creams, gels and foam. If the product does agree with you, use it once or twice a day. Before applying the product, make it a point to cleanse your skin first. Apply a tiny amount of product to the affected area and gently rub it in. You’ll begin to see the first signs of positive results after 3 weeks of religious use.
We Heart These 3 Benzoyl Peroxide Products!
1. Proactiv Renewing Cleanser (Rs 5,720)
2. Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Daily Leave On Mask (Rs 1,999)
3. Clean & Clear Persa Gel 10 (Rs 1,999)
Do You Know What Is Salicylic Acid?
Salicylic acid is your pimple’s worst nightmare! The moment you spot a zit popping up on your face, grab a product that contains salicylic acid and rub it on the affected area. Leave it on for the night and you’ll notice that the morning after, it’s almost gone! Once applied, salicylic acid loosens and tears apart the attachment between cells present in the outer layer of skin. This helps to unclog pores and encourages exfoliation. Why it’s awesome is because the acid is lipophilic and can penetrate into the oily skin with minimal effort. It helps reduce sebum secretion and soothes inflamed acne.
How To Use It?
Always begin by washing your face before using a product that contains salicylic acid. Once your skin is squeaky clean, apply abit of product and gently rub in. If at all, like benzoyl peroxide, your skin begins to burn, itch or peel off, wash the cream off immediately.
How Often Can You Use It?
If it agrees with your skin, twice a day for two weeks is when you’ll begin to notice the first signs of results. However, before you proceed, you should loop in your dermatologist. Never try to self-treat yourself if even if you’re tempted to do so. Also, the medicine is only meant for your skin. So while applying, be extra careful about it coming in contact with your eyes, nose and mouth. If you face an unpleasant experience, wash your face with water immediately.
We Heart These 3 Salicylic Acid Products!
1. Asepxia Shower Gel (Rs 1,415)
2. Globus Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid Face Wash (Rs 90)
3. Neutrogena Body Clear Scrub (Rs 1,047)
Now that you know the facts, which one of these are you tempted to give a shot first?
