What is the concentration of salicylic acid suitable for skin use and should not exceed the safe range

Nowadays, salicylic acid has been added to many skin care products because it helps us unclog pores, reduce oil secretion, and improve facial acne. So, what concentration of salicylic acid is suitable for skin use?

What concentration of salicylic acid is suitable for skin use?

The concentration of salicylic acid in cosmetics is generally limited to between 0.2% and 1.5%. The upper limit of salicylic acid concentration for skin care use is 2%. Try not to exceed this concentration for daily use. High concentrations of salicylic acid can cause certain damage to the skin, making it prone to thinning and reducing its ability to lock in moisture.

Salicylic acid concentration should not exceed the safe range

Salicylic acid is fat-soluble and can clean out clogged debris through the pores. It has a strong exfoliating and acne-removing effect. However, excessive exfoliation can weaken the skin's barrier function and may cause signs of skin irritation such as erythema, itching, and stinging. Therefore, the concentration of salicylic acid used should not exceed the safe range, and skin moisturizing should be strengthened. Since high concentrations of salicylic acid can cause certain damage to the skin, according to my country's "Cosmetic Hygiene Standards" (2007 edition), the limited concentration of salicylic acid in skin care products and facial cleansers is 2%.

Low concentrations of salicylic acid can help exfoliate, but concentrations above 6% are corrosive to the skin, and high concentrations of 40% have strong keratin-corrosive properties. High concentrations of salicylic acid are for special purposes. The general concentration of salicylic acid for medicinal purposes is 5-10%, while that for removing corns and warts is 40%, and that for cosmetics is below 2%. Among them, the most common ones are the mild type with a concentration of 0.5% and the enhanced type with a concentration of 2%.

When using salicylic acid for the first time, it is best to use a low concentration

When using salicylic acid for the first time, be sure to use a low concentration of salicylic acid first, let the skin tolerate it, and then gradually increase the concentration of salicylic acid. If the skin is intolerant, the skin will easily become allergic.

It is best to do a sensitivity test before using salicylic acid

When using it, pay attention to the salicylic acid concentration and it is best to do a sensitivity test first. You can first apply salicylic acid skin care products to the area behind the ears, and you can continue to apply it if there is no allergic reaction after use. You can use it two or three times in the first week, and then increase the frequency of use after your skin has completely accepted this skin care product. Generally speaking, using it four times a week is enough to achieve better results.