A lot of people are confused about what the difference is in these two products. Some think there isn't any difference. This blog post is to help you clear up the differences in these 2 medications.
SALICYLIC ACID
Salicylic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) which means its an exfoliant. I use salicylic acid on cystic acne, which is acne that doesn't have a white head and is more of a painful, red bump. The salicylic acid helps to exfoliate the skin and penetrates the acne more effectively than benzoyl peroxide. As with all AHA's, use a sunscreen when going outside when you are using salicylic acid.
BENZOYL PEROXIDE
Benzoyl peroxide is a drying agent. I use benzoyl peroxide on acne that has a head (whiteheads) because the benzoyl peroxide actually dries the pimple out and draws the bacteria out of the skin. Sulfur is a drying agent as well. Since some people have both cystic acne and whiteheads, I would suggest using a sulfur based mask to help dry up whiteheads then spot treating your cystic acne with a salicylic acid spot treatment. Slathering both products over your face is a bad idea because it will irritate your skin and may make it breakout worse.
There you have it! Determine what kind of acne you have then pick your weapon. If you have any questions you want answered, don't be afraid to comment!
-AmieeJoy<3
The best way to clear up acne is to use them both! Put the salicylic acid on first, then layer the benzoyl peroxide over it! :)
ReplyDeleteI believe I heard this from Seventeen Magazine, but it really does work
That's what I do to but some of my friends with sensitive skin can only use one or the other on specific pimples. All depends on what your skin can handle :)
ReplyDeleteProactiv uses both in both of their cleanse and repair/moisturise steps.
ReplyDelete