Is Salicylic Acid Safe for Daily Use on Acne-Prone Skin?

Question

I've been struggling with acne for years, and nothing seems to work consistently. Some days my skin looks fine, and then suddenly, I wake up with new breakouts, clogged pores, and redness. A friend suggested using salicylic acid, so I bought a face wash and a serum that contain it. At first, my skin looked clearer, and the small pimples started drying out fast. But after a couple of weeks, my face started feeling super dry and a little irritated, especially around my mouth and nose. Now I’m not sure if I’m overusing salicylic acid or if my skin just doesn’t like it.

I’ve seen so many skincare influencers say that salicylic acid is great for acne, but no one talks about how often to use it. Can it damage the skin barrier if used too much? Should I apply moisturizer before or after using salicylic acid to avoid dryness? I really don’t want to make my acne worse by using the wrong routine.

Also, I’ve heard that Ayurveda has herbal alternatives to salicylic acid for acne. Do natural remedies work as well, or is salicylic acid still the best option for deep pore cleansing? Has anyone successfully cleared their acne with Ayurvedic treatments instead of chemical exfoliants?

Would love to hear what worked for others! Should I keep using salicylic acid, or is there a better way to treat acne without irritation?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Salicylic acid is effective for acne because it exfoliates and unclogs pores, but overuse can cause dryness, irritation, and damage the skin barrier. To avoid this, try using it 2-3 times a week instead of daily, and always follow with a moisturizer to prevent dryness. You can also apply moisturizer before the serum to buffer the skin if it’s too sensitive.

Ayurveda offers alternatives like Neem, Turmeric, and Aloe Vera, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties without the risk of irritation. Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia) and Sandalwood are also used to reduce redness and improve skin tone naturally. A gentle face mask with Multani Mitti (Fuller’s Earth) and Rosewater can help absorb excess oil and soothe breakouts.

If your skin feels too irritated, it’s okay to take a break from salicylic acid and explore these Ayurvedic options. Many people have found relief from acne by combining natural remedies with a balanced diet and stress management. Experiment to see what works best for your skin’s needs!

Is Salicylic Acid Safe for Daily Use on Acne-Prone Skin? - #14850

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