Salicylic acid cleanser or serum for blackheads?

What is the difference?

Choose the cleanser if you want acne treatment within your washing routine. A cleanser combines washing and treatment in one step, which is one fewer bottle auditioning for the bathroom shelf. Consider a leave on product if you need treatment beyond face washing. Here, serum means a leave on salicylic acid treatment, not a specific formula with proven superiority over a cleanser.16

How should you use it?

1. 1Read the label first. Use the stated amount and frequency, and do not increase either to chase faster results.
2. 2For a cleanser, wet your face with lukewarm water. Massage gently with your fingertips rather than a brush or washcloth.
3. 3Follow any contact time printed on the product. Some medicated cleansers are used for one to two minutes before rinsing; do not give every wash the same timer.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. If using a leave on treatment instead, follow its application directions rather than rinsing it like a cleanser.
5. 5Apply moisturizer after cleansing. Wear sunscreen outdoors and use protective clothing, because salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity.

Morning and evening are the usual times for face washing, but that does not mean using salicylic acid twice daily. The treatment's own directions control its frequency.157

Who should be careful?

Sensitive skin can be irritated by acid cleansers. A creamy, fragrance free cleanser is an option when a drying wash is the problem, but changing texture does not remove the need to check the active ingredients. If mild irritation develops, stop the product or use it less often. Do not apply salicylic acid to irritated, infected or reddened skin.1367

Do not stack a salicylic acid wash and serum, or combine salicylic acid with benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids or other medicated treatments on the same area, unless your doctor directs it. Avoid abrasive cleansers and drying exfoliating products. If you use prescription acne medicine, discuss the combination first. If pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss salicylic acid with your doctor before use.3

What should you expect, and when should you get help?

Benefit can take time. Do not scrub or squeeze blackheads while waiting: squeezing can push material deeper and cause irritation or scarring. Seek prompt medical advice for burning, crusting, peeling or an allergic reaction. Persistent or bothersome dryness also deserves advice. If nonprescription treatment is not helping, or blackheads are deeply embedded, a dermatologist can assess treatment or professional removal.25