What does beta hydroxy acid do for skin?

What does BHA do for skin?

Salicylic acid exfoliates by removing dead skin. It can improve the texture and color of sun damaged skin, and it reaches oil filled hair follicle openings, where it helps with acne. For acne, it helps unclog pores and is used for whiteheads and pimples.12

What is BHA in skincare?

In skin care, BHA usually refers to salicylic acid. It comes in several strengths and formats, including pads, creams, gels, shampoos and patches. Check the directions for the specific product you have; the acronym alone does not tell you how to apply it or how often to use it.13

Is BHA good for oily skin?

It can be useful when oily skin comes with clogged pores, whiteheads or pimples. Acne can start when excess oil and dead skin block hair follicles, and salicylic acid helps unclog pores. Oily or greasy skin can be one sign of acne, but oiliness alone does not mean you need an acne treatment. A noncomedogenic skin care or makeup product means it will not clog pores, which is a long word for a short instruction.24

How to use a BHA product

1. 1Read the package or prescription directions, including how to prepare your skin and apply the product.
2. 2When using it for the first time, apply a small amount to one or two small areas you want to treat for three days.
3. 3If no reaction or discomfort occurs, use the product as directed. Apply it only to affected areas, not large areas of skin unless a doctor tells you to.
4. 4Keep it off broken, red, swollen, irritated or infected skin. Do not cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing unless a doctor says to.

How often can you use BHA?

There is no single schedule for every topical salicylic acid product. Depending on the condition and product, directions can range from several times a day to several times a week. Follow the package or prescription label. If you are using it for acne and your skin becomes dry or irritated, use it less often at first, then increase gradually as your skin adjusts.3

What should you expect?

Dryness or irritation can happen early, and acne can look worse during the first few days as your skin adjusts. Full benefit from topical salicylic acid can take several weeks or longer. With acne treatment, it can take at least six to eight weeks to see fewer breakouts.23

Can BHA irritate skin?

Yes. Topical salicylic acid can cause skin irritation or stinging. It can be less irritating than alpha hydroxy acid products, but irritation is still possible. If irritation is severe or does not go away, contact a doctor.13

Who should take extra care with BHA?

Do not use salicylic acid on the same treated skin with abrasive cleansers, skin care products containing alcohol, or topical benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, sulfur or tretinoin unless a doctor tells you to; the combination can cause significant irritation. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about other medicines you take. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding, tell your doctor before using topical salicylic acid.3

When should you get medical advice?

Stop using salicylic acid and get urgent medical help for hives, throat tightness, difficulty breathing, feeling faint or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or eyes. For acne, see a doctor if self treatment is not helping, spots are deep or painful, acne is causing scars, or it is affecting your mental health.34