Top 10 Best Products with Salicylic Acid in the Philippines 2020 (Cosrx, Mario Badescu, and More)

Salicylic acid is a natural compound found in fruits, vegetables, and willow bark. Aside from skincare products, you may have heard of its use in treating warts. But before we get to its benefits, let us give you the lowdown real quick. 

In skincare there are two common types of acids; AHA or Alpha Hydroxy Acid, which is water-soluble and has hydrating and plumping effects and BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acid, which is oil soluble and has drying properties.

Salicylic acid falls under the BHA category, has the ability to penetrate deep into the skin and dissolve dead skin cells and sebum from your pores. This makes it ideal in reducing blackheads and whiteheads as well as eliminating acne and blemishes due to its anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties. 

It is typically used to reduce blackheads, prevent breakouts, and minimize pores therefore it is ideal for those with oily skin and acne prone skin types. 

For this reason those with dry or sensitive skin should try to avoid using it as it could potentially strip their skin of moisture. Pregnant and lactating women should also avoid using salicylic acid as it is considered a blood thinner. 

Before we get down to our top picks, first determine the products that could contain salicylic acid as well as your skin concern so you know what is best suited for you. 

Ideally your skincare products should contain around 0.5 – 2% concentration of salicylic acid, which is effective for treating blackheads and acne, though some have noted how 1% is the golden standard. You might think that it does not sound like much, but acids should be used sparingly.

Remember that this acid is rather potent, so you should not aim for more in hopes of it being more effective. Anything higher must be consulted with a dermatologist or doctor, as it exceeds the spectrum of home use and over-the-counter classification and falls under professional use.

Just because salicylic acid is noted to be beneficial for unclogging your pores and removing deep-seated dirt, does not mean you should just slather it all over. Take note of your skin concern and then choose which product you would most benefit from.

If you want a product that you can apply all over your face then facial wash is ideal, as it can cover a lot of surface area and is useful in preventing acne. The inclusion of salicylic acid as an ingredient also ensures it cleans your pores and decongests your skin.

This is ideal if you want to remove all the built-up dirt and grime from your skin that has accumulated during the day without the use of harsh scrubbing. If you’re not yet sure about incorporating salicylic acid in your skin care routine, start with cleansers, as the concentration is not that potent and you can wash it off. 

A toner’s purpose is often misconstrued; there have been thoughts that it should be harsh and abrasive to really get the gunk out of your skin. If it isn’t tingling, it isn’t working is a common theme, but all it does is irritate your skin, dry it out, and make you more prone to breakouts.

Toner is ideal for removing excess sebum, controlling oil production and regulating your skin’s pH balance. Salicylic acid in toner is also good for preventing minor pimples from forming; think of it as a preventive measure to ensure you don’t get breakouts.

Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory and drying properties, which can speed up the healing process for acne and blemishes as it exfoliates your skin and promotes new cells. This is ideal if you have the occasional mild acne popping up every now and then.

Instead of picking at it, treat it with salicylic acid instead. It will remove your skin’s redness and dry it in about a day or two. 

Did you know that salicylic acid can be used to treat scalp concerns? As previously mentioned, salicylic acid can exfoliate dead skin cells and it does this by dissolving the layer of keratin and regulates skin cells.

This makes it useful for treating scalp conditions such dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, which is characterized by inflamed skin with a flaky and itchy scalp. 

If you have problem skin, you can use lotion infused with salicylic acid. This helps you soften rough bumps in your skin such as your elbows and knees. This is also an effective mild exfoliator if you want to get rid of blemishes or dark spots. 

If you have oily skin, then salicylic is a good match for you. Having salicylic acid in your moisturizer allows you to treat blocked pores and acne while still delivering a dose of hydration, so you don't dry out your skin and cause breakouts. 

Serums, on the other hand, reduce excess oil and prevent your face from getting shiny and removes blackheads - tightens your pores in the process.  

Say hello to reduced blackheads and brighter skin with salicylic acid. Here are our picks of products with salicylic acid for your face and body. 

Despite its holy grail status, salicylic does have its negative points. Here's how to ensure you're getting the most out of it without harming your skin. 

Yes, there is actually too much of a good thing. In this case prolonged use of salicylic acid can irritate your skin and lead to peeling and skin purging, which is when your skin breaks out because of the rapid exfoliation process.

If it is your first time using it, gradually introduce it to your skin. Use it for about 2-3 times a week and make sure to do a patch test first to know if your skin has any harsh or allergic reactions to the product. 

Salicylic is considered an active ingredient, which means it is responsible for producing the desired effect in a skin care product. This means it can have a rather potent effect on your skin.

If you mix it with other exfoliants such as retinol, which has drying properties, you’re likely to dry out your face because you are getting twice the amount or dosage. 

This is because salicylic acid is an exfoliant and makes you more prone to photosensitivity and potentially burns your skin when exposed to UV rays. Try to use salicylic acid at night.

If you can’t avoid it, let’s say you’ve got a rather nasty zit or breakout that you need to zap, then remember to use sunscreen. This will ensure your face is protected as you go about your day. 

Sure salicylic acid is all the rage right now, but let’s not forget to get back to the basics. Check out these products for a foolproof skincare routine. 

No need to search far and wide for the cure to your acne and blackhead problems. Simply incorporate salicylic acid into your skincare products. It is ideal for targeting acne as well as mild exfoliating your face to reveal a brighter and more even complexion. 

Author: Justine Cuizon