Using BHA at home
Dosage efficacy
When using a BHA such as salicylic acid at home as a treatment or for maintenance for the skin, the ideal dosage is between 0.5-2% for professional products. Anything lower than that is ineffective. Salicylic acid for home care use typically comes in the form of a serum. The serum can be combined in a moisturizer. It can also come in the form of an exfoliant or a cleanser.
If you are using a salicylic-based serum it is important to combine it with a moisturizer. More specifically, a moisturizer that contains hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Acneic skin types should go for an oil-free moisturizer.
On the other hand, if you have a sensitive skin type or rosacea, you would benefit from a soothing moisturizer that has calming ingredients such as aloe vera.
Notes for BHA Home Use
If you are using salicylic acid serum, it is important to let it sit until it is fully absorbed before applying a moisturizer. If you have sensitive skin or if you are new to using acids on your skin, it is recommended that you apply 2-3 times a week in the evening after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Do this for two weeks or until you notice that the sensitizing effects have reached a plateau. From there you can start using it on daily basis and even up to twice a day.
Avoid using salicylic acid serum around the eye area as it can be drying.
Product recommendations for cleansing
If you are looking to introduce salicylic acid into your routine in a cleanser, try the Purifying Gel Cleanser. It is good for oily skin, congested skin, and for acne maintenance.
However, if you have severe acne or inflamed acne, try the Beta Clarity Cleanser. This one is also great for use on back acne.
If you have Rosacea or sensitive skin, try the Hydra-Bright Polishing Cleanser because you can use it as an exfoliant but also as a mild foaming cleanser on a daily basis.
Product recommendations for moisturizing
If you are using salicylic acid at home, you should be moisturizing as well.
For combo to oily skin types, we recommend an oil free moisturizer. Very oily to acne prone skin should try the Oil Control Emulsion. Keeping the skin hydrated when using salicylic acid is very important. Both of these moisturizers contain effective dosages of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid attracts and maintains hydration to hold 1000 times its weight in water.
On the other hand, if your are using BHA to treat sensitive skin, we recommend the Phyto Calm Aloe Hydrator. As the name implies, the aloe vera improves skin hydration and delivers strong anti-inflammatory benefits.
Peace, Love, and Great Skin!
Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885 7108
dermica.ca