Salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which is better for acne?

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are two popular ingredients in skincare, available in many over-the-counter products, including cleansers, serums, and toners.

Both ingredients help exfoliate the skin and fight acne, but they have different properties and benefits.

This article will help you understand which ingredient to choose, depending on your skin type and concerns, by examining the benefits and disadvantages of each.

What is glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It is found naturally in sugar cane, but it can also be made in a lab. Glycolic acid is a small molecule, so it can easily pass through your skin barrier.

When applied topically, glycolic acid exfoliates your skin while retaining moisture. It works by removing dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin. This helps promote the growth of new skin.

In addition, glycolic acid reduces inflammation and protects against ultraviolet B radiation. The acid also acts against bacteria that cause acne breakouts.

Glycolic acid is primarily used to even out skin tone and reduce signs of skin aging. It may also help:

Reduce hyperpigmentation or dark skin spots, including sun damage and acne scars;

To give the face a glow;

Helps reduce pores;

Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles;

Increases skin elasticity;

Manages acne outbreaks;

Because of these benefits, glycolic acid is often recommended for skin types such as those prone to hyperpigmentation, aging, and acne.

Although glycolic acid is generally considered safe, it can cause irritation in some people. This is more likely to happen if a product has a high concentration of glycolic acid, around 10 percent or more.

Glycolic acid can also increase sun sensitivity. It is important to use sunscreen while using glycolic acid to avoid sunburn.

What is salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). It is found naturally in willow bark and green leaves. It can also be artificially synthesized in a laboratory.

Like glycolic acid, salicylic acid has an exfoliating effect on the skin. It can also remove excess sebum (oil) and reduce sebum production, making it a great ingredient for unclogging pores. Plus, salicylic acid has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Salicylic acid is primarily used to prevent and treat acne. It may also help:

Controls oiliness on the skin;

Reduce the appearance of blackheads;

Reduce hyperpigmentation.

This ingredient is best for the following skin types, such as acne-prone, oily skin, and skin prone to hyperpigmentation.

You can find salicylic acid in many over-the-counter products, but it's not for everyone. It can cause dryness or irritation.

In rare cases, salicylic acid can cause a severe allergic reaction.

Which is best for acne?

If you have acne, both ingredients can have a beneficial effect on your skin. But overall, salicylic acid is the better choice.

Unlike glycolic acid, salicylic acid reduces oil in the skin. This is important because oil can clog pores, which increases the risk of acne breakouts. Excess oil also encourages the growth of bacteria that can cause acne.

The exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects of salicylic acid are also beneficial for acne-prone skin. /Telegraph/