Benzoyl Peroxide vs Salicylic Acid for Acne: Which is the better Ingredient?

Introduction

Acne is a common skin problem affecting people of all skin types and ages. Two key ingredients used in treating mild to moderate acne are benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Many drugstore and exclusive skincare products for acne-prone skin contain one of these ingredients. 

What is Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide is a medication available as a skin cream, gel, or lotion, primarily used to treat mild to moderate acne. As a compound of benzoyl and peroxide, it works by reducing acne-causing bacteria, causing the skin to dry and peel, which helps treat acne. Benzoyl peroxide can also help decrease symptoms caused by rosacea, such as pimples and bumps on the face. It is typically available in cleansers or topical gels.

Benzoyl Peroxide Benefits

Some key benefits of benzoyl peroxide include treating acne and rosacea by decreasing skin inflammation and preventing the growth of bacteria on the skin.

Benzoyl Peroxide Uses

The primary use of benzoyl peroxide is to treat acne. It is affordable, available over the counter, and used in various skincare products, including cleansers, gels, and lotions.

What is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid, similar to benzoyl peroxide, is used to treat acne but is generally more effective. As part of the salicylates drug class, it is used in serums, spot treatments, and cleansers. Salicylic acid helps the skin shed dead cells, reduces redness, inflammation, and swelling, thereby decreasing the formation and spread of acne.

Salicylic Acid Benefits

Salicylic acid is one of the best treatments for acne scars and marks. It prevents acne formation, exfoliates the skin, removes acne-causing bacteria, and helps fade dark spots. Additionally, it evens out skin tone and treats discoloration caused by acne.

Salicylic Acid Uses

Salicylic acid is used to treat various skin disorders, including acne, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. It also helps remove corns, warts, and calluses, and gently exfoliates the skin to keep it clean and free of blackheads and whiteheads. 

Benzoyl Peroxide vs. Salicylic Acid?

While benzoyl peroxide is readily available and affordable, it may not be suitable for sensitive skin. It can cause sunburn, increase sun sensitivity, bleach facial hair and clothing, and may lead to skin burning, itching, and inflammation. Additionally, benzoyl peroxide has been associated with the presence of benzene, a potent carcinogen.

On the other hand, salicylic acid is milder and suitable for sensitive skin. It exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, reduces blemishes without drying out the skin, and helps clear and prevent acne blemishes.

Best Products with Salicylic Acid

One of the best products with salicylic acid is Zitlox Salicylic Acne Gel. This formulation combines salicylic acid, bacillus ferment, and Melaleuca tea tree oil as an alternative to benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid loosens dead cells and keeps the skin free of buildup, providing a brighter complexion. It helps unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey to beat acne and acne scars with salicylic acid-based skincare.

If you want to start using salicylic acid in your skincare routine to get rid of acne, Zitlox Salicylic Acne Gel is a great new acne spot treatment by Sonage. It combines salicylic acid with postbiotics and melaleuca tea tree oil to help clear away blemishes and help skin heal. It also serves to prevent new breakouts from developing. Since salicylic acid has fewer side effects compared to benzoyl peroxide, it gives you a gentler way to clear your skin and get it back into good health. By clearing your complexion, through this innovative natural spot treatment, you’ll feel more confident in putting your best face forward. 

READ MORE:

• How to Get Rid of Acne Scars
• Acne Talk: Face Mapping and How It Can Prevent Breakouts