Benzoyl Peroxide VS Salicylic Acid: Which Is Better To Treat Acne?

Everyone wants to look and feel their best; those with clear skin are considered the standard of beauty we all try to strive for. Those seeking to achieve flawless skin, will need to turn to quality products to get their skin to a better state.

These days, a lot of skin products promise to treat skin concerns like blackheads and cystic acne; however, not all of these products can deliver noticeable results.  When it comes to acne treatment, two ingredients standout as front runners time and time again: Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid.  Learn how these two ingredients work for your skin type and what products to add to your skin care regime.

Salicylic Acid

This type of ingredient is known to exfoliate and remove excess dead skin cells (a contributing factor to acne). There are many benefits that Salicylic Acid has to offer; here are the main benefits that you will gain from usage.

Exfoliater

Salicylic Acid is mostly used in exfoliation products because it helps in the removal of dead cells on the skin. If you want to get rid of the pimples, then regular cleansing using this product will keep excess oil and bacteria at bay.

Decrease Pore Size

The size of the pores is decreased when anyone uses Salicylic Acid products regularly. Having large increases the chances of dirt, oil and bacteria accumulating on the surface of skin. Having these particles trapped on skin, then leads to the formation of acne.

Reduce Risks Of Infection

Those looking for products to reduce the occurrence of infections that lead to clusters of acne, should invest in this ingredient to neutralize bacteria from deep beneath dermal layers.

Although, there are many products within the market, it is recommended to use more naturally based products to reduce the risk of a reaction. One naturally based ingredient containing salicylic acid is, cucumbers.  Other popular ingredients that contain salicylic acid are: raspberries, tomatoes, and grapes.

Product Recommendations 

Cucumber Gel

If you want to get a clearer complexion, then you should incorporate cucumber gel into your regime. There are various products which contain cucumber in it or you can purchase pure natural cucumber gel for a more potent application.

Botanica Berry Revitalizing Facial Cleanser

This cleanser contains raspberry, strawberry, olive oil and many more natural products. You can get this luxury cleanser if you want to feel refreshed every morning when washing your face. It contains natural oils and extracts of fruits which contain salicylic acid in it. This face cleanser is free from any kind of parabens, SLS and mineral oils.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash With Salicylic Acid

This multi use product acts as a cleanser, conditioner and moisturizer for complexion. This face wash is effective in unclogging and minimizing the size of pores. It is key to not overuse; otherwise, this can irritate and dry out skin.

Burt's Bees Soap Bark And Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream

Those seeking a naturally effective cleanser should add this product to their arsenal. This tingling cleanser is composed of 99.9% naturally derived ingredients that is free of parabens and other harmful chemicals. The soap bark and witch hazel extract work to neutralize bacteria and eliminate acne causing agents with a refreshing menthol to cool skin.

Benzoyl Peroxide 

This is type of acid is  mostly used for fighting blackheads, whiteheads and pimples. It works by reducing the risk of spread and infection that bacteria can cause. Here are some of the main benefits of using Benzoyl Peroxide.

Works Quicker

Benzoyl peroxide works at a faster rate and that’s why it is considered effective for those that struggle with frequent bouts of acne, especially those that are prone to scarring.

Eliminate Bacterial Infection

Excess bacteria is one of the leading causes of the formation of acne. When bacteria becomes trapped within pores due to oil and comedogenic agents, acne is more likely to form. The removal of bacteria dramatically lessens the risk of developing acne.

Reduction In Oil

If you're prone to acne, chances are that you have oily or combination skin. Benzoyl peroxide works to eliminate excess oil that can become trapped within pores. Blackheads and whiteheads typically form when ingrown hairs become trapped by oil, bacteria and comedogenic agents.

This popular ingredient can be found in many over the counter and prescribed facial products. If you are seeking a more natural route, then tea tree oil is your best bet.

Product Recommendations

Dr. Strong Benzoyl Peroxide Wash 10% Acne Treatment

This powerfully potent treatment contains prescription strength benzoyl peroxide to quickly treat acne. This micro formulated product easily lathers to unclog pores while leaving skin feeling squeaky clean. The best part is that it does't include parabens which can lead to acne.

Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Facial Cleanser For Clear Skin 

This highly recommended cleanser is formulated specifically for oily and combination skin. It contains prescription strength benzoyl peroxide without stripping or irritating skin. Its creamy consistency easily lathers to clean and moisturize skin while fighting acne.

Acne Treatment Cream, Benzoyl Peroxide 7.5%

This highly potent product is packed with benzoyl peroxide as a core ingredient and anti-inflammatory ingredients like tea tree oil and witch hazel. These naturally based ingredients are known to minimize the appearance of pores while neutralizing bacteria.

These are some of the many products than can help in getting rid of acne. When it comes to differentiating between Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide, either option is perfect for those struggling with oily skin and acne.