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Beauty: How to nix

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While pimples and acne are skin concerns we’d hoped to leave behind in our teens, the truth is the likelihood of breakouts extends well into our 20s and 30s. And although hormones are typically not to blame as we age, there are many factors – including diet and poor hygiene habits – that are still leaving us prone to blemishes.

If your case is severe, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist before treating your skin. However, there are a tonne of products that are readily available to nix your breakouts for good – specifically, those that contain salicylic acid.

Of course, both lactic and glycolic acids work wonders to exfoliate the upper layer of the skin, but salicylic acids actually penetrate your skin and unclog your pores, eliminating any excess dirt or sebum that may be causing your breakouts. Here, we break down all you need to know…

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WHAT IS SALICYLIC ACID? ‘Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxyl acid that works to dissolve skin cells at the skin’s top layer,’ says Mario Badescu’s head aesthetician, Elena Arboleda. While the acid is often used as an anti-ageing ingredient, its most common use is to target breakouts.

WHAT DOES IT DO FOR SKIN? According to Elena, ‘the exfoliating properties of salicylic acid can help prevent accumulation of dead skin cells and impurities at the skin’s surface that can clog pores and cause dullness’. In order to flush out impurities, salicylic acids work to loosen – and even break apart – the connection between your skin cells. This type of acid also encourages clarity and brightness.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU USE A SALICYLIC ACID? While the frequency of application will vary from product to product, most will recommend use twice daily. But always be sure to read the product label and apply it as instructed.

WHEN SHOULD I APPLY IT? Although many products containing salicylic acid recommend you apply them in the morning and night, you should always be cautious when using an ingredient like this in the day. ‘Salicylic acid can make the skin more sensitive to the sun,’ says Elena. If your skin is

Dua Lipa is just like the rest of us! Spot cream at the ready – always!

alreadysensitivetothesun,she recommendslimitingyourapplication totheevening.Butifyouneedtoapply asalicylicacidduringtheday,besureto followitupwithplentyofsunscreen.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR SALICYLIC ACIDS TO WORK? Whiletheefficacyofasalicylicacidwill varydependingonaperson’sskin,Elena saysyoucouldpotentiallysee improvementstoyourskinovernight.

WILL A SALICYLIC ACID IRRITATE MY SKIN? Likemanyacids,overuse–oruseinhigh percentages–canleaveyourskinprone to irritation and redness. But there are other variables that could come into play if your skin reacts negatively after use. ‘The percentage of salicylic acid available for purchase without a prescription is tolerated very well by most people,’ says Elena. But if, for example, your salicylic product is formulated with lots of other active ingredients that feel too stripping on your skin, then cease use.

Star Style BEAUTY Product picks

There are many salicylic acid-based cleansers and toners on the market that work to both clear your skin of congestion and calm the redness or irritation that often comes with breakouts.

If you’re wanting to maintain a healthy skin balance, introduce a daily cleanser and toner with this hero ingredient. TRY...

ACNE FACIAL CLEANSER $23 MARIO BADESCU MECCA.COM.AU If your breakout requires a little overnight treatment, you can’t go past a salicylic acid-rich lotion or gel. TRY... .

DRYING LOTION $24 MARIO BADESCU MECCA.COM.AU

2% SALICYLIC TONER $29 CLEAR SKINCARE PRICELINE.COM.AU

If you’re a little more prone to acne, you may want to add a salicylic acid-based exfoliant to your regimen. TRY...

ALPHA BETA EXTRA STRENGTH DAILY PEEL ( PACK OF 30 ) $129 DR DENNIS GROSS MECCA.COM.AU SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA LIQUID EXFOLIANT $36 PAULA’S CHOICE PAULASCHOICE.COM.AU

SALICYLIC ACID 2% SOLUTION $9.30 THE ORDINARY ADOREBEAUTY.COM.AU CLEAR SKIN BLEMISH CONTROL GEL $19.95 ALPHA-H ALPHA-H.COM

CLARIFYING MICRODART PATCH $39.99 ZITSTICKA PRICELINE.COM.AU NEW CULT FAVE!

COMPILED BY ELISE WILSON & HARPER’S BAZAAR AU GO PRO TREATMENT Dr McCaffery’s Acne Treatment WHERE Clear Skincare Clinics, Australia WHAT IS IT If your skin just isn’t cooperating, start a professional course of treatments like this. Performed using a small probe (no bigger than an eyelash, don’t worry!), it’s inserted into each individual pimple or acne lesion. Heat is applied and this permanently destroys the sebaceous gland, which is responsible for oil production in the skin. The result means acne, pimples, whiteheads and blackheads are stopped in their tracks. You’ll feel a tiny zap each time, but the sensation is pretty mild. For best pimple-free results, book every two to four weeks – and depending on the severity, anywhere from six to 12 treatments might be needed. COST $129

Star Style BEAUTY

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