Salicylic acid is the main ingredient in Salicylic facials, a type of facial commonly used to treat skin and hair conditions such as dandruff, acne, warts and psoriasis. It works by penetrating the skin and causing stimulation, which encourages the skin to renew itself, and shed old skin. It can be very harsh on the skin, however, so diluting the acid is recommended to prevent damage or irritation.
Purchase salicylic acid, which is available from most chemists. Look for a 2 percent solution, which is water-based.
Pour ¼ of a cup of water into a medium-sized, stainless steel bowl.
Add ¼ of a cup of salicylic acid.
Mix slowly, until the fluids have blended.
Add another ¼ cup of salicylic acid.
Stir again, ensuring the two fluids mix.
Tip
To dilute the mixture down to a 0.5 percent solution, add 1/4 of a cup of water at the end of the process.
Always complete a test patch on a piece of skin and wait 48 hours before using a salicylic peel, to prevent irritation or skin damage.
References
- “The Woman's Body Bible Special Edition”; Adrianna Bocanegra; 2010.
- “Color Atlas of Cosmetic Dermatology: A Medical and Surgical Reference”; Marc Avram, Sandy Tsao, Zeina Tannous, and Matthew Avram; 2007.
Writer Bio
Elle Blake has been writing since 2006. Her articles regularly appear in "All Women Stalk," "Parenting," "Education Plus" and "Glamour." She has a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in early childhood studies and primary education and a Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in animal welfare and behavior, both from the University of Warwick. She is currently studying towards NCTJ Certificate in Magazine and Journalism.