Salicylic Acid in Body Lotion
How to use salicylic acid body lotion to smooth rough skin, clear body breakouts, and address keratosis pilaris.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and gently exfoliating the skin's surface — and, uniquely among exfoliating acids, it is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate into pores and follicles to clear congestion from the inside out.
Applied to the body in lotion form, salicylic acid is particularly effective for keratosis pilaris (the rough, bumpy 'chicken skin' texture many people have on their upper arms and thighs), body breakouts on the back and chest, rough patches on elbows and knees, and the gradual smoothing of aging or sun-damaged skin.
Use with some caution on mature or very dry skin, as regular exfoliation can cause dryness — pair with a good moisturizer and start with every-other-day application before using daily. Avoid use on broken or actively irritated skin, and use sun protection on exposed areas, as exfoliated skin is more sun-sensitive.
Ingredients
- Salicylic acid body lotion (see Amazon link below)
How to Use
- 1Apply salicylic acid body lotion to clean, dry skin.
- 2Massage in using circular motions, focusing on rough or affected areas.
- 3Start with every-other-day use and increase to daily once your skin adjusts.
- 4Follow with a moisturizer on very dry areas.
- 5Apply sun protection to treated areas that will be exposed to sunlight.
- 6Avoid use on broken, cracked, or actively irritated skin.