Salicylic acid is primarily known for its effectiveness in treating acne rather than removing acne scars. It’s a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, and helps reduce acne by removing dead skin cells and excess oil. While it can help improve the overall appearance of the skin and diminish the visibility of acne scars over time, its primary function is to prevent and treat acne breakouts.
Acne scars are caused by inflammation and damage to the skin’s collagen during the healing process of acne lesions. Salicylic acid does not directly address these scars, which can range from shallow depressions to deeper, more pronounced marks. For treating acne scars, other ingredients and treatments such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), vitamin C, microneedling, chemical peels, and laser therapy are often more effective.
In summary, while salicylic acid can contribute to improving the appearance of acne scars by promoting skin renewal and preventing new breakouts, it’s not typically considered the primary solution for removing existing acne scars. Consulting with a dermatologist can provide personalized recommendations for addressing acne scars based on individual skin type and severity of scarring.