We just revealed our new benzoyl peroxide treatment, Zit Fix, and we want to make sure you know how to use it! You might be wondering how it differs from our salicylic acid spot treatment, Spot Doctor.
Their active ingredients have the same goal – keeping your skin clear – but they don’t get there in the same way.
Salicylic acid versus Benzoyl Peroxide
Salicylic acid is a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that penetrates the skin and dissolves oil, dirt and irritants before they can clog pores and cause breakouts. This ingredient works great under the skin and prevents breakouts as well as stops current ones. .
Benzoyl peroxide works by killing the acne-causing bacteria. It has antibacterial properties, while salicylic acid primarily targets clogged skin. BP is great to use before and after breakouts on the surface that need to be extracted. Apply as soon as you feel something popping up and also post-extraction to kill bacteria left behind.
This ingredient is more likely to cause skin irritation than salicylic acid, so start slowly, use only in the areas needed and allow it to dry completely before moving to the next skincare step to avoid having the product travel.
What should I use!?
Salicylic acid can be used on acne that’s caused by clogged pores – think whiteheads and blackheads. This ingredient is also great for cysts and nodular-type acne that is not meant to be extracted.
Benzoyl peroxide is great for inflamed breakouts caused by bacteria. Papules and pustules are good targets for a benzoyl peroxide treatment like Zit Fix. Zit fix also includes sulfur which is helpful to dry out the area and kill any other bacteria that was left behind.
Our tips
Using these products together can cause skin irritation, so you’re better off just picking one to fight your current breakout. Stop use if you see any dryness or flaking, and always wear SPF after applying a spot treatment.