About
Saliylic Acid
SS SM delivers a chemical exfoliating agent, causing the cells of the epidermis to shed more readily and open clogged pores. Exfoliation is recommended for daily use, as it helps to reduce the occurance of breakouts.
Along with dead skin cells, exfoliation also removes the dirt stuck deep inside the pores. Mature skin can benefit greatly from exfoliation, as layers of dead skin have accumulated over time.
Exfoliation also helps skin absorb serum and moisturizers better, as layers of dead skin cells and dirt are no longer blocking the way. The major challenges that come with exfoliation, especially with salicylic acid, are fomulation issues and irritation for conusmer with sensitive skin.
What is it? Saliylic Acid
UNIQUE FEATURES
FORMULATION READY
SS SM makes poorly-soluble salicylic acid easy to use in alcoholfree formulations. SS SM enables formulation rinse-off and leave-on formulations. The product is clear and can be used in a clear wash, gel, or serum.
SKIN FRIENDLY
Keeps the pH level at a skin-friendly range, which helps avoid dry skin and irritation.
VISIBLE RESULTS
After several applications, it reduces appearance of scars and blemishes, evens skin tone, and helps to brighten skin and prevent future breakouts.
HOW THE TECHNOLOGY HELPS YOU
SS SM is comprised of sub-micron spheres with a core and shell
Figure 1. The salicylic acid is encapsulated within the core, which is designed to slowly release the acid over time.
Figure 2: Results from a facial cleanser containing SS SM after one (A), two (B), and three (C) uses. Skin looks significantly smoother and healthier, and the blemish below the corner of the mouth is reduced.
ENHANCED
DEPOSITION
A study comparing the deposition of salicylic acid from a rinse-off containing SS SM vs. a control shows that SS SM enhanced the retention of salicylic acid on the skin (Figure 4).
SKIN
FRIENDLY pH
SS SM in a gel maintains a skin-friendly pH range of 4.5-5.5 on the skin, while free salicylic acid causes a drop in skin pH to 4.2, creating the potential for irritation.
ENHANCED
EXFOLIATION
SS SM provides a significant increase in exfoliation as compared to free (unecapsulated) salicylic acid from a wash application. In experimentation, it was found that SS SM provides 170% of the exfoliation achieved by free salicylic acid.
TECHNICAL
DATA
Appearance @ 20°C
Translucent liquid
Applications
Face/body washes, lotions, toners, and gels
Color
Amber
Odor
Amber
pH (1% Solution)
5.0 ± 1.0
Salicylic Acid Assay (HPLC) (wt.%)
10.0 ± 2.0
Shelf Life (months)
18
Usage Level (wt%)
Up to 5 (0.5% SA)
Storage (°C)
Closed container at 12-32°