Treating Acne Without a Head (Under the Skin Bumps)

Acne without a head, often felt as hard bumps under the skin, particularly on the chin, is a common issue. You mentioned trying aloe vera gel, but as the staff reply indicated, aloe vera primarily offers soothing benefits and is not effective for treating this type of acne.

Why BHA (Salicylic Acid) Can Help

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), specifically Salicylic Acid, is highly effective for treating acne, including those under the skin. Unlike AHAs which primarily work on the skin surface, BHA is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores. This helps to:

• Dissolve clogged pores by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells and oil.
• Reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.
• Exfoliate the skin from within the pore.

This action makes BHA particularly suitable for the type of acne you described.

Recommended BHA for Gel Formulation

Creating a gel with BHA is a good approach. The staff recommended using Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Powder, Timed-Release) at 4%. While I don't have specific details on that exact product ID, other forms of Salicylic Acid are available that are suitable for leave-on gel formulations.

Consider using ActiveRelease™ Salicylic Acid (Powder, Water-Soluble). This is a powder form of Salicylic Acid that is water-soluble and designed for timed-release, making it gentler on the skin while providing continuous action. It can be easily incorporated into a gel base.

Standard Salicylic Acid (BHA) powder is also available, but it is not water-soluble and requires specific solvents like Propylene Glycol or Butylene Glycol to dissolve before adding to a formula.

Note that Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Liquid, Timed-Release, Wash-Off) is specifically for products that are rinsed off, such as cleansers, and is not suitable for a leave-on gel.

Gel Formulation Tips

When formulating a BHA gel, ensure the pH is appropriate for Salicylic Acid to be effective (typically between pH 3-4). Always follow the recommended usage rates for the specific type of Salicylic Acid you choose, adhering to regulatory limits (e.g., up to 2% for leave-on cosmetics in many regions).

Using a BHA gel consistently can help to exfoliate the pore lining, prevent future clogs, and reduce the bumps under the skin. If symptoms persist, consulting a dermatologist is always recommended.