So I've recently read that the amount of time suggested for a salicylic acid facewash (1-3 minutes) is not nearly enough time for it to do anything, rendering it pointless. I'm curious, does anyone know how long I'd have to leave on a 2% salicylic acid facewash for it to actually do what is intended? Or is it just a scam? Would it have to be all day?
I've personally never tried any SA or BP face washes, I usually just use the actual thing and leave it on all day (I use the regimen now). If it is a face wash, I can't imagine that you should be leaving it on your skin. You should be able to apply it and then rinse your face and wash it right off. If you are looking for a treatment to really soak into your skin and stay there, i would just use a benzoyl peroxide topical. I believe those face washes are designed for the product to soak into your skin and at least stay there part of the day, but in my opinion they do not have anything close to the same effect as regular topical treatments.