Can Salicylic Acid Cleanser and Niacinamide be used together?
When it comes to layering ingredients in skincare, it’s often important to remember that an unbalanced pH level in the formula and active ingredient mix can cause more harm than one might think.
Fortunately, niacinamide is completely safe to use with salicylic acid due to its hydrating properties. This allows the ingredient to absorb moisture from the surrounding air and other product formulas and lock it into the layers of the skin. Another unique benefit of niacinamide is that it can regulate the skin’s sebum production, making it a very effective ingredient for those prone to acne. Since salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used salicylates in blemish-fighting products, it makes perfect sense to combine these two powerful ingredients together.
As for the focus of today’s blog post, we’re going to be looking at specific product formulas and how they determine how they benefit your skin. So, with that in mind, let’s explore whether it’s okay to use a salicylic acid cleanser and niacinamide together.
Can Niacinamide be used with a Salicylic Acid Cleanser?
Sure, salicylic acid is one of the most effective ingredients in skincare, but it does have some side effects, such as dryness and irritation. This is usually the result of first introducing an active amount of BHA into your routine. If salicylic acid is a completely new ingredient for you, using a cleanser is the best place to start.
One of the main benefits of choosing a cleanser is the introduction of a powerful ingredient like salicylic acid. This is because the percentage of this ingredient, found in products that don’t stay on the skin for long, such as face washes and cleansers, is usually lower. Cleansing formulas rich in salicylic acid remove the buildup of dead skin cells, bacteria, and impurities. This not only cleanses the skin thoroughly, but also ensures that all other products, including those rich in niacinamide, are absorbed into the skin quickly and effectively.
Can a salicylic acid cleanser and serum be used together?
Yes, you can, but it depends a lot on the formula of the serum. As I said before, salicylic acid is a highly effective ingredient in skincare, which is why it’s best not to use it with other acids, such as the popular AHAs glycolic and lactic acid. Combining a salicylic acid cleanser with a serum rich in hyaluronic acid can moisturize the skin and eliminate any signs of dryness caused by the BHA. Using this product combination can be beneficial for people with oily, acne-prone skin. For those with fairly dry skin, this is the best way to get the benefits without irritating your skin.
Which comes first, salicylic acid or niacinamide?
When applying salicylic acid and niacinamide in layers, be sure to give your skin plenty of time between applications. This is considered an important part of your skin care routine because the pH of your skin needs to be as neutral as possible. Since salicylic acid is acidic, I recommend applying it to your skin first, waiting 10-15 minutes, and then applying niacinamide. Niacinamide works best in a pH-neutral environment. So if you leave enough time between applications of salicylic acid, you will get the best results for your skin. If you want to learn more about how to use niacinamide and salicylic acid together, read our dedicated blog post.
Which works better for acne, niacinamide or salicylic acid?
Both are very effective in the blemish-busting process. Fortunately, niacinamide and salicylic acid can be used together if used correctly.
Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deep into the pores and underlying layers of the skin. This prevents excess sebum, bacteria, and other impurities from accumulating, which can lead to blemishes, acne, and breakouts. It also chemically exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells from it, leaving you with clear, healthy-looking skin.
Due to its moisturizing properties, niacinamide can boost the hydration levels in your skin. This ensures that the skin barrier is fully functional and can protect itself from daily aggressions that damage the skin. This clever moisturizer also regulates the balance of the skin’s surface by maintaining sebum production.
Can a cleanser with salicylic acid be used daily?
This depends largely on your skin type and how well your skin tolerates it. If you have oily and blemish-prone skin, using a cleanser with salicylic acid twice a day can ensure thorough cleansing and removal of blemish-causing impurities.
As with all skincare products, it’s best to do a 24-hour patch test before applying a product all over your face, especially one with a new ingredient. If you still have concerns or questions, you can also consult a doctor or dermatologist to make sure that daily use of salicylic acid is right for you and your skin.
Can you use a moisturizer after using salicylic acid?
Yes, you actually can! In fact, applying a moisturizer to your skin after using salicylic acid can restore the natural protective barrier, replenish moisture, and balance oils. The beauty of moisturizers is that they help hydrate the skin and create a physical barrier on the outer surface, keeping harmful particles away from the skin while sealing in all the active ingredients underneath.
Should I use Niacinamide in the morning or at night?
You can use Niacinamide in the morning and at night. Using it twice a day ensures that your skin is continuously moisturized, thus protecting itself from free radicals such as pollution, UV rays, and other environmental aggressors. When your skin barrier is filled with the right amount of water and oil, you will also find that any other products you apply to your face will penetrate quickly because the skin is like a wet sponge and is very absorbent.
I hope that today I have addressed some of your questions about using a salicylic acid cleanser with Niacinamide. Don’t forget to find me on Instagram if you have any questions!
