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Where to Add Salicylic Acid in Your Skincare Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide
Skin Care

Where to Add Salicylic Acid in Your Skincare Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide

11 June 2025



Where in My Skincare Routine Do I Need to Add Salicylic Acid?

When you start using salicylic acid in your skincare routine, figuring out where to place it can feel a bit overwhelming.

But once you understand its role and how it works with other products, it becomes much easier. Let’s break it down!

What Is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that works wonders for those dealing with acne, blackheads, or general breakouts.

Unlike alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, which work on the surface of the skin, salicylic acid penetrates deep into the pores due to its small molecular size.

This allows it to break down excess oil and debris inside the pores, which can cause acne.

It’s also oil-soluble, meaning it can effectively clear out oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells from deep within your pores while also helping with surface-level exfoliation.

This makes it perfect for acne-prone skin.

Where Does Salicylic Acid Go in Your Routine?

When incorporating salicylic acid into your routine, remember the general skincare rule: apply products in order of their consistency, from thinnest to thickest.

So, whether you’re using a cleanser, toner, or serum, it all depends on the product formulation.

1. Salicylic Acid in Cleansers

Salicylic acid is commonly found in cleansers, which you apply first in your routine. A salicylic acid cleanser will help rid your skin of dirt, oil, and makeup while starting the exfoliation process.

You’d use this right after removing makeup or any other residue on your skin.

2. Salicylic Acid in Toners

Toners are often the next step after cleansing. If you’re using a salicylic acid toner, apply it directly after cleansing.

These toners work by sloughing off dead skin cells, preventing clogged pores, and helping reduce acne.

A salicylic acid toner is effective because it stays on your skin for a shorter period, meaning it’s less likely to cause irritation.

Since toners are thinner and more lightweight than serums or moisturizers, they should be used earlier in your routine.

3. Salicylic Acid Serums

Serums are typically more potent than toners and are meant to address more specific skincare concerns, such as acne.

Once your skin has built a tolerance to salicylic acid (which may take a few weeks), you can start using salicylic acid serum.

However, use it sparingly, especially at first, as serums are stronger and stay on your skin for longer periods.

Start by using the serum once or twice a week in the evening, and increase the frequency as your skin gets used to it.

What Else Can You Use with Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid works well in combination with several other ingredients, but not all should be layered together. Here are some combinations that work well:

Ingredients That Pair Well with Salicylic Acid:

Niacinamide: Niacinamide is great for calming the skin and regulating oil production, which is especially helpful for acne-prone skin.

You can use salicylic acid first to exfoliate and then apply niacinamide to help soothe and balance your skin.

Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin.

Applying salicylic acid first clears your pores, and then you can lock in moisture with hyaluronic acid for smooth, hydrated skin.

Peptides and Ceramides: These ingredients help restore the skin barrier, which can sometimes be compromised by exfoliating acids like salicylic acid.

So, adding them into your routine can help keep your skin healthy and balanced.

Ingredients to Use Sparingly with Salicylic Acid:

Retinol: Retinol and salicylic acid both promote skin cell turnover, but using them together may lead to irritation or dryness.

It’s best to use retinol at night on alternate days from salicylic acid or on separate days entirely.

Glycolic Acid: Like salicylic acid, glycolic acid is also an exfoliant, but it works at the skin’s surface.

Using both at the same time can be too harsh for your skin, so alternate their use—salicylic acid in the morning, glycolic acid at night, for example.

Which Goes First: Salicylic Acid or Hyaluronic Acid?

For best results, you should apply salicylic acid first, followed by hyaluronic acid. Salicylic acid helps remove dead skin cells and clear out the pores, revealing fresh skin.

This makes your skin more absorbent and primed for other products. Hyaluronic acid can then be applied to hydrate and lock moisture in, keeping your skin smooth and balanced.

This combination is perfect for acne-prone skin because it exfoliates and hydrates simultaneously, helping maintain a healthy moisture balance while treating blemishes.

How to Introduce Salicylic Acid to Your Routine

If you’re new to salicylic acid, it’s best to start slow. Begin with a salicylic acid toner or a gentle cleanser once or twice a week to let your skin get accustomed to it.

Over time, you can increase the frequency as your skin builds tolerance.

Once your skin is used to salicylic acid, you can begin using more concentrated products, such as serums or spot treatments, which can be applied as needed to target specific areas.

Remember to apply salicylic acid products at night initially, as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always apply sunscreen during the day, especially when using acids in your routine.

Should I Use Salicylic Acid Before Niacinamide?

Yes, you can use salicylic acid before niacinamide in your routine. Niacinamide helps reduce inflammation and balances oil production, which is ideal for acne-prone skin.

Salicylic acid will clear out the pores and exfoliate the skin, while niacinamide will calm and soothe it, helping with any redness or irritation.

Final Thoughts

Integrating salicylic acid into your skincare routine can significantly improve your skin’s clarity and texture, especially if you have acne-prone skin.

The key is to introduce it slowly, layering it correctly with other ingredients, and ensuring you’re using it in the proper order.

Be patient and allow your skin time to adjust, and always remember to protect your skin from the sun!

Feel free to reach out if you need more advice on how to make salicylic acid work for you. Let me know if you need help refining your routine!

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.
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