When combining skincare ingredients, the general rule is to consider the pH levels of the products and how the active ingredients interact. An imbalance can cause more harm to your skin than you might expect.
Fortunately, Niacinamide is completely safe to use with Salicylic Acid due to its humectant properties. This ingredient helps draw moisture from the surrounding environment and other products, locking it into the skin’s layers. Another benefit of Niacinamide is its ability to regulate sebum production, making it highly effective for acne-prone skin. With Salicylic Acid being one of the most popular BHAs in acne-fighting products, pairing these two powerhouse ingredients is a great choice.
Today, we’ll delve into the formulations of specific products and how they affect your skin. Let’s explore whether using a Salicylic Acid cleanser and Niacinamide together is effective.
Can You Use Niacinamide with a Salicylic Acid Cleanser?
Absolutely! Although Salicylic Acid is a potent skincare ingredient, it can cause dryness and irritation when you first introduce it to your routine. If you’re new to using Salicylic Acid, starting with a cleanser is an excellent way to ease in, as these products typically have lower concentrations and don’t stay on the skin for long.
A Salicylic Acid cleanser helps remove dead skin cells, bacteria, and impurities, keeping your skin clean and prepped. This also ensures that other products, like those containing Niacinamide, can penetrate the skin quickly and effectively.
Can You Use a Salicylic Acid Cleanser with a Serum?
Yes, you can, but this depends on the serum’s formula. Since Salicylic Acid is a strong ingredient, it’s best to avoid pairing it with other acids, such as Glycolic or Lactic Acid. However, combining a Salicylic Acid cleanser with a serum enriched with Hyaluronic Acid provides hydration and helps counteract any dryness caused by the BHA.
This combination is beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types. For those with drier skin, it allows you to enjoy the benefits of Salicylic Acid without unwanted irritation.
Which Comes First, Salicylic Acid or Niacinamide?
When layering Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide, it’s important to give your skin enough time between applications. This is to maintain the skin’s pH balance. As Salicylic Acid is acidic, apply it first and wait 10-15 minutes before following with Niacinamide. Niacinamide works best in a neutral pH environment, so allowing time between applications ensures optimal results for your skin.
If you want to learn more about how to use Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid together, check out our dedicated blog post.
