Being oil soluble, salicylic acid can penetrate deeper into the skin layers, but it can also dehydrate and irritate skin. Niacinamide, on the other hand, reduces inflammation and boosts skin's natural moisturization. Niacinamide is a very accommodating ingredient.

Is niacinamide better than salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid works more effectively when layered with niacinamide. Niacinamide is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation and helps with acne. It's always good to use salicylic acid in a cleanser or a face mask and layer it with niacinamide.

Should I use niacinamide or salicylic acid first?

It is considered the best idea to apply niacinamide before salicylic acid. This is because the humectant traits of niacinamide ensure the natural skin barrier contains the correct levels of water.

Can you use salicylic acid and niacinamide together?

While it's safe to use salicylic acid and niacinamide together, Leung advises that it's best not to combine BHAs with other exfoliants or retinol. “Niacinamide is relatively non-irritating when paired with actives, but when we apply ingredients like AHA or BHAs, we need to give the skin the opportunity to use them.

Is salicylic acid good for acne?

It's well-known for reducing acne by exfoliating the skin and keeping pores clear. You can find salicylic acid in a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) products. It's also available in prescription-strength formulas. Salicylic acid works best for mild acne (blackheads and whiteheads).

Can I use salicylic acid everyday?

Experts recommend that when you first start using salicylic acid in your skincare regimen, you should use it every other day to see how your skin responds. After about two weeks, if you skin is happy, you can increase to daily use.

Can I use salicylic acid daily?

Unlike AHAs, which instantly make a difference to the look of the skin, salicylic acid works on the deeper layers, and needs to be used in small amounts everyday to keep the skin renewed and buildup-free.

Can I use salicylic acid face wash with salicylic acid serum?

A salicylic acid cleanser can be combined with a serum for oily skin and acne-prone skin, but people with dry skin should not go overboard. Salicylic acid lotion and serum should not be used together for any skin type as too much of anything can be destructive.