Can you use Hyaluronic Acid and Salicylic Acid Together?

You can certainly use both of these two powerhouse ingredients together. In fact, many skincare experts explain how teaming the hydrating hyaluronic acid with the pore-clearing and exfoliating benefits of salicylic acid. You’ll also find that due to both ingredients having different pH levels you will have the peace of mind that layering them will not result in irritation or imbalance, but instead a healthy, glowing complexion that is plumped, youthful with perfect clarity.

This, however, is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to using hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid together. In today’s post we’ll be finding out more about what you can expect when using these acids together, so let’s dive right in together and find out more.

What can you not mix with salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid is one of the most used Beta Hydroxy Acid in over-the-counter formulations. You’ll find there is a variety in concentrations found in active levels of this clever acid and all are known for being highly potent and effective. With this comes some caution that must be taken to ensure you are not unknowingly stripping the skin. Therefore, it is considered best to avoid teaming salicylic acid with certain ingredients to avoid unwanted irritation or reactions. The main skincare ingredients you should not mix with salicylic acid are.

• Retinol
• Glycolic Acid
• Benzoyl Peroxide
• Vitamin C

By mixing these ingredients with salicylic acid you’ll find that this can become too much for the skin. This will lead to an imbalance and array of different skin concerns, from severe dryness, itchiness, redness, and rashes. If you are wanting to get a full understanding of what not to mix with salicylic acid, we have a fully dedicated blog post answering your questions over on The Beauty Insiders blog.

Can I use salicylic acid with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide?

Yes, you certainly can! Using all three together does require some organisation, by this I mean understanding when the best time is to apply each ingredient to gain the most from their benefits. For example, opt for an exfoliating toner enriched in salicylic acid as this will slough away dead skin cells and unclog the pores of impurities and bacteria. Next up follow this with hyaluronic acid to give the skin a boost in hydration. You can then finish off with another serum or moisturiser containing niacinamide which will add to the hydration for the face as well as regulating the sebum production keeping the complexion balanced and healthy.

If you’re finding you still have some questions about using salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide together, check out our blog post.

When should salicylic acid be used in routine?

You’ll find that salicylic acid is formulated into several different skincare products, from face cleansers, exfoliating toners, serums, face oils and moisturisers. When you use salicylic acid very much depends on the product you use that contains the potent BHA, remembering of course, to layer your skincare products in the correct order starting with the thinnest and making your way up to the thickest.

The simple advice I would say is make sure you are not using more than one product containing salicylic acid as this can result in the skin becoming over stimulated and left feeling tight, dry, and uncomfortable. Remember, if you have any concerns with introducing salicylic acid or new skincare products into your daily routine, its best to consult with your doctor or dermatologist.

Should I use salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid first?

If you wanted my advice, I would suggest first applying salicylic acid to the skin. Ideally in some form of cleanser or exfoliating toner as this will rid the surface of unwanted debris, bacteria, impurities, and dead skin cells. You’ll also find that any product you apply after will be able to absorb rapidly into the skin due to the fact you’ve rid the skin of any build-up or physical barrier.

Follow this with a hydrating serum packed with hyaluronic acid will boost the hydration of the skin leaving it plumped, glowing and full of youthful bounce. It will also calm the skin and prevent any dryness from occurring after using salicylic acid which can be known for being slightly stripping of the oil in the skin.

Can I mix hyaluronic acid with moisturiser?

Absolutely! In fact, you’ll find that teaming hyaluronic acid with your moisturiser will allow your skin to reap the rewards of both ingredients. This is due to the humectant traits of HA (hyaluronic acid) ensuring every ounce of water from the atmosphere surrounding the face and in skincare formulas is draw into the lower layers and locked into place.

When mixing hyaluronic acid with your moisturiser you are simply ensuring that HA can work to the best of its abilities without any side effects. What I mean by side effects, is the rare occasion the hyaluronic acid you topically applied to your skin has no water to absorb from the atmosphere or skincare products, so instead draws water up from the lower layers of the skin resulting in dryness as well as weakening the skin barrier making it become damaged to free radical exposure.

Should I use toner before hyaluronic acid?

Yes absolutely! Especially if the toner contains an acid, such as salicylic acid. This is because salicylic acid is oil soluble meaning it can penetrate further into the skin compared to other acids, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid. By reaching deeply into the pores the BHA can detoxify and clear the pores of all excess sebum, bacteria, and dirt. As effective as this is for skin clarity, it can cause dryness, particularly for those prone to sensitivity. Luckily, following this with hyaluronic acid will counteract any signs of dryness and irritation leaving you with clear, healthy, and balanced skin.

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