How to Layer Hyaluronic Acid with Salicylic Acid

We’ve been focusing on skincare product layering for a while now over on The Beauty Insiders blog and today we will be focusing on two ingredients that have each gained a reputation for being highly beneficial for the skin, in their own unique way.

So, with this in mind it’s time to get stuck in and find out more about how to layer hyaluronic acid with salicylic acid. You’ll be amazed at the results you will see on the skin once you have teamed these two powerhouse ingredients together.

What do I apply first salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid?

When it comes to using salicylic acid, it is best to keep in mind the common drying side effects of this popular BHA. With the different percentages found in the various products containing salicylic acid will depend on which product you will use which then leads to which stage in your routine you would apply hyaluronic acid.

As previously mentioned, salicylic acid is often found in several products, from face wash, cleansers, toners, serums, and face oils. Comparing this to hyaluronic acid you will find that this hydrating ingredient usually comes in products usually applied towards the end of your routine, from serums, moisturisers, and face oils. It will appear that applying hyaluronic acid after salicylic acid is a natural step that occurs when applying your skincare routine.

You may also find that following salicylic acid with hyaluronic acid will combat any signs of dryness and irritation whilst locking moisture into the outer surface of the skin and ensuring the protective barrier is strengthened. Once the skin’s protective barrier is fully functioning it has the ability to prevent any further skin damage caused from exposure to free radicals and other environmental aggressors.

Can I use salicylic acid, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid together?

You can indeed! The main benefit of using niacinamide and hyaluronic acid together is their ability to provide hydration and protection for the skin. For example, when applied to the face hyaluronic acid is capable to lock the highest amount of water keeping the outer and lower layers hydrated. It continues to provide this hydration throughout the entire day and well into the evening if applied once in the morning. By following this with niacinamide you will help balance the natural sebum production and keep it regulated, this is an ideal ingredient for those who are prone to blemishes and dehydration.

With this hydrating duo using salicylic acid is an easy task with the risk of any signs of irritation or skin dryness significantly reduced. Leaving you with a hydrated perfect clarity to the complexion.

Is hyaluronic acid or salicylic acid better?

This is a difficult one to answer as each ingredient provides different benefits for the skin. When introducing either salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid into your routine you must pay close attention to which skin type you have as this will determine whether you are able to use salicylic acid due to it being a potent BHA that has impressive anti-blemish properties. As for hyaluronic acid, this is one of the very few ingredients that can be applied to all skin types without any worries. By teaming them together you will reap the rewards for your skin to look and feel its best, so why not just use both as they are both as effective as each other delivering their own unique benefits for the skin. It is always a good idea to perform a patch test on your forearm for 24 hours and consult with a dermatologist or medical professional to avoid any unwanted reactions.

What order do acids go in?

When using acids, it is best to not apply more than two on the skin as this can become too much for the skin and can lead to possible irritation. If these acids are formulated into serums for example, I suggest first opting for the blend containing an active ingredient such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid. This is allowing these potent serums to work at penetrating into the lower layers of the skin. You can then follow this with a more nourishing and hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid to counteract any dryness or irritation and inside soothe and lock water into the skin helping it remain hydrated and full of bounce. 

Can I use hyaluronic acid after salicylic acid?

This is dependent on the consistency of the skincare formulation that contains these ingredients. For example, applying a serum after a moisturiser, or even SPF will make it completely impossible for the potent blend of ingredients in the serum to work its way into the lower layers. Remember to apply your products from thinnest to thickest as this will allow all active ingredients and formulas to deliver the best skin results. As previously mentioned, you tend to find hyaluronic acid formulated into the products applied at the end of your routine, such as serum, moisturiser, or creams. This will make it ideal for reduce salicylic acid from drying out the skin and locking extra moisturise into the protective barrier. 

When should salicylic acid be used in routine?

There is several ways of adding salicylic acid into your daily routine. Often formulated into various skincare products it is a simple task to incorporate this potent powerhouse. Ensuring you introduce the ingredient into your routine the best way possible to avoid irritation. This can be achieved by using it every two or three days at first to build skin tolerance. You can find out more about adding salicylic acid serum to skincare routine by checking out our dedicated blog post. 

Should I use salicylic acid serum in the morning or night?

This is very much dependent on your skin type, for those prone to blemishes and oily skin will benefit more from regular application of salicylic acid. Having said that, a salicylic acid serum contains a higher percentage of the potent BHA and remains on the skin for a longer amount of time. This can result in the skin becoming irritated, especially when used twice in the morning and night. Using a salicylic acid in the evening will benefit the skin more as it is able to work uninterrupted from exposure to free radicals and other daily aggressors that can cause imbalance and damage to the skin. 

Can I use salicylic acid every day?

If your skin is happy to use salicylic acid every day, then work it into your routine the best way possible to see the results. Just a word of warning, if you find your skin starts feeling tight, irritated, or dry it’s a good idea to alternate the days you apply the BHA. Remember, you can have too much of a good thing so keep your routine full of a collection of high performing ingredients that work together and deliver impressive results.

There you have a little more information about how to layer hyaluronic acid with salicylic acid, if you have any questions come and follow us on Instagram.