AHAs and BHAs, such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids should never be used with Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an acid, too, and is unstable, so the pH balance will be thrown off by layering these ingredients together and might as well be useless.
Products with vitamin C are formulated to be as low as 3 on the scale, which ensures they're effective. So using them with acidic ingredients like glycolic or salicylic acid can alter its pH, which can reduce the effectiveness of your vitamin C.
When combined with other acidic products (AHAs like glyocolic acid or BHAs like salicylic acid), the pH of the vitamin C serum can change causing the overall product to be less effective. So yes, you can use vitamin C and AHAs/BHAs at the same time, but you won't be getting the full benefits of your vitamin C.
Can I moisturise after salicylic acid? Absolutely, if anything I strongly suggest moisturising after using salicylic acid. Not only will this soothe and calm the skin after applying the potent BHA to your skin.
Can niacinamide and salicylic acid be used together? The simple answer is yes. They complement each other well. Being oil soluble, salicylic acid can penetrate deeper into the skin layers, but it can also dehydrate and irritate skin.
The short answer is yes, but only after you've established your skin will be happy with it.
"If salicylic acid is an ingredient in your cleanser, it is fine to use it every day." However, if you are using an exfoliant that salicylic acid in the formula, Dr. Hu advises only using the product three times per week, to avoid over-exfoliating the skin and drying it out.
Don't use with: Although salicylic acid can be combined with other exfoliating ingredients, Mudgil says that in order to avoid irritation, it's best to stick to only one exfoliant at a time.
Can I apply moisturizer after using salicylic acid? Yes. Moisturizers can help hydrate and repair skin, making it a good step to do after using an exfoliating treatment with salicylic acid.
You can absolutely use vitamin C and niacinamide together, Singh goes on to emphasize. That said, if you ever have any doubts as to whether it's safe to mix two skin care ingredients, a dermatologist can always offer advice.
Vitamin C works best in combination with Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Vitamin B, and Hyaluronic Acid.
Salicylic acid may be used morning and night. Because it's so gentle, it may also be applied as a midday spot treatment.
No, salicylic acid is not a skin lightening (as in whitening) agent and therefore, it cannot lighten your skin. However, since salicylic acid has the ability to exfoliate your skin's surface and remove dead skin cells, it can help give your skin a brighter more even complexion.
You get the maximum benefit when you adjust your skin to start using it twice a day. But, if you are sensitive to salicylic acid and using it up regularly left your skin dry, red, and peeling, then use it as a toner and leave it up for up to 30 seconds and then rinse off.
Using a potent vitamin C after exfoliation will boost its brightening and firming benefits.
Option 2: Layering Vitamin C + AHA/BHA Together. Acids can enhance the potency of vitamin C. If your skin can tolerate them, it's possible to use acids at the exact same time as vitamin C.
This incredible antioxidant, anti-inflammatory nutrient is known to improve skin tone and texture, hydrate the skin, and reduce signs of aging. Adding vitamin C to your skin care routine can not only brighten your complexion but also protect against skin damage caused by sun exposure and harmful free radicals.
Yes, vitamin C face serum is good for oily skin because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They help loads with the treatment of acne and damaged skin.
The primary negative side effect of salicylic acid is its ability to irritate and dry skin in those that are very sensitive or those who overuse it. So, it's recommended to use it once or twice a week. Salicylic acid can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause sunburn easily.
While vitamin C can be used in the morning or evening, most prefer to apply it during the day since its antioxidant properties act as a shield to deflect pollution and other environmental aggressors.
There's certainly no law against using vitamin C products in the evening, but, again, you may get the most benefit from using them in the morning. “In general, vitamin C products should be applied in the morning before heading out for the day, when UV radiation is at its highest,” Dr. Hogan says.
1. Use your vitamin C serum first, and let it dry. Since vitamin C is notoriously unstable, you always want to apply it on clean, dry skin. Then "Let vitamin C completely dry prior to placing niacinamide," says Lamm.