Do you put moisturizer or salicylic acid first?

Author: Virginia Bernhard  |  Last update: Monday, June 30, 2025

Salicylic acid can be drying to the skin, so it's important to moisturize your skin after using it. Look for a moisturizer that is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and free of fragrances and other irritants. Moisturizing after using salicylic acid can help to soothe the skin and prevent dryness and irritation.

Should I apply salicylic acid before or after moisturizer?

Applying salicylic acid before your moisturizer allows it to penetrate into the skin more effectively. This is particularly important for those using salicylic acid to treat acne or blackheads, as the ingredient needs to reach deep into the pores to be effective.

What is the correct order to apply skincare?

The general order for applying skincare products is: 1. Cleanser 2. Toner (optional) 3. Exfoliant (if applicable) 4. Serum (eg, vitamin C or niacinamide) 5. Moisturizer 6. Sunscreen (morning routine only). Be sure to adjust based on your specific routine and product instructions. For more, check out my Quora Profile.

Is salicylic acid better on damp or dry skin?

Salicylic acid is best applied to dry skin, whereas hyaluronic acid is best applied to damp skin and then sealed in with a thicker moisturizer/occlusive. Damp skin is more porous, allowing skincare components to enter the skin's barrier more easily.

What not to use after salicylic acid?

Retinoids or retinol and salicylic acid

Generally, it's recommended you don't mix retinol and salicylic acid in your skincare routine due to the risk of redness or potentially irritating side effects [3].

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What should I layer with salicylic acid?

For clearer-looking skin, pair Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. For hydrated skin, pair Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide.

What kind of moisturizer to use after salicylic acid?

Hyaluronic acid can help rehydrate complexions after a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid has been applied. This means you can support skin texture and clarity with salicylic acid, followed by hyaluronic acid to nourish and soften the skin.

How many times a week should you use salicylic acid?

When it comes down to what percentage of salicylic acid is good for acne, here's our rule of thumb: Most skin types, especially normal to oily, can get away with using 2%. If your skin tends to be on the dry or sensitive side, start with a lower percentage or opt for the 2% but use it 2-3 times a week instead of daily.

Can I use vitamin C and salicylic acid together?

Salicylic acid and vitamin C are both effective products on their own but, when combined, they can be even more beneficial. Whether you're looking to brighten your skin, reduce the likelihood of blemishes or just help slow down the skin's natural aging process, these ingredients may be just what you're looking for.

What is the 4 2 4 rule in skincare?

The 4-2-4 rule is a detailed cleansing routine that involves a four-minute oil massage, a two-minute cleanse with a water-based cleanser and a four-minute rinse with warm and cold water. Read ahead to know about the Japanese double cleanse routine, and what experts have to say about it.

What is the best night moisturizer?

Our top pick for the best night cream is Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream, as it's great for all skin types and provides long-lasting hydration. Another fantastic option is La Roche-Posay's Double Repair Moisturizer, which leaves the skin feeling nourished, soft, and supple—all for under $25.

What order should I do my skincare?

The right morning routine will help your skin feel calm and hydrated all day long.
  1. Step 1: Cleanser. A clean face is your starting point for a healthy, glowing complexion. ...
  2. Step 2: Toner. ...
  3. Step 3: Serum. ...
  4. Step 4: Moisturizer. ...
  5. Step 5: Eye Cream. ...
  6. Step 6: Sunscreen.

Is it better to use salicylic acid at night or morning?

Instead, you can alternate these ingredients across your AM and PM skincare routine. Since vitamin C helps to counteract free radical damage, it is most effective when applied to your skin in the morning. Conversely, salicylic acid is recommended for nighttime use since it can increase photosensitivity.

What is skin purging?

“Skin purging” is a term some people use to describe an increase in acne after starting a new skin care product, such as a retinoid. However, there are no scientific studies on this topic. Dryness, flaking, or peeling are well-known side effects of some skin care ingredients, such as retinoids.

What not to use with salicylic acid?

What not to mix with Salicylic Acid. Retinol: As Retinol and Salicylic Acid are both exfoliating, drying skincare ingredients, using both together in the same routine could lead to serious irritation.

Can you 100% remove acne scars?

Even with treatment, acne scars are difficult to heal. There's no 100% guarantee that the acne scars will be completely gone. But most treatments reduce the size of the acne scars and make them less visible.

How long does salicylic acid take to clear acne?

Using an exfoliating face wash like SLMD Salicylic Acid Cleanser twice a day will help remove buildup trapped inside pores. Over the course of a month to six weeks, consistent cleansing with a gentle exfoliant can have an impact on both noninflammatory and inflammatory acne.

What pairs well with salicylic acid?

For an enhanced skincare regimen, you can pair your salicylic acid serum with the following active ingredients:
  • Hyaluronic acid serum and salicylic acid serum. ...
  • Niacinamide serum and salicylic acid serum. ...
  • Alpha arbutin serum and salicylic acid serum.

Why am I getting pimples after using salicylic acid?

If you've recently started using a product containing retinoids or chemical exfoliants such as glycolic or salicylic acid, there's a good chance your skin is feeling the purge. These ingredients work quicker by helping bring impurities to the surface and small red bumps can actually be a sign the product is working.

Can I put moisturizer on top of salicylic acid?

Salicylic acid can be drying to the skin, so it's important to moisturize your skin after using it. Look for a moisturizer that is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and free of fragrances and other irritants. Moisturizing after using salicylic acid can help to soothe the skin and prevent dryness and irritation.

What is the best face moisturizer?

Some of the best brands include:
  • CeraVe: Known for their gentle, dermatologist recommended moisturizers.
  • La Roche-Posay: Offers a wide range of affordable skincare products, including non-comedogenic moisturizers.
  • Kiehl's: Known for their effective, high end skincare products.

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