As for ingredients that the solution does work well with… Niacinamide also helps to target blemishes and congestion but via different pathways, so together The Ordinary's Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and the Salicylic 2% Anhydrous Solution make the perfect pair if you have congested and breakout-prone skin.
For clearer-looking skin, pair Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. For hydrated skin, pair Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide.
Vitamin C and Salicylic acid can be used together to lessen the occurrence and aftermath of breakouts. Vitamin C is a punchy antioxidant, shielding skin from free radicals from things like pollution and stress – both of which can contribute to breakouts.
Salicylic Acid is considered to be one of the most effective peeling agents. Using Salicylic Acid with Retinol or Benzoyl Peroxide can dry out the skin, causing flakiness and redness.
Weekly Step 2: Treat
The salicylic acid in this formula targets pore congestion and helps to remove dead skin cells and excess oil, which promotes soft, smooth skin. After Salicylic Acid 2% Masque, you can apply Balancing and Clarifying Serum before the next step.
Like most products with active ingredients, there are certain ingredients that this solution can't be combined with. The Ordinary advise against using the solution in the same routine as peptides, other exfoliating acids, retinoids, vitamin C, or EUK 134 0.1%.
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].
Retinol and Salicylic Acid
Both of these ingredients are two of the most potent blends in the plethora of skincare products. Combining both of these together will act as a super charged, double intense skin nightmare resulting in severe dryness, sensitivity and an increase in skin photosensitivity.
Layering of salicylic acid
Layering too many products or using too many actives at once is doing more harm than good. Listen to your skin always. The best way to use Salicylic acid is as cleansers, which I would suggest using twice a day maximum.
Yes, a combination of niacinamide and salicylic acid can provide a myriad of benefits when properly incorporated into a consistent skin care regimen. Using niacinamide and salicylic acid together can help reduce the appearance of redness, inflammation, and clogged pores.
To avoid irritation, do not let this medication come into contact with your eyes, nose, mouth, groin, or any broken skin (such as cuts, scrapes, rashes). If you do get the medication in those areas, flush the area with cool water for 15 minutes.
Apply once daily in the evening. Apply a small dot to the target area or apply a small amount over the face for general use. Do not use on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.
Salicylic Acid + Glycolic Acid
Mixing the two together will strip your skin and most likely cause irritation. Using these acids together can also over exfoliate the skin, which can actually speed up the aging process because it slows cell turnover.
There are several reasons retinol and salicylic acid should not be used at the same time. Since retinol is such a potent ingredient, it already creates the potential for temporary dryness, redness and flaking. When applied at the same time with salicylic acid, the chances of these effects are increased.
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.
DON'T MIX: AHA/BHA and niacinamide
Niacinamide is used to treat hyperpigmentation and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants. To understand why niacinamide shouldn't be mixed with AHAs and BHAs, you need to consider pH.
Using niacinamide with salicylic acid together is generally regarded as safe. In fact, these ingredients may help one another penetrate the skin better. That being said, if you're unsure about whether products in your routine are compatible with one another, consult your dermatologist.
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.