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.
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.
Salicylic acid first, then hyaluronic acid second.
For clearer-looking skin, pair Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. For hydrated skin, pair Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide.
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.
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].
Niacinamide serum and salicylic acid serum
Let it absorb completely into your skin before following up with a 5% niacinamide serum. This combination helps to maximize the benefits and improve your skin's texture.
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.
Avoid the eye area and any open wounds or inflamed skin. Wait for the salicylic acid to fully absorb into the skin. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Apply your moisturizer to help hydrate the skin and lock in the salicylic acid.
There is little to no downtime following a salicylic acid peel. Skin erythema (redness) with flaking and dryness usually resolve within two to three days. Most candidates return to all normal activities immediately following the treatment. Unscented moisturizer or a topical steroid can aid recovery.
Salicylic acid can cause skin purging. Also known as BHA, it's the chemical exfoliant most associated with this phenomenon because its oil-soluble nature lets it penetrate pores, breaking apart clumps of skin cells trapped in the pore lining.
Most people (bar those with super-sensitive skin) should be able to use a Salicylic acid cleanser every day. The other exception is face masks, which are designed to be an added extra when your skin needs a little extra TLC – not a daily part of your routine.
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.
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.
Hydrate with a nourishing moisturizer: To achieve a glowing complexion, moisturizing is essential. Choose a hydrating moisturizer that suits your skin type and contains nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or aloe vera. Apply it to your face and neck, massaging it gently until fully absorbed.
Engelman advises against using salicylic acid in conjunction with other strong exfoliants like glycolic acid. Doing so may lead to over-exfoliation. “For patients who are interested in using both of these ingredients, I recommend using them at different times of the day, or on different days,” she says.
Generally speaking, the most potent skin products containing salicylic acid are those such as serums, spot treatments and cleansers, all of which are applied before moisturisers.
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.
In the mornings, use a serum or treatment that contains niacinamides or azelaic acid, as they are gentler on your skin. You can use products containing retinol or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) at night. These are chemical exfoliants that should only be used two to three times a week, as they can be harsh on your skin.