Salicylic Acid

Yes, it can. Salicylic acid accelerates skin cell turnover, meaning it can bring underlying clogged pores to the surface, before clearing them. This can lead to temporary breakouts, known as the purging phase, which typically lasts two to six weeks.

If breakouts persist beyond this period or worsen significantly, your skin may be irritated rather than purging. To minimise irritation, start slowly, use a gentle moisturiser and avoid over exfoliation and any harsh active ingredients.

Yes. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), meaning it’s oil-soluble and can sink deep into the pores to remove oil, dead skin and bacteria.

This makes it especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, as opposed to AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), which primarily exfoliate the skin’s surface.

Yes, but use with caution as this depends on your unique skin type and sensitivities. Both ingredients are powerful exfoliants, so using them together can cause irritation and dryness, particularly if you have particularly sensitive skin. 

If you want to incorporate both into your routine:

• Apply a gentle salicylic acid formula in the morning and your retinoid or retinol at night to minimise irritation.
• Apply on alternate nights if you have particularly sensitive skin, or follow a skin cycling routine, where you alternate actives with ‘rest days’ using only gentle, soothing formulas. 
• Whatever option you choose, follow with gentle, hydrating formulas and a minimum of SPF 50 during the day. SPF is particularly important as both salicylic acid and retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

If irritation occurs, reduce usage, then gradually reintroduce one product at a time. It’s worth noting that not every ingredient works for everyone; if you’re not seeing your desired results after several weeks of consistent use, or the ingredient is irritating your skin despite reducing frequency, it’s could simply mean that it’s not the best solution for your skin.

Yes – salicylic acid and niacinamide work well together, particularly if you’re looking to target blemishes or balance oily skin. Salicylic acid clears pores and reduces oiliness, while niacinamide soothes the skin, supports barrier function and reduces redness.

You can use them in the same routine:

• Apply salicylic acid first to exfoliate and clear pores.
• Follow with niacinamide to balance and hydrate the skin.

The easiest way to use salicylic acid with niacinamide is to find a formula containing both active ingredients. Our best option is our Even Better Clinical™ Dark Spot Clearing Serum, a gentle yet powerful formula combining salicylic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C to gently target blemishes, reduce post-blemish marks and keep the skin smooth, soft and hydrated.

Yes, but ensure you’re using them correctly as they can be potentially irritating when layered together. 

To use them effectively:

• Use vitamin C in the morning to brighten and provide antioxidant protection. 
• Use salicylic acid at night to exfoliate and clear pores.
• If using in the same routine, we suggest a targeted formula containing both salicylic acid and vitamin C, such as Even Better Clinical™ Dark Spot Clearing Serum. This formula combines the exfoliating, pore-clearing benefits of salicylic acid with the brightening properties of vitamin C, yet is hydrating, gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.