Hyaluronic Acid & Salicylic Acid: How to Layer Them Together

Hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid are a go-to in many skincare routines for fighting acne and intense hydration. But their benefits are not restricted to just one skin type or concern, and they extend well beyond. For many individuals, the combination of hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid works better than using either one. In this blog, DRSQ sheds some light-based evidence on how to combine salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid. 

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Benefit the Skin

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring polysaccharide in your body, including eyes, joints, and skin, but you may need it topically to get direct skin benefits. It's produced by fermenting specific kinds of microbes and bacteria. Other common resources are rooster combs. 

Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing intense hydration no matter the skin type. It's a proven solution for dehydrated skin and keeps skin hydrated and plump, smoothens wrinkles by supporting collagen production in the skin. Hyaluronic acid has outstanding skin renewal and collagen-boosting effects, and can help with eczema and heal wounds by promoting the regeneration of tissues. 

How Does Salicylic Acid Benefit the Skin

Derived from the substance found in the wintergreen leaves and willow bark, salicylic acid can break down the bonds between skin cells and possesses antimicrobial properties. It is a peeling agent and can penetrate deeply into the skin layers. Heavily beneficial, though not confined to, oily skin, salicylic acid can control acne, breakouts, and several skin conditions like psoriasis. 

It goes deep into your skin and sweeps the excessive sebum and dirt away, making your skin clean and free from breakouts. Clean pores prevent the buildup on the skin's surface that can further lead to acne. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates and soothes inflamed skin. 

Can You Combine Hyaluronic Acid and Salicylic Acid

Yes, hyaluronic acid can be combined with salicylic acid, and proven to be one of the most potent combinations of skincare ingredients when used appropriately. If you are using salicylic acid and have faced mild irritation, hyaluronic acid can help soothe the skin while moisturising the skin's surface without leaving any grease. 

However, it is advisable to consult your dermatologist before trying your hand at this combination. Whether this pairing works well depends upon various factors, and results might differ from skin to skin. 

What to Apply First: Hyaluronic Acid or Salicylic Acid

There's no rule of thumb to apply hyaluronic acid or salicylic acid first. The application sequence depends upon the formula of these products, and not the ingredients. Layer your products from thin to thick consistency for better absorption. Moreover, if you use salicylic acid in cleanser and hyaluronic acid in moisturiser or serum, a natural routine will fall into place on its own. 

For example, you can begin your routine with a mild salicylic acid cleanser to unclog pores and balance oil production in your skin, then continue with a hyaluronic acid serum to lock in the hydration and rejuvenate the skin from within. The key is to listen to your skin. Observe how it behaves. 

Can You Use Them Together Daily

It's generally safe and provides no harm to the skin when using salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid together daily. Salicylic acid is a BHA, making it a chemical exfoliant and available in 0.5% to 2% concentration in OTC products. Pay attention to concentration if you are a beginner or your skin is prone to dryness. Using a high-concentration salicylic acid formulation can lead to roughness, peeling, or sensitivity. 

Also read: The Essential 4-Step Skincare Routine for Your Sensitive Skin

Individuals with dehydrated, dry, or sensitive skin can start using salicylic acid two to three times a week to avoid over-exfoliation. 

How to Use Salicylic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid In Your Skincare Routine

It's no hassle to combine salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine. Incorporate them intelligently to get the maximum benefits of both. Take your pick from these three simple paths;

1. You can begin with a salicylic acid cleanser to avoid all the dirt and sebum on the skin's surface, making it like a clean canvas. Then follow with a hyaluronic acid serum and a moisturiser of your choice. Ensure sun protection in the morning skincare routine. 
2. Another way is to apply a salicylic acid serum and finish with a hyaluronic acid moisturiser. The leave-on salicylic acid serum can deeply and gently exfoliate, and the hyaluronic acid moisturiser can intensely hydrate. 
3. You may also use a formulation containing both salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid. It’s easy, convenient, and a time-saving option. 
   

What Should You Avoid Combining With Hyaluronic Acid and Salicylic Acid

Hyaluronic acid goes well with most of the skincare ingredients, but salicylic acid does not. Being an exfoliating agent, salicylic acid requires more attention when combined with other actives. 

It's best not to use glycolic acid, retinol, and vitamin C with salicylic acid. All these acids can irritate when layered with salicylic acid. You may find these infused together in one product, but that's not a matter of concern, as those products are formulated by experts and made to be skin-friendly and cause no harm. 

Can I Use Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid Together

Yes, you can use salicylic acid, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid together to make the most out of your skincare routine. Adding to the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid, niacinamide can hydrate the skin, clean and minimise pores, and regulate sebum production. For someone dealing with blemishes, using this combination can aid. 

However, it's best to talk to your doctor about this combination and which is the right order of application. Generally, using salicylic acid followed by niacinamide and finishing with hyaluronic acid works. 

Which is Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Hyaluronic Acid or Salicylic Acid

A skincare routine with both salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid can support facial acne, back and body acne, breakouts, and associated concerns. An acne-prone skin needs gentle exfoliation, oil management, and thorough hydration, and both these acids can perform these functions well. Salicylic acid is a good option to treat mild acne, while hyaluronic acid does not directly treat it. But acts as a humectant to keep the skin moisturised. 

Skincare Products with Hyaluronic Acid and Salicylic Acid 

1. Renew & Glow

Renew & Glow is a combined salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid serum that targets breakouts, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Salicylic acid in the serum prevents enlarged pores and reduces inflammation, while ultra-low-weight hyaluronic acid helps with scaling and itching, makes skin plump and replenishes it. It also has lactic acid to exfoliate the skin and aid signs of ageing, glycolic acid to smoothen the skin's texture and improve fine lines, and alpha arbutin to promote skin brightening.  

2. Repair Serum

Repair serum is a lightweight and silky formula with 5% salicylic acid and other beneficial actives such as 2.5% mandelic acid and 1.75% lactic acid. This intelligently blended formulation can help your skin with inflammation, pore-clogging, uneven tone and texture, and pigmentation. Along with some barrier-repairing botanicals like Porphyra Tenera extract, Pyrus Malus fruit extract, and Chamomilla Recutita flower extract, this serum can soothe your skin and promote intense hydration. 

References:

• Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 4(3), 263–268.
• Efficacy of cream-based novel formulations of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights in anti-wrinkle treatment. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 10(9), 990–1000.
• The effect of a combination of salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid on facial skin texture and hydration. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 15(3), 293–297. 
• Topical niacinamide and salicylic acid in the treatment of acne and acne-related post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 7(3), 30–34.
• Interactions of active ingredients in combined topical treatments: a review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 18(3), 615–621. 
• Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-Endocrinology, 4(3), 253–258.