Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid First: Which is the Best for Your Skincare Routine?

Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid First: Which One Should You Use in Your Skincare Routine?

Are you someone who is starting to build a skincare routine, but isn’t quite sure what products to use or in what order? Two popular ingredients in skincare right now are niacinamide and salicylic acid. But which one should you use first? In this article, we will explore the benefits of each ingredient and provide recommendations on how to use them effectively in your routine.

Let’s start by examining niacinamide. Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a versatile ingredient that can benefit a variety of skin types. It is known for its ability to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and fine lines and can even out skin tone. Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm redness and irritation.

Salicylic acid, on the other hand, is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is primarily used for oily and acne-prone skin. It functions by exfoliating the skin and unclogging pores, which can reduce the occurrence of breakouts. Salicylic acid can also be beneficial for those with uneven skin texture or hyperpigmentation.

So, now that we have a basic understanding of these two ingredients, let’s answer the question: niacinamide or salicylic acid first? As a general rule, start with the ingredient that targets your biggest skin concern. For example, if your main concern is acne and oily skin, start with salicylic acid. If your primary concerns are pore size and skin tone, start with niacinamide.

However, it is essential to pay attention to how your skin reacts to each ingredient. If you experience sensitivity or dryness when using salicylic acid first, consider using niacinamide first to help protect and soothe the skin. Alternatively, if you’re experiencing irritation or redness when using niacinamide first, try incorporating salicylic acid first to help control breakouts.

When incorporating these ingredients into your routine, try to use them at different times of the day. For example, you could use niacinamide in the morning and salicylic acid at night. This will help give your skin a chance to reap the benefits of each ingredient without overloading it.

Finally, when selecting products, be sure to choose ones that are suitable for your skin type. Some popular products that contain niacinamide include The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Booster. If you’re interested in using salicylic acid, look for products such as Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid or COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid.

In conclusion, the best way to decide whether to use niacinamide or salicylic acid first is to take into account your specific skin concerns and to pay attention to how your skin reacts to each ingredient. Remember that consistency is key in a skincare routine, so be patient and give these ingredients time to work their magic.