Niacinamide Or Salicylic Acid – Which One Should You Use

Niacinamide Or Salicylic Acid – Which One Should You Use

  • By Srishty Singh

Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid are two active ingredients present in many skincare staples. From everyday face cleansers to high-performing serums and everything in between! But before you decide on one of these ingredients for your daily skincare, it's crucial to understand their differences.   

That’s right. While Niacinamide is dubbed the holy grail of skin brightening, Salicylic Acid is popular for treating different stages of acne (both inflammatory and non-inflammatory). And this is only the tip of the iceberg. The two active ingredients individually extend several benefits to your skin that we will learn in this blog. Keep scrolling to make an informed decision. 

Niacinamide And Its Benefits  

A form of Vitamin B3, Niacinamide is regarded as a skincare all-rounder. From granting the user an even skin tone to combating inflammation – this active does it all. Here’s a closer look at the many benefits of Niacinamide. 

1. It reduces dark spots and patches: Topical application of Niacinamide reduces the melanin concentration in skin cells – combating dark spots and patches. 

2. Absorbs excess oil: Niacinamide is perfect for blotting excess sebum and maintaining a balanced microbiome. 

3. Acne prevention: Use a Niacinamide serum to reduce clogged pores, further preventing blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. 

4. Soothe inflammation and irritation: If you have redness, rashes or hives, Niacinamide is the perfect match for your daily routine. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help revive your skin exponentially. 

The Best Niacinamide Product On Foxtale  

Now that you are well-versed in the many benefits of Niacinamide, it’s time to add the ingredient to your routine. Try Foxtale’s Niacinamide Serum for your rotation.  

What Makes Our Niacinamide Serum Stand Out? 

  • The creamy formula cuts excess shine to give your skin a soft glow 
  • You can use it as a primer to cloak blemishes and blur pores. 
  • It helps soothe inflamed, irritated skin. 
  • The Niacinamide Serum fades acne marks while boosting your skin’s radiance. 

Who Can Use It? 

Our Niacinamide Serum has been formulated with all skin types in mind. 

Salicylic Acid And Its Benefits  

A type of BHA (or Beta Hydroxy Acid), Salicylic Acid is an oil-soluble active. It seeps into the pores, dislodging grime, debris and excess sebum. Moreover, Salicylic Acid possesses incomparable anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties – making it the perfect fit for folks with acne. Here are some more benefits of Salicylic Acid - 

1. Exfoliates skin: Salicylic Acid sheds unwarranted buildup to reveal a smoother, brighter surface underneath.

2. Unclogs pores: We know that oil-soluble Salicylic Acid seeps deep into the pores to remove impurities – minimizing the appearance of pores. \

3. Oil control: Just like Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid soaks up excess sebum, ensuring a healthy microbiome for your skin.

4. Fight active acne: Due to the active ingredient’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, Salicylic Acid is also dubbed an exceptional remedy for acne. 

The Best Salicylic Acid Products On Foxtale  

If you are looking to add Salicylic Acid to your daily skincare, we are here to help. Try Foxtale’s iconic Acne Control Face Wash and AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum to reap the benefits of the meticulous active. 

What Makes Our Acne Control Face Wash Stand Out? 

  • Salicylic Acid at the heart of this formulation buffs away dead cells and debris without drying your skin. 
  • Hyaluronic Acid in the face wash ensures long-lasting hydration to the skin for its soft, elastic appearance. 
  • Niacinamide doubles down on effort for hydration and strengthens the lipid barrier. 
  • The presence of Alpha Bisabolol has a soothing and calming effect on the skin. 

Who Can Use It? 

Our Acne Control Face Wash with Salicylic Acid is a must-have for people with oily and acne-prone skin. 

What Makes Our AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum Stand Out? 

1. The efficacious serum leverages the power of Glycolic Acid (AHA) and Salicylic Acid (BHA) to dissolve dirt, grime and impurities overnight. 

2. This Salicylic Acid serum is gentlenon-tingling, and non-drying 

3. Hyaluronic Acid in this formulation ensures hydration and offsets epsidoes of inflammation. 

Who Should Use It? 

Regular exfoliation is non-negotiable for every skin type. However, we recommend using this high-performing formula only 2 to 3 times a week. 

But What Should You Use? 

By now we know that Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid extend several skincare benefits. But which one should you use? Scroll ahead  

  • If you want to keep your skin hydrated for prolonged periods, place your trust Foxtale’s Niacinamide Serum. 
  • To fight active acne, we recommend using Salicylic Acid 
  • Do you experience inexplicable episodes of redness or inflammation? If yes, Niacinamide should be on your radar. 
  • Struggle with excessive skin greasiness? A combination of Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid will nip the problem in the bud. This duo of ingredients will also avert future breakouts, acne, whiteheads and blackheads. 

How To Layer Niacinamide And Salicylic Acid?

After gently cleansing your face, apply a layer of Salicylic Acid serum. Once the into your skin (in 20-30 minutes), follow up with a pea-sized amount of Niacinamide.  

Potential Side Effects Of Using Salicylic Acid And Niacinamide Together 

While Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide are mostly well-tolerated, some individuals may experience-

1. Skin irritation: Skin irritation manifests in redness, burning sensation, and itching.

2. Dryness: Some folks may experience dryness or flakiness on the skin due to Salicylic Acid. This is more common among people with dry and sensitive skin.

3. Sun sensitivity: Using Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide can make your skin photosensitive. To avoid any flare-ups, we recommend applying 2 fingers’ worth of sunscreen in the morning. 

Common Mistakes To Avoid While Using Niacinamide And Salicylic Acid Together?  

These mistakes with Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid should be avoided at all costs.

1. Not conducting a patch test: If you’re new to Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid or both, we recommend conducting a patch test on the neck first. If your skin responds well, go ahead and apply this combination on your face.

2. Not starting with a low concentration of Salicylic Acid: People with dry and sensitive skin can start with a low concentration of Salicylic Acid Serum. This will eliminate the possibility of inflammation or flare-ups.

3. Skimping on sunscreen: Topical application of Salicylic Acid might make your skin photosensitive. To avoid any sun-induced burns or rashes, apply a generous layer of sunscreen while stepping outdoors. Moreover, a potent sunscreen protects the new skin cells after the Salicylic Acid exfoliation.

Conclusion  

Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide are a match made in heaven. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, use this potent combo to address multiple concerns. While Niacinamide blots excess sebum, Salicylic Acid unclogs pores and prevents acne – ensuring a balanced microbiome for the skin. Moreover, Niacinamide soothes inflammation, maintains skin hydration, and strengthens the lipid barrier – directing efforts for overall skin health. 

FAQs 

1. Can I use Niacinamide every day?

Yes, you can use Niacinamide every day. If you are new to the active ingredient, we recommend conducting a patch test on the neck first.\

2. When should I use Niacinamide, during day or night? 

You can use Foxtale’s Niacinamide Serum in your morning/nighttime skincare routine.

3. Is 5% Niacinamide sufficient? 

Yes! 5% Niacinamide Serum is efficacious and beginner friendly. 

4. What is the best routine for acne-prone skin?

- Start by gently cleansing your skin with Acne Control Face Wash with Salicylic Acid.

- Once your skin is dry, take 2 to 3 pumps of the Niacinamide Serum and dab it onto your skin.

- After the serum absorbs into the skin, apply a dollop of the Oil Free Moisturizer by Foxtale. This will help seal in the treatment and hydration.

- Next, use Foxtale Mattifying Sunscreen to shield your skin against UVA and UVB rays. The innovative formula contains Niacinamide (too) that blots oil and prevents clogged pores.

5. Can I use Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid together in my skincare routine? 

Yes. Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid work wonders for people with oily and acne-prone skin.

6. How long does it take for Salicylic Acid or Niacinamide to show results? 

The duration varies from person to person. Having said that, with regular use, Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid show results in 4 to 6 weeks.

7. Are there any side effects to using Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid together? 

Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide are a match made in heaven – with little to no side effects. However, folks with dry or sensitive skin may experience irritation, sun sensitivity, and/or dryness.

8. Can I use Niacinamide during the day and Salicylic Acid at night? 

Yes, you can.

9. Is it necessary to use sunscreen while using Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid? 

Absolutely. Active ingredients like Salicylic Acid make your skin photosensitivity. To avoid any flareups, use a generous amount of sunscreen before stepping outdoors.

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