Let’s dive in.
What is retinol?
Up first, we have retinol.
At its core, retinol is a topical form ofvitamin A.
The difference between the two categories tends to be the strength, as OTC formulas are generally less potent.
Benefits of retinol.
There are plenty ofbenefits to using retinol, and not just for aging skin alone.
Here’s a quick summary:
What is salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is abeta-hydroxy acid (aka BHA), which means it’s oil- and fat-soluble.
“But nowadays salicylic acid is mostly synthetically produced, either via biosynthesis or via commercial production.”
Benefits of salicylic acid.
There are plenty of reasons, especially for those that may be prone to breakouts, bothoccasionalor chronic.
Let’s settle this: Can you use them at the same time?
The question you’ve been asking: Can you use both ingredients simultaneously?
The short answer is no, you probably shouldn’t.
The goal here is to isolate your active ingredients (read: use one active per sitting).
In general, this means applying the ingredients at different times of the day, Nichols suggests.
you’re able to also apply them on different nights (aka practice skin cycling).
More on that in a bit.
5 ways to use retinol & salicylic acid in the same routine.
So, let’s get into logisticshow can you use these two in the same routine?
We repeat: Wear yourSPFevery single day.
Practice skin cycling.
Use SA masks weekly but retinol regularly.
When you think of salicylic acid, you might immediately picture a serum.
However, it’s possible for you to use this ingredient in mask form as well.
Use a salicylic acid cleanser.
For most folks this will be too drying if used back-to-back.
You shouldn’t use retinol and salicylic acid in the same sitting.
Can I use salicylic acid and retinol on different days?
Can you use salicylic acid and retinol on the same day?
you might use salicylic acid and retinol on the same day if you use them at different times.
Use salicylic acid in the morning and retinol at night, as the latter is sensitive to UV light.
The takeaway.
Salicylic acid and retinol are great ingredients to use for anyone with oily or acne-prone skin.
However, they should not be used at the same time.
Looking for more ways to ease breakouts?Check out our full guide to managing acne here.
