Tretinoin + Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Can you use Tretinoin with Salicylic Acid?

Yes, with timing

Yes, with timing. Use Tretinoin and Salicylic Acid on alternating nights rather than together.

Why

Both Tretinoin and Salicylic Acid speed up skin turnover. Layered together they commonly cause dryness, peeling and irritation, especially early on. Alternating gives you the benefits of both with less risk.

How to use them together

  1. Night A: Tretinoin. Night B: Salicylic Acid. Or use Salicylic Acid in the morning and Tretinoin at night if your skin tolerates it.
  2. Start slowly (2-3 nights a week each) and moisturize.
  3. Daily sunscreen is essential with both.

Who should be careful

Beginners, people with sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema, and anyone using prescription retinoids should ask their dermatologist before combining.

About the ingredients

Tretinoin: Prescription retinoic acid (Retin-A and others), used for acne and photoaging. The strongest common topical retinoid; dryness and irritation are common early on.

Salicylic Acid (BHA): An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates inside pores. A staple for blackheads and acne.

FAQ

Can I use Tretinoin and Salicylic Acid together?

Yes, with timing. Use Tretinoin and Salicylic Acid on alternating nights rather than together.

Should I use Tretinoin or Salicylic Acid in the morning or at night?

Night A: Tretinoin. Night B: Salicylic Acid. Or use Salicylic Acid in the morning and Tretinoin at night if your skin tolerates it. Start slowly (2-3 nights a week each) and moisturize.

Who should be careful combining Tretinoin and Salicylic Acid?

Beginners, people with sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema, and anyone using prescription retinoids should ask their dermatologist before combining.

What if my skin gets irritated using Tretinoin and Salicylic Acid?

Stop the stronger active, keep a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen, and reintroduce one product at a time once skin calms down. See a dermatologist if irritation persists.

Sources

Studies and reviews on these ingredients and, where available, on this specific combination.

  1. Zaenglein AL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74(5):945-973.
  2. Martin B, et al. Chemical stability of adapalene and tretinoin when combined with benzoyl peroxide in presence and in absence of visible light and ultraviolet radiation. Br J Dermatol. 1998;139 Suppl 52:8-11.
  3. Kornhauser A, Coelho SG, Hearing VJ. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2010;3:135-142.

Last reviewed: . Not medical advice.

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