Vitamin C + Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Can you use Vitamin C with Salicylic Acid?
Yes, with timing. Use vitamin C in the morning and Salicylic Acid at night.
Why
There is no harmful interaction, but both are acidic. Layering a leave-on BHA under an L-ascorbic acid serum can sting. Vitamin C belongs in the morning; salicylic acid works well as a cleanser or as an evening treatment.
How to use them together
- AM: vitamin C, moisturizer, sunscreen.
- PM (a few nights a week): Salicylic Acid, moisturizer.
Who should be careful
Sensitive skin should introduce one at a time.
About the ingredients
Vitamin C: An antioxidant (L-ascorbic acid and derivatives) used for brightening and protection against UV-related oxidative stress. Pure L-ascorbic acid serums are acidic and can sting.
Salicylic Acid (BHA): An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates inside pores. A staple for blackheads and acne.
FAQ
Can I use Vitamin C and Salicylic Acid together?
Yes, with timing. Use vitamin C in the morning and Salicylic Acid at night.
Should I use Vitamin C or Salicylic Acid in the morning or at night?
AM: vitamin C, moisturizer, sunscreen. PM (a few nights a week): Salicylic Acid, moisturizer.
Who should be careful combining Vitamin C and Salicylic Acid?
Sensitive skin should introduce one at a time.
What if my skin gets irritated using Vitamin C 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.
- Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866.
- Al-Niaimi F, Chiam NYZ. Topical vitamin C and the skin: mechanisms of action and clinical applications. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017;10(7):14-17.
- Kornhauser A, Coelho SG, Hearing VJ. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2010;3:135-142.
- Zaenglein AL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74(5):945-973.
Related combinations
- Can you use Retinol with Vitamin C?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Niacinamide?
- Can you use Retinol with Salicylic Acid?
- Can you use Tretinoin with Vitamin C?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Hyaluronic Acid?
- Can you use Niacinamide with Salicylic Acid?
- Can you use Tretinoin with Salicylic Acid?
- Can you use Vitamin C with Glycolic Acid?