Beauty Elixir

Can you use Ceramides with Salicylic Acid?

Great combo

Yes, and they work even better together.

Ceramides cushions Salicylic Acid: it hydrates and supports the barrier while the active does its work. That means less irritation and better results.

How to use them

Use them in the same routine morning or night. Apply Salicylic Acid first, then Ceramides, moving from thinnest to thickest texture. Finish with sunscreen in the morning.

  1. 1
    CleanseGentle cleanser, pat dry
  2. 2
    Salicylic Acid0.5% – 2%, wait about 1 minute
  3. 3
    Ceramidesvaries
  4. 4
    Moisturiserseal everything in

What Ceramides does

Lipids that make up about half of your skin barrier. Topping them up reduces water loss, stinging and flakiness, which makes ceramides the best friend of anyone using retinoids or acids.

Typical strength
varies
When
AM/PM
Irritation
Best for
Dry, Sensitive, Normal, Combination And Oily skin

Everything that pairs with Ceramides →

What Salicylic Acid does

An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that gets inside pores to dissolve the sebum and dead skin behind blackheads, whiteheads and breakouts. It is the go-to for oily, acne-prone skin.

Typical strength
0.5% – 2%
When
AM/PM
Irritation
Best for
Oily And Combination skin

Everything that pairs with Salicylic Acid →

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Ceramides and Salicylic Acid together?

Yes, and they work even better together. Ceramides cushions Salicylic Acid: it hydrates and supports the barrier while the active does its work. That means less irritation and better results.

Which goes first, Ceramides or Salicylic Acid?

Apply Salicylic Acid first, then Ceramides. The general rule is thinnest to thickest texture, and lowest pH first.

Should I use Ceramides in the morning or at night?

Ceramides: works morning or night. Use as your moisturiser step, morning and night. On nights with actives, you can buffer by applying a ceramide cream first.

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

Salicylic Acid: works morning or night. Use as a cleanser daily or a leave-on 2% serum 3–4 times a week. It can dry out skin, so moisturise well.

Is Ceramides with Salicylic Acid safe during pregnancy?

Neither is a known risk in normal cosmetic amounts, but guidance varies for Salicylic Acid. Check with your doctor.

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