What Works Better For Each Skin Types Niacinamide Or Salicylic Acid

A lot of people are confused between niacinamide and salicylic acid and which works best for their skin. Both have different properties and hence are suited for different skin types. To know which works best for each skin type below is the full explanation in detail.


For acne marks niacinamide works best as it is very good for pigmentation and redness, while salicylic acid is good for active acne by clearing all the pores and preventing further breakouts.

Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that helps to calm redness and irritation. Niacinamide strengthens your skin barrier by boosting collagen production and makes the protective skin barrier more strong as it aids in healing and prevents any future damage.

To get results faster use niacinamide serum or moisturizer in the morning. If you have sensitive skin use it 2-3 times a week.

In case if you are layering it with salicylic acid wait for about 30-45 minutes between applications t avoid any irritation as niacinamide increases the pH of salicylic acid, which will make it less effective.




For oily skin type neither is the best option, it totally depends on the skin concerns. Salicylic acid is a good option for oily skin that is prone to active acne because it exfoliates, removes dirt and unclogs pores.

On the other hand niacinamide is good for the acne marks and redness. If you want great results use both together as they will provide a complete approach to oily-acne prone skin.



Niacinamide is good as it soothes the skin gives hydration strengthening the skin's moisture barrier whereas salicylic acid is too drying for dry skin.

To use niacinamide apply it after cleansing and toing in the form of serum or moisturizer. Use it on slightly damp skin as it will help in absorption.

Use it twice daily as it will give long-term benefits. For the sensitive skin do a patch first apply a smaller portion on your hand first before applying entirely on face.


For combination skin type both works best as they have a mix of the skin types. To use both effectively use salicylic acid first wait for a few minutes than apply niacinamide and finish it with a good moisturizer for your skin type.

Use salicylic acid cleanser and the morning and niacinamide serum at night or vice versa, to avoid irritation. Always apply sunscreen, as salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity.


To brighten the overall skin niacinamide is better as it helps with hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide is actually is a form of vitamin B3, which improves uneven skin tone, dark spots and skin barrier function.

Niacinamide and salicylic acids are just another agents that will help improve your skin for different reasons. Being consistent in using and maintaining a good skincare routine will actually help your skin a lot better and will give results a lot faster and for long period.

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1. Is niacinamide good for blackheads?Yes, niacinamide is good for blackheads because it helps regulate sebum production, preventing clogged pores and reducing the likelihood of blackheads forming. It also improves skin texture, minimizes the appearance of pores, and strengthens the skin barrier, which helps prevent future clogs and inflammation.
2. Can niacinamide clear whiteheads?Yes, niacinamide helps with whiteheads by regulating oil production, preventing clogged pores, and reducing inflammation. By controlling excess sebum, it minimizes the factors that lead to whiteheads and other breakouts, while its anti-inflammatory properties can also help soothe existing blemishes.
3. How long until niacinamide works?The results starts to show in as little as 2-4 weeks, but significant improvements typically take 8-12 weeks of consistent, daily use. Initial benefits like improved hydration or a reduction in redness may be noticed sooner, while more visible changes in skin tone, pore size, and fine lines require longer-term application.