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Is it safe to use Niacinamide serum on my active pimples?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Is it okay or safe to use Niacinamide and Salicylic acid serum even if there are active pimples present? What to do?

Kindly advise.

Answered by Dr. Misha Saghir

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir, MBBS, FCPS (Dermatology Resident) • Clinical Dermatologist & Tele-Derm Specialist • Experienced in skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns • Expertise in acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, infections, skin hair and nail disorders • Former General Practitioner with 2 years in government healthcare • Provides evidence-based, patient-centered online consultations • Practical treatment plans with clear guidance and follow-up

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Indeed, this is a very common and significant concern that comes up with acne management. Yes, it is acceptable and even recommended to use a Niacinamide and Salicylic acid serum even with active pimples, but only if the usage of it is correct and gentle. The mechanism of Salicylic acid consists in its ability to penetrate deep into the skin to unclog the pores and regulate the production of excess sebum, as well as reduce inflammation. Thus, this effect will help to speed up the healing of the pimples and avoid new breakouts.

Niacinamide works in tandem with Salicylic acid, providing a soothing effect on the skin, reducing redness, reinforcing the protective layer of the skin, and treating the post-acne marks. In particular, the serum is great for the treatment of acne-prone, irritated skin.

Nevertheless, as there are active pimples, one needs to be careful with the usage of the serum to avoid possible side effects such as dryness, peeling, and irritation, which will exacerbate the acne problem. It is enough to apply the serum once per day, preferably in the evening.

Another key consideration is having an uncomplicated skincare regimen. A cleanser should be chosen that does not foam and is gentle on the skin. Follow up the serum with a light and non-comedogenic moisturizer, and make sure to have a broad-spectrum sunscreen applied during the day, as Salicylic acid causes increased sensitivity to the sun.

Go gradually, watch the skin reaction, and don't use too many products for treating acne at once.

I hope you find my answer satisfactory. If you have any other questions, contact me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 26, 2026
Reviewed At July 14, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir, MBBS, FCPS (Dermatology Resident) • Clinical Dermatologist & Tele-Derm Specialist • Experienced in skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns • Expertise in acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, infections, skin hair and nail disorders • Former General Practitioner with 2 years in government healthcare • Provides evidence-based, patient-centered online consultations • Practical treatment plans with clear guidance and follow-up

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir, MBBS, FCPS (Dermatology Resident) • Clinical Dermatologist & Tele-Derm Specialist • Experienced in skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns • Expertise in acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, infections, skin hair and nail disorders • Former General Practitioner with 2 years in government healthcare • Provides evidence-based, patient-centered online consultations • Practical treatment plans with clear guidance and follow-up

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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