It is said that your skin needs some time between each ingredient that you apply to let it completely absorbed into the skin to make it work efficiently. We can safely say that niacinamide and glycolic acid can work if you choose to use these together but after a gap of at least 30 minutes.
4. Use these ingredients 30 minutes apart. If you are planning to use niacinamide and glycolic acid on the same day, here's what you can do - you can layer these active ingredients maintaining a gap of at least 30 minutes between the application time.
Glycolic acid works decently with ceramides niacinmide and of course hyaluronic acid for starters you can gradually add other steps to your routine.
What NOT to mix with Glycolic Acid. Retinol, other AHAs/BHAs, Vitamin C: Using these ingredients alongside Glycolic Acid in the same routine could irritate the skin.
Niacinamide generally works well with most products, but it's best not to combine it with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the same routine as it can cause irritation. Additionally, avoid using it with strong exfoliants or retinoids in high concentrations to prevent skin sensitivity. For more, check out my Quora Profile.
Niacinamide works well with other skincare ingredients, including retinol and hyaluronic acid. However, some ingredients, like vitamin C, may interact negatively with niacinamide. Therefore, it's recommended to use products containing these ingredients at different times of the day or on alternate days.
Niacinamide and vitamin C
This combination sparks a lot of debate among skincare experts. Some say that since both niacinamide and vitamin C contain antioxidants, they cancel each other out and might even lead to irritation.
Glycolic acid and niacinamide.
Indeed, niacinamide used with AHA's like glycolic acid and lactic acid has no effect and can even cause redness. Since niacinamide has a pH of about 5-7, it can actually increase the lower pH of glycolic acid, which is about 3-4, and negate its properties.
Because Glycolic Acid exfoliates the top layer of the skin, we would recommend avoiding any other products that also promote skin cell turnover. This would include ingredients such as Retinoids and Copper Peptides. Combining multiple resurfacing products may increase the chances of developing skin sensitivities.
Don't use vitamin C: Niacinamide and vitamin C can cause skin irritation and discoloration when used together, so it's best to use them at different times of the day. Don't overuse: While niacinamide is generally well-tolerated, overusing it can cause redness and irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin.
Glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid: Since hyaluronic acid loads up skin with moisture, it makes for an excellent pairing with glycolic acid. Look for a product that combines both for easiest application, though you can also layer serums.
Bear in mind that you can have more than one Niacinamide product in your skincare routine. After cleaning and drying your skin, you can apply a Niacinamide toner, then a Niacinamide serum, or a face cream. What we emphasise most is the order of layering of the product.
Can I use glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid and niacinamide? The short answer is, yes you can, the longer one is you can use all three ingredients together if you apply them in the correct order. By this I mean knowing the best time of day to use which ingredient to gain optimal results.
After glycolic acid, use a hydrating serum. Hyaluronic acid, again, is a top pick. It binds to water and lubricates those parched skin cells like a mini oasis. Watch as it fluffs up your skin by infusing it with moisture, rounding out the effects of the glycolic acid.
It's suitable for all skin types and fits easily into your existing skincare routine. As for when to use niacinamide serum, we typically recommend applying products in order of consistency. That means your serum should come after toner, but before richer lotions or creams.
Can I use glycolic acid with retinol and niacinamide? Yes, you can, all three of these ingredients deliver impressive results to the skin. Understanding the best way of layering them will not only ensure they are able to perform on the skin but will also prevent any irritation or reactions.
Retinol, other AHAs/BHAs, Vitamin C: Using these ingredients alongside Glycolic Acid in the same routine could irritate the skin. However, alternating them between your morning and evening skincare routine means that you can enjoy the benefits without the risk of damaging your skin.
Acne-Prone Skin: Glycolic acid exfoliates and prevents clogged pores, while niacinamide calms inflammation and regulates oil. Oily Skin: Niacinamide controls oil production, and glycolic acid smooths rough texture. Combination Skin: Use glycolic acid on areas with roughness and niacinamide for hydration and redness.
The synergistic effect of using glycolic acid with hyaluronic acid enhances hydration and reduces irritation, making them a suitable combination even for sensitive skin.
Niacinamide, in and of itself, is considered safe to use as frequently as twice a day. So, if you find a niacinamide toner, serum, or moisturizer you love, feel free to incorporate it into your routine both morning and night.
Retinoids and Glycolic Acid
Retinoids (including retinol) are fantastic for boosting cell turnover and fighting aging. However, pairing them with glycolic acid is like inviting two energetic party crashers into a small room—they can overwhelm your skin.
DON'T MIX: AHA/BHA and niacinamide
Niacinamide is used to treat hyperpigmentation and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants. To understand why niacinamide shouldn't be mixed with AHAs and BHAs, you need to consider pH.
You can (and should) consider layering niacinamide and retinol in the same routine, especially if you have sensitive skin. Retinol is a well-known ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with NIACINAMIDE. Niacinamide might slow blood clotting. Taking niacinamide along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.