A question we get often is, “can niacinamide be mixed with other actives?” The answer is: yes. The ingredient pairs well with most actives. The possibilities of combinations are endless, but here are some of our favorites: THE SCIENCE BEHIND IT…
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.
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Niacinamide and vitamin C are a dynamic duo for brightening the complexion and reducing the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. This combination leverages vitamin C's potent antioxidant properties and niacinamide's ability to improve skin's resilience and reduce inflammation.
According to Dr. Dray you can use niacinamide with any ingredient, including vitamin C, AHA/BHA, and retinoids.
As a general rule of thumb, niacinamide can be combined with other ingredients. That's why it's found in many skincare products, like skin peptides, and can easily be incorporated into an existing routine.
Retinoids don't combine well with AHAs, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or vitamin C due to potential stability issues and skin sensitivities, and soap-based cleansers can also reduce vitamin C's skin benefits.
When layered, retinol and niacinamide have a direct compensation benefit, as retinol stimulates the skin while niacinamide helps strengthen. As they both have a neutral base and are neither acidic or alkaline, the ingredients can also be combined in a formula, such as the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum.
For general skin tone correction, a niacinamide concentration between 4-5% is often effective and well-tolerated by most individuals. For those looking to tackle more pronounced hyperpigmentation, a higher concentration of 10% may be beneficial, though it's important to monitor the skin for any signs of irritation.
In general, niacinamide is considered suitable for all skin types and, per the Cleveland Clinic, is rarely associated with side effects. Still, as with any skincare ingredient, it's best to introduce it to your skincare routine slowly to help minimize the potential for redness or irritation.
There are 82 drugs known to interact with niacinamide, along with 4 disease interactions. Of the total drug interactions, 7 are major, 74 are moderate, and 1 is minor.
How often should you use niacinamide? For optimal benefits, we recommend using niacinamide either daily or twice a day. Whether you apply niacinamide once or twice a day will depend on your skin type, skin concerns and which other ingredients are contained within your morning and night routines.
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.
Take for example Vitamin C and Niacinamide - two active ingredients we don't recommend using together in the same routine. The key word here is routine. You can use Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% in the AM routine and Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% in the PM routine -- just not together in the morning or evening.
As the percentages suggest, 10% niacinamide contains a higher concentration and strength than 5%. With twice the concentration of their 5% counterparts, 10% niacinamide products offer enhanced delivery of nutrients to skin cells.
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.
Does niacinamide cause pimples? Niacinamide does not cause any pimples as it is gentle on most people of all skin types. But it might irritate if it is used in larger quantities.
Niacinamide is possibly safe when taken in doses up to 900-1500 mg daily. It might cause side effects such as stomach upset, gas, dizziness, headache, and rash. When applied to the skin: Niacinamide is possibly safe. Niacinamide cream might cause mild burning, itching, or redness.
Best for Sensitive Skin: First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum, $42. Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula's Choice Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment, $52. Best for Mature Skin: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex, $230. Best for Dark Spots: La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Corrector Serum, $45.
Applying sunscreen at the end of your skincare routine is a must. Whether you are using a 5% niacinamide or a 10% niacinamide, ensure to follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen generously to avoid sun damage.
Avoid using harsh, alcohol-based toners, over-exfoliating your skin, and using heavy, oil-based products. These can exacerbate the imbalances in your skin, leading to issues in both the oily and dry areas. Remember, skincare is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another.