Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are actually quite complementary. Hyaluronic acid helps hydrate and plump the skin, while niacinamide supports skin barrier function, reduces excess oil, and helps brighten the skin tone. When used together, they provide a balanced approach to hydration and healthy-looking skin.
That said, for the best results, we suggest using hyaluronic acid first, followed by niacinamide. The order here matters because, as a rule of thumb, you should always go in order of consistency. Start with the products and ingredients with a lighter consistency and work up to a thicker consistency.
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.
Commonly Asked Questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about layering The Ordinary products, linked to primary skin concerns and types. Can I use Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide together? Yes, you can.
As a pair, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid benefit the skin in numerous ways, though the duo is most often used to help combat the visible signs of aging.
The most common adverse effects associated with hyaluronic acid filler are pain, bruising, redness, itching, and swelling. These side effects are self-limited and typically last no more than seven days.
When should I apply niacinamide? Niacinamide can also be used morning and/or night, but as it's an antioxidant and can help to control oil and treat breakouts (invisibly!), it is well-suited to a morning routine (just avoid layering it with vitamin C as the two can make each other unstable).
Both the ingredients are highly effective and potent. Hyaluronic acid serums provide hydration, while Niacinamide serum cures acne, and pores, lightens scars and pigmentation and boosts collagen production. Each ingredient has exclusive properties.
If you have dehydrated skin, use hyaluronic acid serum both in the morning and at night. In the morning, it might help hydrate your skin and prepare it for the day ahead. At night, it might help repair and rejuvenate your skin while you sleep. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration.
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.
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 could be applied on both dry or damp skin. Higher strength Niacinamide has the potential to irritate skin so best used on dry skin. If it's in combination with Hyaluronic acid it goes on damp skin.
Always make sure to follow with a moisturizer, this is a skincare must in general, but especially when using Hyaluronic Acid Serum because it locks the moisture in. But it's important to wait 30-60 seconds for the serum to absorb before following with other products.
It's an ingredient found in a number of moisturizing skin-care products as well as in certain foods and supplements like multivitamins. Can you use niacinamide every day? Yes. In fact, you can use niacinamide-containing topical products in the morning and night because it's generally a gentle ingredient.
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.
Hyaluronic acid serums are usually lightweight and absorb quickly, so you don't need to wait longer than a minute or two to apply a niacinamide cream. If both products are thick or sticky, wait until the skin absorbs the first layer to avoid mixing and diluting the products.
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.
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.
Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid
While you may not see any significant results during the first few weeks, there should be a notable difference by about 4 weeks. After 8 weeks, you should notice more hydrated, smoother, and toned skin.
10. Is Hyaluronic Acid Bad For Your Liver? In the case of patients with liver diseases, it is advised to avoid using HA as the increased levels of HA in the bloodstream can cause thrombosis. Hence, user discretion and medical supervision are advised.
What does hyaluronic acid do for skin? Long-term use of hyaluronic acid serum on your skin or in a supplement taken by mouth can improve overall skin health. It's also great for helping improve overall skin flexibility and elasticity (meaning it makes your skin more stretchy and soft).