Combining hyaluronic acid and retinol is highly recommended for every retinol-infused routine. A popular method of using the two ingredients is called 'sandwiching'. This refers to layering your retinol product between moisturisers – starting with a regular formula and finishing with a thick textured product.
Don't combine retinol with alpha or beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, vitamin C, and other retinols or retinoids. Don't skip sunscreen Retinols are usually used as part of nighttime skincare routines, but even when they're applied at night, they can lead to lingering sun sensitivity.
Do Layer Retinol with Hyaluronic Acid. Retinol and hyaluronic acid are safe and effective when layered and used together. Hyaluronic acid, found naturally in our bodies, is a powerful humectant, which means that it keeps skin hydrated and plump.
The answer is a resounding yes. The two actives help enhance each other's efficacy, making it a winning duo for an even tone, blemish-free complexion. Before we learn how the combination of Niacinamide and Retinol benefits the skin, let's refresh our basics on the two actives.
It is not unusual to find a combination of niacinamide and retinol in a single skincare product, but you can use niacinamide and retinol as separate steps in a consistent routine. If you're using separate products, it is recommended that you apply retinol first then move forward with niacinamide application.
The answer is yes. The combination of these two ingredients can help you treat multiple skin concerns and give you a more youthful, radiant complexion. However, it's important to use these ingredients in moderation and in the correct order to avoid any adverse effects.
If you're looking to boost hydration, layer your retinol product of choice with a hyaluronic acid serum, which will lock moisture into the skin. On the other hand, if you want to give your skin an antioxidant boost, you can use a CoQ10 serum alongside retinol.
Combining hyaluronic acid and retinol is highly recommended for every retinol-infused routine. A popular method of using the two ingredients is called 'sandwiching'. This refers to layering your retinol product between moisturisers – starting with a regular formula and finishing with a thick textured product.
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.
Do use a hyaluronic acid serum or a moisturiser after retinol application to hydrate the 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.
Apply retinol in a thin layer to your entire face (be careful not to get it in your mouth, nose and eyes). You should use a dose that's about the size of a pea. For the first couple weeks of treatment, apply retinol only every other day. Finish with a facial moisturizer that won't clog your pores (noncomedogenic).
It's important to always start with clean, dry skin to make the most out of using retinol. Retinol penetrates the skin better and is more effective when applied after gently cleansing the skin with a mild face wash and toning it but before any moisturizer, since it acts as a treatment.
AHAs and BHAs are exfoliating, which can dry the skin and cause further irritation if your skin-care routine already includes retinol. As for benzoyl peroxide and retinol, they're not recommended to use together. "They can literally cancel each other out, rendering them less effective," said Dr.
Niacinamide. Niacinamide (aka vitamin B3) is one of those beloved ingredients that work well with all other skincare actives—and retinol is no exception. If your skincare goals include anti-aging and treating acne, then niacinamide is a great ingredient to pair with retinol.
In short, the retinol sandwiching technique is as follows:
Apply a layer of moisturiser to damp skin. Allow this to dry completely. Apply your retinol. After giving retinol time to absorb, finish your skincare routine with a second layer of moisturiser.
So, if you're wondering 'can I use niacinamide with retinol? ', the simple answer is yes. Niacinamide and retinol have a synergistic relationship, so you can use them together as long as you're familiar with the basics of how to layer serums and ingredients.
To be specific, you cannot mix retinol with AHAs (Glycolic Acid Toner, Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid Treatment, BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum, PHA Toner.
The Best Moisturizers to Use After Retinol
Hyaluronic acid is the ultimate hydrator, she says, while products with ceramides help restore the skin barrier and lock in moisture. She also suggests using a formula that's fragrance-free (to prevent further irritation) and non-comedogenic (to avoid clogging pores).
The answer is a resounding YES! The combination of Vitamin C and Retinol in a skincare regimen can help you achieve glowing, healthy-looking skin, while improving the look of dark spots and uneven skin tone, as well as visibly improving signs of skin aging including fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness.
In the evening start with applying niacinamide serum to help soothe and strengthen your skin barrier. After the niacinamide has been absorbed, apply your retinol product to promote cell turnover and reduce fine lines. Finally, apply hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and hydrate your skin.