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. However, alternating them between your morning and evening skincare routine means that you can enjoy the benefits without the risk of damaging your skin.
Combining glycolic acid and lactic acid can be quite potent and is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of irritation. Both acids are effective exfoliants, and using them together can over-exfoliate the skin.
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.
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.
If you've ever questioned, “Can I use niacinamide with glycolic acid in my skincare regimen,” don't worry—they most definitely can. Both of these can be used in a single skincare routine. You have to choose the right products from the top brands and follow a healthy skin routine.
Glycolic acid and vitamin C: This combination can increase collagen production and smooth skin, but it's best to stagger application to keep skin from getting irritated.
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.
Combining glycolic acid and lactic acid can be quite potent and is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of irritation. Both acids are effective exfoliants, and using them together can over-exfoliate the skin.
However, as with all chemical exfoliants, using glycolic acid too frequently, at too high a concentration, or incorrectly can result in skin irritation or damage.
Otherwise, a good way to incorporate retinol into your beauty routine in addition to glycolic acid would be to alternate them every other night: one night using retinol, another night using a no-rinse exfoliating treatment followed by a moisturizing cream.
Yes, you can! With strategic use, the combined benefits of glycolic acid and retinol can help you attain a healthier, radiant complexion. Need help with your skincare routine? Take help from the L'Oréal Paris Skin Genius tool to get a customized skincare routine and take care of your skin like a pro.
AHAs include glycolic acid from sugar cane, lactic acid from milk, and citric acid from citrus fruits. To cease its action during a peel, glycolic acid necessitates a neutralizing agent, such as sodium bicarbonate and water.
Absolutely! In fact, these two ingredients are a skincare dream team. Glycolic acid exfoliates and renews your skin, but it can sometimes cause dryness or irritation. That's where hyaluronic acid comes in—it replenishes moisture and soothes your skin after exfoliation.
To double down on anti-aging benefits, pair glycolic acid with either lactic acid or malic acid, both of which unblock pores so that exfoliation is more effective.
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.
Niacinamide. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 and has become a well-loved skin care ingredient, as it has soothing properties, helps reduce redness and supports overall collagen production. Glycolic acid's potency can potentially dry out the skin, which is where niacinamide comes in.
As glycolic acid has a low molecular weight, it can irritate your skin. Those with sensitive skin might initially experience dry, flaky skin and mild redness. But when you layer it with niacinamide, it can lessen these possible side effects by strengthening your skin's barrier.
Hydrate and moisturise: Use hydrating products like serums or moisturisers after using glycolic acid. These aid in rehydrating and nourishing the skin. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or natural oils to help maintain a healthy skin barrier.
It is OK to use 1-2% containing glycolic acid face wash or ointments daily. The creams have a higher glycolic acid content (10% and above) and must only be used once or twice a week to avoid skin irritation. The creams with a concentration above 15% may need to be kept only for a few minutes and then wiped off.
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.
CAN YOU USE BOTH GLYCOLIC ACID AND VITAMIN C? While both glycolic acid and vitamin C are skincare superstars, using them together requires a bit of caution, and it's generally not recommended to use them at the same time. If you're not sure about your routine, it's best to avoid using them in unison.