Achieving radiant and healthy skin involves more than just applying various skincare products. Combining skincare ingredients is crucial to maximizing their benefits and avoiding potential conflicts.
Knowing what skincare ingredients not to mix might save your skin from negative consequences.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of combining skincare ingredients, drawing insights from dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts.
Retinol and AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) – Skincare Ingredients Not to Mix
Can you use retinol and alpha hydroxy acid together? One of the classic combinations that often raises eyebrows is retinol or retinoid with alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). Both ingredients are potent individually and have benefits for the skin. But retinol and aha together can lead to excessive dryness and irritation. The reason lies in their shared goal of accelerating skin cell turnover. To play it safe, use retinol at night and AHA in the morning, or opt for a product formulated explicitly with both (it might be the safe formulation with retinol and aha compatibility in mind). Alternatively, using the skin cycling principle, alternate the evenings when you use these ingredients – use retinol in the PM routine one day and glycolic acid the other day. But if you’re a seasoned user, that means that your skin has already gotten used to both ingredients – this skincare activities combination is not a “never do.”
Retinol and Benzoyl Peroxide
Can you use retinol and benzoyl peroxide together?
If you’re dealing with acne, it’s essential to be cautious when combining retinol or retinoid with benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize and degrade certain forms of topical vitamin A, rendering the combination less effective.
The same rule applies to whether I can use benzoyl peroxide with tretinoin. The answer is no.
An exception is adapalene, a stable form of topical vitamin A, which can be used with benzoyl peroxide. Nonetheless, retinol and benzoyl peroxide are irritating, so it is recommended to use them separately – retinol in the PM routine and benzoyl peroxide in the morning.
As always, don’t forget to use SPF 50+.
Retinol and Vitamin C
Can you use retinol and vitamin C together?
Vitamin C and retinol are powerhouse ingredients but require careful consideration. Vitamin C and retinol can indeed be used together, offering a synergistic effect on collagen production.
Nonetheless, if vitamin C is in the form of irritating ascorbic acid, it is advised to apply Vitamin C and retinol at different times.
To use retinol and vitamin C in the same skincare routine, choose a milder form of vitamin C. For simplicity, you can use a product that effectively combines both skincare active ingredients, e.g., eye cream with retinol and vitamin C, or vitamin C and retinol serum—in this case, they are most likely designed to be less irritating.
Retinol and Salicylic Acid
Can you use retinol and salicylic acid together?
Combining retinol with salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), may seem like a strategic move for acne-prone skin. However, their potential to cause dryness makes this combination tricky. To minimize risks, use salicylic acid in the morning and retinol at night, allowing your skin to benefit from each ingredient without irritation. Alternatively, as skin cycling advises, alternate the evenings when you use these ingredients.
Peptides and Retinol
Can you use peptides and retinol together?
YES! Peptides and retinol can complement each other in an anti-aging skincare routine. While both contribute to collagen synthesis, using them together may enhance their benefits. Start by incorporating one at a time and monitor your skin’s response. If well-tolerated, you can introduce both into your routine.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid
Can you use benzoyl peroxide with salicylic acid?
Combining benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid is generally considered safe, and they can be used together in a skincare routine to address acne. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
- Both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can dry and irritate the skin, especially when used in higher concentrations.
- If you use both products in the same routine, apply benzoyl peroxide first. Benzoyl peroxide can be less stable and may be less effective if applied over salicylic acid.
Consider starting with lower concentrations of benzoyl peroxide (2.5%) and salicylic acid to minimize the risk of irritation. Besides, using them in separate routines is advised to avoid the risk of irritation.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Vitamin C
Сan you mix benzoyl peroxide and vitamin С?
This is another example of skincare Ingredients Not to Mix. Benzoyl Peroxide and Vitamin C might oxidize each other; vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can be sensitive to oxidation when exposed to certain conditions, including high concentrations of benzoyl peroxide.
Besides, some individuals may experience skin dryness or irritation when using benzoyl peroxide and vitamin C together, especially if their skin is sensitive.
Copper Peptides and Vitamin C
Can you use vitamin C and copper peptides together?
While copper peptides and vitamin C both have anti-aging properties, their combination may pose challenges. Copper can potentially accelerate the degradation of vitamin C. If using separate products, incorporate vitamin C in the morning and copper peptides in the evening to mitigate potential conflicts.
Vitamin C and Niacinamide
Can you mix niacinamide and vitamin C?
Debates have circulated about combining vitamin C and niacinamide. Contrary to concerns about their compatibility, studies suggest that these ingredients can enhance each other’s effects when applied together.
Read more about Niacinamide in skincare.
Niacinamide and Various Actives
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, proves versatile and can be comfortably paired with most skincare ingredients. However, maintaining niacinamide concentrations between three to five percent is advisable, as higher concentrations might be irritating. Though niacinamide, actually, makes other skincare ingredients more tolerable. Niacinamide is also a perfect ingredient for increasing ceramide production. (what are ceramides, and why are they important? Read in Ceramide Moisturizer)
AHA and BHA
Combining alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) with beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) caters to different skincare needs. While AHAs focus on brightening, BHAs penetrate deeper into oil glands, making them a potential powerhouse when combined.
In conclusion, experimenting with skincare ingredients can be exciting, but it’s essential to approach it with caution. Prioritize understanding your skin’s needs, start with a basic routine, and gradually introduce new ingredients. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to a skincare regimen that promotes optimal results while maintaining skin health.
These active skincare ingredients can be found in face wash, face toners, moisturizers, sunscreens, and serums. So check the ingredients before adding something in your skincare routine and use this guide for better managing your list of AM and PM skincare routine.
And feel free to comment and ask any questions!
Are you overwhelmed by all these names? Read about Beginner Basic Skincare Routine
Frequently Asked Questions
What skincare actives not to mix?
Skincare actives are ingredients that specifically affect the skin, such as exfoliating, brightening, or anti-aging. Some skincare actives not to mix are retinol and benzoyl peroxide, vitamin C and copper peptides, and benzoyl peroxide and vitamin C, retinol and ascorbic acid (a form of vitamin C).
What facial serums do not mix?
Facial serums are concentrated products that deliver active ingredients to the skin. Some facial serums not to mix contain retinol and vitamin C, retinol and ascorbic acid, vitamin C and copper peptides, and benzoyl peroxide and vitamin C.
How do I know if my skin is over-exfoliated or irritated by using too many active ingredients?
Recognizing over-exfoliation or irritation from active ingredients is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Redness and Sensitivity: If your skin becomes excessively red, sensitive, or tight after using multiple active products, it might be a sign of over-exfoliation.
- Flakiness and Dryness: Over-exfoliation can lead to excessive dryness and flakiness. If your skin feels parched and lacks moisture, reconsider your routine.
- Increased Breakouts: Paradoxically, overuse of active ingredients can worsen acne. If you notice more breakouts, it’s time to reassess.
What are some examples of products that combine multiple active ingredients safely and effectively?
Some skincare products thoughtfully combine active ingredients to maximize benefits while minimizing potential conflicts. Here are a few examples:
- Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum: This combination provides antioxidant protection, brightens skin, and boosts collagen production.
- Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Niacinamide helps with oil control and pore refinement, while hyaluronic acid is a lightweight hydrating ingredient.
- Retinol + Peptides Cream: Retinol promotes cell turnover, and peptides support collagen synthesis.
How do I choose the best form of vitamin C for my skin type and concerns?
Selecting the suitable vitamin C form depends on your skin type and goals:
- L-Ascorbic Acid (Pure Vitamin C): Ideal for brightening and collagen synthesis. Best for normal to oily skin.
- Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP): Gentler than L-ascorbic acid, suitable for sensitive skin. Good for brightening and hydration.
- Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP): Stable and less irritating. Effective for acne-prone skin.
- Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Ascorbate): Oil-soluble, great for dry skin. Targets pigmentation and fine lines.
Remember to patch-test new products and introduce them gradually into your routine to avoid adverse reactions.